Mohammad Alam | University of Dhaka, Bangladesh (original) (raw)
Papers by Mohammad Alam
Philosophy and Progress, 2024
The formative stage of Cao Dai religion is closely connected to Vietnamese traditional myths, tal... more The formative stage of Cao Dai religion is closely connected to Vietnamese traditional myths, tales, doctrines and practices that are mostly transmitted orally down to the centuries. At the same time, Caodaism constantly maintained its links with religio-cultural elements of Chinese, Indian and Western origin. Due to this fact, Caodaism, with its synthesis of Eastern, Southeast Asian, Indian and Western elements specially from indigenous folk tales, Buddhism, Hinduism, Taoism, Confucianism, and Christianity, appeared as the religion of an acclaimed small group in 1926. This paper aims to examine how Caodaism evolved by a long-term process of Western and Asian acculturation. Thus, first to be considered is the significant role of socio
Bibliotheque de Humanisme et Renaissance |, 2024
Needless to say, religion plays an important role in international relations and global security.... more Needless to say, religion plays an important role in international relations and global security. This is not just a theoretical point. It is therefore essential to thoroughly explore the significant role that religion can play in global security. Sociologically, religion has always had a great impact on our society from the past (McGuire, 1997) that is still relevant in the contemporary world, especially in terms of international relations, religious diplomacy, global security and development. This paper explores the impacts of religion on international relations, including its effects on global security and development, and the influence of religious diplomacy on politically influential nations. The study aims to explore the interconnections between global development, security, diplomacy, and religion. Additionally, it examines the roles of international organizations with religious foundations. Methodologically, this paper employed a textual analysis method, consulting data collected from published journals and books on religion and international affairs, as well as various online and print media sources, videos, and news articles. The paper concludes by discussing how religion is being utilized as a tool for international cooperation.
Journal of Daesoon Thought and the Religions of East Asia The Daesoon Academy of Sciences, 2023
The concept of interfaith harmony is one of the key issues for discussion in this contemporary wo... more The concept of interfaith harmony is one of the key issues for discussion in this contemporary world. It has multifaceted implications that range from pedagogical realms to global policy making. Here we focus on the basic concepts of interfaith harmony from Sikh and Cao Dai perspectives in order to address their viewpoints in regard to promoting culture of Peace and Understanding. Although these religions are new as compared to the existing living religions of the world, they found their new identity in the history of world religions for their unique concepts of interfaith harmony. In this article, the concept of interfaith harmony has been analyzed from two perspectives such as theological and socio-historical. For a systematic understanding of the subject matter, it has been categorized into three subpoints; unity of God, unity of religions and unity of humanity. Methodologically, the qualitative methodological framework of the proposed research is descriptive in nature. Thus, the present research has been primarily conducted by using secondary sources, although the crucial information is collected from primary sources such as the sacred texts of Sikhism and Caodaism. Since this study is done considering the social, political and religious contexts of India and Vietnam, it can contribute to the understanding of the nature of interfaith harmony in South and South
Journal of the Asiatic Society of Bangladesh, Humanities, 2023
This paper proposes a process of synthesis based on Chinese socio-historical context in order to ... more This paper proposes a process of synthesis based on Chinese socio-historical context in order to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the synthesis of three major religious traditions of East Asia such as Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism. At the same time, to be considered is the syncretic approach through which these religions have attained popularity throughout all Eastern and Far Eastern parts of Asia. Thus, in order to make a reasonable justification for the current study, an attempt is made to explore how these religions have appeared to be more or less similar to each other in case of their beliefs and practices. The purpose of the current paper is to decipher the points where and how these three religions interact with each other in terms of belief and practice that is based on a cultural bridge between China and other East Asian countries. This paper offers an overview of the harmonious synthesis of Taoism, Confucianism and Buddhism in the matrix of Chinese culture. In conclusion, it points out a new mode of syncretism which can be called "Hybridization"-a new insight into the process of synthesis.
