Presentation Schedule
Reinterpreting Abrahamic Theologies for Global Citizenship and Peace (109790)
Session Chair: Sara Elaine Neswald
Saturday, 11 July 2026 12:40
Session: Session 3
Room: UCL Torrington, G13 (Ground Floor)
Presentation Type:Oral Presentation
Background: Contemporary global conflicts are frequently intertwined with religious identities and theological interpretations. In particular, perceptions of exclusivity within the Abrahamic traditions—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam—often contribute to inter-religious tensions.
Problem Statement: Certain interpretations suggest that Judaism emphasizes chosenness, Christianity emphasizes exclusivist salvation only through Jesus, and Islam propagates finality of prophethood through Muhammad. These interpretations foster attitudes of superiority often provoking reciprocal resistance and conflict.
Objective: This paper aims to critically examine the textual foundations of these beliefs and investigate whether canonical scriptures necessarily mandate exclusivist interpretations.
Methodology: The study undertakes a comparative textual analysis of key scriptural passages from the Old Testament, the New Testament, and the Qur’an. It engages with classical and contemporary interpretations to identify alternative, inclusive readings.
Key Argument: One God that is the rock bed of theology in all the three religions. The paper raises the question how One God can be a possession of any particular religion. It suggests that the foundational texts across these religion can—and must—be interpreted to support ethical universality. The paper suggests that the exclusivist readings may be historically contingent rather than textually inevitable.
Implications: By foregrounding inclusive interpretations, this paper proposes a theological basis for global citizenship rooted in common belief in One God, mutual respect, dignity, and peaceful coexistence. Such reinterpretations may help reduce inter-religious tensions and support peace-building efforts.
Conclusion: Revisiting and reinterpreting core religious texts offers a constructive pathway toward mitigating conflict and fostering a shared ethical framework across religious boundaries.
Authors:
Bharat Jhunjhunwala, Independent Scholar, India
About the Presenter(s)
Dr Bharat Jhunjhunwala is a Independent Scholar at Self-employed in India
See this presentation on the full schedule – Saturday Schedule
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