with the efforts of the Deputy for Communications and International Affairs, a scientific meeting on Comparative Study of the Teachings of Monotheism, Prophethood, and Resurrection in Islam and Hinduism was held with the participation of a group of professors, researchers, and figures from India. The keynote speech of the event was delivered by Dr. Seyyed Mohammad Rouhani, a faculty member of the University of Religions and Denominations in Qom.
Referring to the holy Hindu texts, Dr. Rouhani stated, “The teachings of the Upanishads, and especially concepts such as “Brahman” (absolute truth) and “Atman” (true self), reflect a deep monotheistic attitude in Hinduism that is comparable to the concept of monotheism in Islam.” He added, “The denial of polytheism and the belief in the unity of the divine essence are evident in many ancient Hindu scriptures.”
In the section on prophecy, this faculty member of the University of Religions and Denominations compared the concept of “Avatara” (divine incarnations) in Hinduism with “Prophecy” in Islam, adding, “Although at first glance there are fundamental differences, one can find commonalities in the guiding role of the prophets of Islam and the Hindu Avatars.”
On the subject of resurrection, Dr. Rouhani examined the concepts of “Karma,” “Samsara” (rebirth), and “Moksha” (final liberation) in Hinduism and compared these concepts with Islamic teachings on resurrection and doomsday. He noted, “Both religions emphasize human moral responsibility and afterlife accountability, although there are differences in their mechanisms.”
The session ended with questions and answers from the audience about the possibility of further dialogue between Islam and Hinduism. In conclusion, Dr. Rouhani emphasized, “A careful understanding of the commonalities and differences can pave the way for a deeper dialogue between the followers of these two religions.”