The Dhaka University Studies, 2011
One of the recent developments in peace building and conflict resolution is the phenomenon of pea... more One of the recent developments in peace building and conflict resolution is the phenomenon of peace and reconciliation process that is rooted in the dialogue. Therefore, diplomacy and large-scale peacekeeping are no longer enough. The quest for reconciliation through a bipolar process has become an indispensable part of peace building and harmony. In this paper an attempt has been made to examine particular conceptual aspects related to the dialogical capacity of reconciliation and propose an alternative approach to interreligious dialogue.
Philosophy and Progress, 2007
The theological framework of Dao Cao Dai, also known as the Way of Cao Dai or Caodaism, is firmly... more The theological framework of Dao Cao Dai, also known as the Way of Cao Dai or Caodaism, is firmly grounded in three fundamental concepts of Unity: the Unity of God, the Unity of Religion, and the Unity of Mankind. This article explores a specific facet of these concepts—the Unity of God by emphasizing the mystical lens through which Caodaism nurtures the unity of mankind and the unity of religion. The current discussion, therefore, delves into the profound significance of the Unity of God within this spiritual tradition. To facilitate a comprehensive understanding, the article begins with a concise introduction titled "Caodaism in a Nutshell," providing a contextual backdrop for the ensuing exploration of Duc Cao Dai.
The CDR Journal, 2010
Bahá'í Faith is claimed to be nothing less than a new and independent religion and Bahá'ís view ... more Bahá'í Faith is claimed to be nothing less than a new and independent religion and Bahá'ís view Baháʼu'lláh as one of the most recent in the succession of divine messengers. In this sense, they believe that Baháʼu'lláh’s life, work, and influence parallel that of Abraham, Krishna, Moses, Zoroaster, Buddha, Christ, and Muhammad (S.M.). The central theme of Baháʼu'lláh’s message is that of unity and oneness. First, God is one. Second, all of the world’s great religions are also one and third, human beings as creations of one God, are also one people. These essential principles of Bahá'í Faith very implicitly exhibit the characteristics of an independent religion. Thus this article offers an understanding of Bahá'í Faith that has left its own mark in history and how it has grown from an obscure movement in the Middle East to a widespread religion.
The Dhaka University Studies, 2011
Comparative religion is an academic field that examines and analyzes the various religions practi... more Comparative religion is an academic field that examines and analyzes the various religions practiced around the world. It does so through a historical, critical, and comparative lens, using scientific and historical methods to understand these belief systems. This branch of study seeks to explore the similarities, differences, and relationships between different religions. Comparative religion is not primarily concerned with determining the ultimate truth or validity of these religions. Instead, it focuses on the objective study and analysis of religious practices, beliefs, and their cultural and historical contexts. In essence, it aims to understand and compare various religions without making judgments about which one is more valid or rigorous than another.
Journal of Sociology , 2017
The purpose of this paper is to assess the significance of an objective examination of religion w... more The purpose of this paper is to assess the significance of an objective examination of religion within a dialogical framework in fostering common threads of truth among various belief systems. The analysis takes into account points of convergence across different religions to shed light on shared truths. By emphasizing these shared beliefs, the paper seeks to facilitate the acquisition of values such as love, compassion, human dignity, empathy, and equality among followers of diverse faiths, ultimately discouraging violent activities.This investigation aims to illustrate how recognizing common elements of religious truth can foster mutual trust and understanding, thereby promoting interreligious harmony and unity. To achieve this objective, we undertake a comprehensive exploration of both major and minor world religions.
The Arts Faculty Journal, 2018
The current paper introduces Sikhism as a distinct cultural entity characterized by specific valu... more The current paper introduces Sikhism as a distinct cultural entity characterized by specific values. It endeavors to underscore the undeniable significance of Sikhism in Indian society. This socio-religious movement's role in combating injustice and prejudices is a central focus of this paper. Overall, this paper offers intriguing and innovative perspectives on individual worth and responsibility, as well as the role of personal identity in society. These elevated viewpoints encompass various aspects of human life and, in turn, endorse the concept of humanism within Sikhism.
