Religious toleration, also known as religious tolerance, refers to the practice of allowing people to think, believe, or practice religions different from one's own without interference or persecution. It often involves a dominant religion permitting the existence of minority religions, even if it views them with disapproval or as mistaken
. Key aspects of religious toleration include:
- Forbearance and permission: It means enduring or permitting other religions to exist, often in relation to a dominant state religion, without actively suppressing them
- Legal and political dimensions: Religious toleration can be granted by the state through laws or constitutions, allowing different religious groups to practice their faith publicly or privately without legal penalties
- Distinction from religious freedom: While related, toleration is not the same as full religious liberty; toleration may allow or restrict certain rights and can be withdrawn, whereas religious freedom generally implies broader protections
- Historical and cultural contexts: Different religions and societies have practiced toleration in various ways. For example, Buddhism has been viewed as unusually tolerant due to its recognition of diverse spiritual needs
. Islam, according to Quranic teachings, advocates for freedom of belief and respectful dialogue with other faiths, particularly the "people of the book" (Jews and Christians), though it historically assigned them a protected but subordinate status under Islamic law
In summary, religious toleration is the acceptance and allowance of religious diversity, often involving a dominant religion or state permitting other religions to coexist without persecution, though not necessarily endorsing them
