At the heart of my novel, The Finding - Itihad, interfaith dialogue serves as a recurring and vital theme, framing broader discussions about global conflict, geopolitical tensions, and personal transformation. The title itself, Itihad, is derived from the Arabic word meaning “union,” reflecting the novel’s exploration of unity across religions, cultures, and philosophies.
This theme is powerfully symbolized by the inclusion of a painting inspired by Ralph Heimans’ The Dialogue, which hangs in the room of one of the protagonists. The painting’s presence is more than decorative; it acts as a silent witness and philosophical anchor for the story, embodying the hope for reconciliation in a divided world.
The Dialogue: A Painting That Speaks Across Faiths
Ralph Heimans, a celebrated artist known for his deeply symbolic works, created The Dialogue to address the rising tensions among religious communities worldwide. The painting centers on the Dome of the Rock, the sacred site in Jerusalem revered by Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. Heimans was inspired to create the piece after a visit to Jerusalem, where the golden dome, gleaming in the sunlight, stood as both a symbol of shared heritage and a point of contention among the Abrahamic faiths.
The painting’s composition reflects its layered significance. The central image of the Dome is surrounded by faint, almost ethereal figures in conversation, representing the invisible yet essential dialogues that foster trust and understanding. Light and shadow interplay subtly across the canvas, symbolizing both the conflicts and the commonalities between faiths. Surrounding the Dome are intricate elements referencing each monotheistic tradition, presented with equal reverence to emphasize their interconnectedness.
Unveiled at a major interfaith cultural event in London, The Dialogue became an instant symbol of hope and reconciliation. It toured internationally, exhibited in venues ranging from mosques to secular galleries, where it served as a catalyst for interfaith discussions. Visitors often remarked on its ability to inspire reflection on how art can bridge divides, making the spiritual accessible to all.
The Role of The Dialogue in The Finding - Itihad
In the novel, the painting occupies a prominent place in the room of one of the protagonists. This character—a key figure in the narrative—finds solace and inspiration in The Dialogue, which acts as both a personal refuge and a symbol of the broader themes of unity explored in the story. The room itself becomes a sanctuary where pivotal conversations about faith, conflict, and human connection unfold, with the painting quietly presiding over these moments of introspection and dialogue.
The choice to feature The Dialogue is intentional, aligning with the novel’s emphasis on interfaith understanding as a pathway to resolving global crises. The painting’s depiction of the Dome of the Rock resonates deeply with the protagonist’s belief in the transformative power of dialogue. It reflects their inner struggle to reconcile differences and find common ground—mirroring the world’s need to navigate divisions and strive for peace.
Unity and Conflict
As a whole, the novel delves into the complexities of global conflict and the potential for faith to act as a unifying force. By introducing characters from diverse religious and cultural backgrounds, the book argues that much of the world’s discord stems from ignorance, fear, and miscommunication. It proposes that interfaith dialogue can mitigate these divisions and lay the foundation for a more cooperative world order.
The protagonist who owns the painting is one of many characters in the story (albeit a very special one) whose journey reflects the broader themes of reconciliation and understanding. Their personal struggles echo the novel’s larger philosophical questions: How can spirituality contribute to resolving global crises? What role can faith play in a world dominated by technology, finance, and political strife?
The painting also ties into the novel’s exploration of the idea of a modern "messiah" figure—someone who might emerge to unite fractured societies. While the book doesn’t suggest a literal savior, it raises questions about what such leadership might look like in a world increasingly shaped by global crises, from economic instability to environmental threats.
Faith, Art, and the Human Condition
The Finding - Itihad weaves spirituality and mysticism with modern disciplines, suggesting that global challenges require more than political or economic solutions. The novel emphasizes that deeper truths—spiritual and philosophical—are vital in addressing crises. The inclusion of The Dialogue reinforces this message, illustrating how art can provoke reflection and inspire change.
The choice of the Arabic word Itihad for the title is itself symbolic, hinting at the possibility of union among Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. The novel doesn’t present this union as easily achievable but as a necessary step to avoid further global disintegration.
By the story’s conclusion, The Finding - Itihad makes it clear that religious and philosophical reflection is not an afterthought in the human experience—it is central to understanding our place in the world, especially in times of upheaval. Through its characters and the symbolic presence of The Dialogue, the novel invites readers to consider how interfaith dialogue and unity might pave the way toward a more harmonious future.
Comments