Department of World Religions and Culture, University of Dhaka, 2022
It can be argued that the significance of religious studies in promoting interfaith harmony is un... more It can be argued that the significance of religious studies in promoting interfaith harmony is undeniable. It is worth emphasizing that the Department of World Religions and Culture at the University of Dhaka, along with the Centre for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue (CIID), has played a pivotal role in extending interfaith education and related activities. This chapter will focus on the pivotal role of the Department of World Religions and Culture at the University of Dhaka in fostering interreligious harmony.
Our exploration will revolve around the understanding of peace in the context of harmony and the opportunities such a perspective can offer in the pursuit of national peace and tranquility. Consequently, this chapter aims to contribute to current research by delving into communal harmony and other related issues. To this end, we will address the following questions: What is the Department's vision for communal harmony? How and why is the department actively engaged in promoting communal harmony? Furthermore, in discussing the necessity of establishing the Department of World Religions and Culture at the University of Dhaka, we will highlight communal harmony and interfaith dialogue as crucial topics for consideration. Methodologically, we employed a critical discourse analysis approach to elucidate the connection between communal harmony and interfaith dialogue, tolerance, and peace. In conclusion, this chapter underscores that a peaceful, harmonious, and sustainable future hinges on laying the groundwork for dialogue and understanding, particularly among children and youth.
Journal of Sociology , 2022
New religions have been especially appealing to people in a rapidly changing society. Conservativ... more New religions have been especially appealing to people in a rapidly changing society. Conservative and traditional moral values are often articulated in such a changing society. In a changing Japanese society, conservative and traditional moral values are often articulated; modes of hopes, understanding and meaning are provided; meaningful teaching and promises of salvation for people are offered. It should be mentioned that the various Japanese traditional ways of religious practices, such as magical healing, spirit possessions, and the gaining of worldly benefits, are the standard features of almost all of the New Religious Movements in Japan. This article contributes to the discussion on the background of New Religious Movements, the meaning of NMRs, their standard features, and persistent themes from a Japanese perspective. Thus, this paper proceeds by presenting some of the different socio-historical contexts based on which new religious movements emerged. It is an attempt of the current paper that can help us explain and evaluate the socio-historical facts of the rise of New Religious Movements in Japan. In addition, the current paper presents how New Religious Movements demonstrate their magnetic attraction for the ordinary people in Japan and create a new panorama providing the opportunity of being treated in a particular way. Finally, as for implication, this paper gives importance to some crucial issues that focus on further study of religion in Japan from different approaches in future that cannot be avoided the significant problems of democratisation, secularisation, and atheism in Japan. Keywords New Religious Movements. Persistent Themes. New Panorama. Democratisation. Secularisation. Organisational development. Multiplicity of religions .
Japanese Religion, in general, refers to the multiplicity of religions in Japan. Different religi... more Japanese Religion, in general, refers to the multiplicity of religions in Japan. Different religious traditions coexist in Japan for centuries after centuries without breaking interreligious harmony among them. The present work especially focuses the Traditional Japanese Religions as major elements of culture that are basically a mixture of folk religions, early Shinto, Confucianism, Daoism and Buddhism. Shinto has been the indigenous tradition for over two thousand years until it was synthesized with foreign elements. Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism have profoundly influenced the spiritual and socio-political life of the Japanese since 6 th century AD. These religious traditions have long met, interacted and influenced each other and together formed the religious and cultural life of the
The current paper brings forward the concept of religious diversity primarily for two reasons. Fi... more The current paper brings forward the concept of religious diversity primarily for two reasons. First, this paper proposes a brief overview of religious diversity in order to promote understanding on what diversity is and why. Thus, in this paper, an attempt is made to illuminate the concept of diversity in general and represent pro-active pluralistic interpretations from the perspective of religious diversity in particular. Second, this highlighting of religious diversity, in this current study, suggests the probable effective role of teachers' professionalism in creating diversity awareness in the tender minds of the school-going students in Bangladesh. This, in particular, enables the researchers to clarify the issue in a best possible way so that they can suggest some effective teaching strategies for teachers' professionalism with regard to religious diversity. Thus, in order to deal with the current problem, considerable attention has been given to the necessity of the education of religious diversity in schools toward promoting interreligious harmony in a pluralistic society like Bangladesh.
