Religious Coexistence as Tolerance: The Case of Sunni-Shia Practices at Bibi Paak Daman (S.A) Shrine in Lahore Pakistan

Abstract

This research aimed to determine how the Bibi Paak Daman Shrine, which is located in Lahore, Pakistan, can act as an example of tolerance between Sunni and Shia Muslims. Specifically, the goal of the research was to comprehend the role of common religious buildings and rituals in reducing sectarian conflicts and promoting group cohesion. Stemming from the theoretical perspectives of religious pluralism (Barry 2003) and shared sacred spaces (Taylor 2010), the study analyzes how the shrine’s connection to the Ahl-e-Bayt (A.S) and Ruqayyah bint Ali (A. S.) fosters interactions between the Shias and Sunnis. The study was grounded within a qualitative framework and incorporates observational analysis and interviews with Sunni and Shia worshippers as well as Islamic scholars and employees of shrines. Information was obtained through interviews and observations during on-site field research at the shrine and nearby locations. Such categories were analyzed on thematic levels to highlight patterns connected to common practices, problem-solving strategies, and actions towards promoting religious tolerance by the communities involved. It has revealed that Sunni and Shia participants’ common rites and rituals like dua, qawwali, and majlis-e-aza make them turn their attention to their respective spiritual traditions instead of the sectarian ones, while the management of the shrines through Sunni and Shia leaderships rekindles the spirit of togetherness and tolerance. In this regard, this research benefits the literature through showing how interfaith spaces have the potential of enhancing religious diversity in sectarian societies and inform how such models can be applied to other contentious areas.