Special Issue: Religious Studies in South Asia: The Dhaka Initiative, 2011
In just over 150 years, the adherents to Bahai faith have grown from an obscure movement in the M... more In just over 150 years, the adherents to Bahai faith have grown
from an obscure movement in the Middle East to a widespread independent
world religious tradition. The global scope of Bahai faith is mirrored in the
composition of its membership. Representing a cross-section of humanity,
Bahais come from virtually every nation, ethnic group, culture, profession,
and social and economic background. About six million followers of the faith
reside in more than 100,000 localities around the world and represent more
than 2,100 different ethnic groups. This essay reviews the history of how
Bahai faith came to be accepted in eastern Bengal and provides a sketch of
current distribution, organization and activities of Bahais in Bangladesh.
Philosophy and Progress
This paper evaluates an ancient system of cosmology as a part of phenomenology of religion that i... more This paper evaluates an ancient system of cosmology as a part of phenomenology of religion that is intrinsic to ancient Chinese philosophic attitude toward life. The ideas of the dynamic balance of opposites i.e. yin and yang duality, the supernatural force (the Tao) relating to the gradual development of events through a process of formulation, and thereby, acceptance of the inevitability of change are taken under consideration. In Chinese tradition, all forms of change are regarded as expressions of the interaction of two auxiliary forces (controlled by the Tao), the yin and the yang, between which equilibrium and harmony are assumed, as well as conflict and opposition. The yin-yang principles are regarded as the two major elements of Chinese cosmology: yin, being the female
Philosophy and Progress, 2024
The formative stage of Cao Dai religion is closely connected to Vietnamese traditional myths, tal... more The formative stage of Cao Dai religion is closely connected to Vietnamese traditional myths, tales, doctrines and practices that are mostly transmitted orally down to the centuries. At the same time, Caodaism constantly maintained its links with religio-cultural elements of Chinese, Indian and Western origin. Due to this fact, Caodaism, with its synthesis of Eastern, Southeast Asian, Indian and Western elements specially from indigenous folk tales, Buddhism, Hinduism, Taoism, Confucianism, and Christianity, appeared as the religion of an acclaimed small group in 1926. This paper aims to examine how Caodaism evolved by a long-term process of Western and Asian acculturation. Thus, first to be considered is the significant role of socio
Bibliotheque de Humanisme et Renaissance |, 2024
Needless to say, religion plays an important role in international relations and global security.... more Needless to say, religion plays an important role in international relations and global security. This is not just a theoretical point. It is therefore essential to thoroughly explore the significant role that religion can play in global security. Sociologically, religion has always had a great impact on our society from the past (McGuire, 1997) that is still relevant in the contemporary world, especially in terms of international relations, religious diplomacy, global security and development. This paper explores the impacts of religion on international relations, including its effects on global security and development, and the influence of religious diplomacy on politically influential nations. The study aims to explore the interconnections between global development, security, diplomacy, and religion. Additionally, it examines the roles of international organizations with religious foundations. Methodologically, this paper employed a textual analysis method, consulting data collected from published journals and books on religion and international affairs, as well as various online and print media sources, videos, and news articles. The paper concludes by discussing how religion is being utilized as a tool for international cooperation.
Journal of Daesoon Thought and the Religions of East Asia The Daesoon Academy of Sciences, 2023
The concept of interfaith harmony is one of the key issues for discussion in this contemporary wo... more The concept of interfaith harmony is one of the key issues for discussion in this contemporary world. It has multifaceted implications that range from pedagogical realms to global policy making. Here we focus on the basic concepts of interfaith harmony from Sikh and Cao Dai perspectives in order to address their viewpoints in regard to promoting culture of Peace and Understanding. Although these religions are new as compared to the existing living religions of the world, they found their new identity in the history of world religions for their unique concepts of interfaith harmony. In this article, the concept of interfaith harmony has been analyzed from two perspectives such as theological and socio-historical. For a systematic understanding of the subject matter, it has been categorized into three subpoints; unity of God, unity of religions and unity of humanity. Methodologically, the qualitative methodological framework of the proposed research is descriptive in nature. Thus, the present research has been primarily conducted by using secondary sources, although the crucial information is collected from primary sources such as the sacred texts of Sikhism and Caodaism. Since this study is done considering the social, political and religious contexts of India and Vietnam, it can contribute to the understanding of the nature of interfaith harmony in South and South
Journal of the Asiatic Society of Bangladesh, Humanities, 2023
This paper proposes a process of synthesis based on Chinese socio-historical context in order to ... more This paper proposes a process of synthesis based on Chinese socio-historical context in order to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the synthesis of three major religious traditions of East Asia such as Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism. At the same time, to be considered is the syncretic approach through which these religions have attained popularity throughout all Eastern and Far Eastern parts of Asia. Thus, in order to make a reasonable justification for the current study, an attempt is made to explore how these religions have appeared to be more or less similar to each other in case of their beliefs and practices. The purpose of the current paper is to decipher the points where and how these three religions interact with each other in terms of belief and practice that is based on a cultural bridge between China and other East Asian countries. This paper offers an overview of the harmonious synthesis of Taoism, Confucianism and Buddhism in the matrix of Chinese culture. In conclusion, it points out a new mode of syncretism which can be called "Hybridization"-a new insight into the process of synthesis.
The Dhaka University Studies, 2011
One of the recent developments in peace building and conflict resolution is the phenomenon of pea... more One of the recent developments in peace building and conflict resolution is the phenomenon of peace and reconciliation process that is rooted in the dialogue. Therefore, diplomacy and large-scale peacekeeping are no longer enough. The quest for reconciliation through a bipolar process has become an indispensable part of peace building and harmony. In this paper an attempt has been made to examine particular conceptual aspects related to the dialogical capacity of reconciliation and propose an alternative approach to interreligious dialogue.
Philosophy and Progress, 2007
The theological framework of Dao Cao Dai, also known as the Way of Cao Dai or Caodaism, is firmly... more The theological framework of Dao Cao Dai, also known as the Way of Cao Dai or Caodaism, is firmly grounded in three fundamental concepts of Unity: the Unity of God, the Unity of Religion, and the Unity of Mankind. This article explores a specific facet of these concepts—the Unity of God by emphasizing the mystical lens through which Caodaism nurtures the unity of mankind and the unity of religion. The current discussion, therefore, delves into the profound significance of the Unity of God within this spiritual tradition. To facilitate a comprehensive understanding, the article begins with a concise introduction titled "Caodaism in a Nutshell," providing a contextual backdrop for the ensuing exploration of Duc Cao Dai.
The CDR Journal, 2010
Bahá'í Faith is claimed to be nothing less than a new and independent religion and Bahá'ís view ... more Bahá'í Faith is claimed to be nothing less than a new and independent religion and Bahá'ís view Baháʼu'lláh as one of the most recent in the succession of divine messengers. In this sense, they believe that Baháʼu'lláh’s life, work, and influence parallel that of Abraham, Krishna, Moses, Zoroaster, Buddha, Christ, and Muhammad (S.M.). The central theme of Baháʼu'lláh’s message is that of unity and oneness. First, God is one. Second, all of the world’s great religions are also one and third, human beings as creations of one God, are also one people. These essential principles of Bahá'í Faith very implicitly exhibit the characteristics of an independent religion. Thus this article offers an understanding of Bahá'í Faith that has left its own mark in history and how it has grown from an obscure movement in the Middle East to a widespread religion.
The Dhaka University Studies, 2011
Comparative religion is an academic field that examines and analyzes the various religions practi... more Comparative religion is an academic field that examines and analyzes the various religions practiced around the world. It does so through a historical, critical, and comparative lens, using scientific and historical methods to understand these belief systems. This branch of study seeks to explore the similarities, differences, and relationships between different religions. Comparative religion is not primarily concerned with determining the ultimate truth or validity of these religions. Instead, it focuses on the objective study and analysis of religious practices, beliefs, and their cultural and historical contexts. In essence, it aims to understand and compare various religions without making judgments about which one is more valid or rigorous than another.
Journal of Sociology , 2017
The purpose of this paper is to assess the significance of an objective examination of religion w... more The purpose of this paper is to assess the significance of an objective examination of religion within a dialogical framework in fostering common threads of truth among various belief systems. The analysis takes into account points of convergence across different religions to shed light on shared truths. By emphasizing these shared beliefs, the paper seeks to facilitate the acquisition of values such as love, compassion, human dignity, empathy, and equality among followers of diverse faiths, ultimately discouraging violent activities.This investigation aims to illustrate how recognizing common elements of religious truth can foster mutual trust and understanding, thereby promoting interreligious harmony and unity. To achieve this objective, we undertake a comprehensive exploration of both major and minor world religions.
The Arts Faculty Journal, 2018
The current paper introduces Sikhism as a distinct cultural entity characterized by specific valu... more The current paper introduces Sikhism as a distinct cultural entity characterized by specific values. It endeavors to underscore the undeniable significance of Sikhism in Indian society. This socio-religious movement's role in combating injustice and prejudices is a central focus of this paper. Overall, this paper offers intriguing and innovative perspectives on individual worth and responsibility, as well as the role of personal identity in society. These elevated viewpoints encompass various aspects of human life and, in turn, endorse the concept of humanism within Sikhism.
Department of World Religions and Culture, University of Dhaka, 2022
It can be argued that the significance of religious studies in promoting interfaith harmony is un... more It can be argued that the significance of religious studies in promoting interfaith harmony is undeniable. It is worth emphasizing that the Department of World Religions and Culture at the University of Dhaka, along with the Centre for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue (CIID), has played a pivotal role in extending interfaith education and related activities. This chapter will focus on the pivotal role of the Department of World Religions and Culture at the University of Dhaka in fostering interreligious harmony.
Our exploration will revolve around the understanding of peace in the context of harmony and the opportunities such a perspective can offer in the pursuit of national peace and tranquility. Consequently, this chapter aims to contribute to current research by delving into communal harmony and other related issues. To this end, we will address the following questions: What is the Department's vision for communal harmony? How and why is the department actively engaged in promoting communal harmony? Furthermore, in discussing the necessity of establishing the Department of World Religions and Culture at the University of Dhaka, we will highlight communal harmony and interfaith dialogue as crucial topics for consideration. Methodologically, we employed a critical discourse analysis approach to elucidate the connection between communal harmony and interfaith dialogue, tolerance, and peace. In conclusion, this chapter underscores that a peaceful, harmonious, and sustainable future hinges on laying the groundwork for dialogue and understanding, particularly among children and youth.
Journal of Sociology , 2022
New religions have been especially appealing to people in a rapidly changing society. Conservativ... more New religions have been especially appealing to people in a rapidly changing society. Conservative and traditional moral values are often articulated in such a changing society. In a changing Japanese society, conservative and traditional moral values are often articulated; modes of hopes, understanding and meaning are provided; meaningful teaching and promises of salvation for people are offered. It should be mentioned that the various Japanese traditional ways of religious practices, such as magical healing, spirit possessions, and the gaining of worldly benefits, are the standard features of almost all of the New Religious Movements in Japan. This article contributes to the discussion on the background of New Religious Movements, the meaning of NMRs, their standard features, and persistent themes from a Japanese perspective. Thus, this paper proceeds by presenting some of the different socio-historical contexts based on which new religious movements emerged. It is an attempt of the current paper that can help us explain and evaluate the socio-historical facts of the rise of New Religious Movements in Japan. In addition, the current paper presents how New Religious Movements demonstrate their magnetic attraction for the ordinary people in Japan and create a new panorama providing the opportunity of being treated in a particular way. Finally, as for implication, this paper gives importance to some crucial issues that focus on further study of religion in Japan from different approaches in future that cannot be avoided the significant problems of democratisation, secularisation, and atheism in Japan. Keywords New Religious Movements. Persistent Themes. New Panorama. Democratisation. Secularisation. Organisational development. Multiplicity of religions .
Japanese Religion, in general, refers to the multiplicity of religions in Japan. Different religi... more Japanese Religion, in general, refers to the multiplicity of religions in Japan. Different religious traditions coexist in Japan for centuries after centuries without breaking interreligious harmony among them. The present work especially focuses the Traditional Japanese Religions as major elements of culture that are basically a mixture of folk religions, early Shinto, Confucianism, Daoism and Buddhism. Shinto has been the indigenous tradition for over two thousand years until it was synthesized with foreign elements. Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism have profoundly influenced the spiritual and socio-political life of the Japanese since 6 th century AD. These religious traditions have long met, interacted and influenced each other and together formed the religious and cultural life of the
The current paper brings forward the concept of religious diversity primarily for two reasons. Fi... more The current paper brings forward the concept of religious diversity primarily for two reasons. First, this paper proposes a brief overview of religious diversity in order to promote understanding on what diversity is and why. Thus, in this paper, an attempt is made to illuminate the concept of diversity in general and represent pro-active pluralistic interpretations from the perspective of religious diversity in particular. Second, this highlighting of religious diversity, in this current study, suggests the probable effective role of teachers' professionalism in creating diversity awareness in the tender minds of the school-going students in Bangladesh. This, in particular, enables the researchers to clarify the issue in a best possible way so that they can suggest some effective teaching strategies for teachers' professionalism with regard to religious diversity. Thus, in order to deal with the current problem, considerable attention has been given to the necessity of the education of religious diversity in schools toward promoting interreligious harmony in a pluralistic society like Bangladesh.
Special Issue: Religious Studies in South Asia: The Dhaka Initiative, 2011
In just over 150 years, the adherents to Bahai faith have grown from an obscure movement in the M... more In just over 150 years, the adherents to Bahai faith have grown
from an obscure movement in the Middle East to a widespread independent
world religious tradition. The global scope of Bahai faith is mirrored in the
composition of its membership. Representing a cross-section of humanity,
Bahais come from virtually every nation, ethnic group, culture, profession,
and social and economic background. About six million followers of the faith
reside in more than 100,000 localities around the world and represent more
than 2,100 different ethnic groups. This essay reviews the history of how
Bahai faith came to be accepted in eastern Bengal and provides a sketch of
current distribution, organization and activities of Bahais in Bangladesh.
Philosophy and Progress
This paper evaluates an ancient system of cosmology as a part of phenomenology of religion that i... more This paper evaluates an ancient system of cosmology as a part of phenomenology of religion that is intrinsic to ancient Chinese philosophic attitude toward life. The ideas of the dynamic balance of opposites i.e. yin and yang duality, the supernatural force (the Tao) relating to the gradual development of events through a process of formulation, and thereby, acceptance of the inevitability of change are taken under consideration. In Chinese tradition, all forms of change are regarded as expressions of the interaction of two auxiliary forces (controlled by the Tao), the yin and the yang, between which equilibrium and harmony are assumed, as well as conflict and opposition. The yin-yang principles are regarded as the two major elements of Chinese cosmology: yin, being the female
The Department of World Religions and Culture at the University of Dhaka , 2022
This book covers some very crucial issues of our contemporary period in relation to the religious... more This book covers some very crucial issues of our contemporary period in relation to the religious and spiritual traditions of the world.