No one can reconcile to the horrors of genocide nor can we allow ourselves to be consumed by sectarian divisions while such atrocities unfold. This is not a time for division but for unity in defending our shared humanity. Religion and sect are much like cultural or traditional garments one wears after birth, and should not define one's essence. We are all part of a shared existence, undifferentiated by these labels. This fundamental human identity should guide how we treat each other in both peace and war, in good times and bad, without discrimination.
The Arab world must move beyond the confines of sectarianism, which is often propagated by media and politics. However, this can only happen if there is a deep-rooted acceptance of sectarianism within the broader social fabric. What is needed today is a universal human discourse that allows us to understand both religious texts and the social concerns of the region. As Muhammad al Rumaihi notes, sectarianism has deepened in society. Some divisions have become entrenched, forming closed circles defined by tribe or sect.
In his book Contemporary Arab Society, Halim Barakat observes that public order and culture often categorise citizens based on their sect rather than as citizens. Hence, there is a growing call for secularism. However, I believe that secularism cannot achieve its true value unless it stems from a unified human tendency. Otherwise, as history shows, imperialism has exploited sectarianism to serve its interests, fuelling conflicts and wars to maintain control and exploit the resources of these peoples. This is evident in the actions of the occupying forces in Palestine, leading to genocide in Gaza and widespread destruction in Lebanon.
On social media today, we see a resurgence of sectarianism, with political disputes from as far back as the Saqifah incident being brought back to life. Debates about the Companions and theological differences are being weaponised in this context, which only serves to distract from the real issue—the protection of those facing genocide and barbaric warfare.
If the rational among us do not stand against the invocation of sectarianism in such humanitarian crises and instead promote a unified global human discourse, the harm caused will spread beyond the areas of war and genocide. As Muhammad Mahfouz states in his article The State, Sectarianism, and the Problems of Unity and Social Peace, sectarian affiliations are a symptom of a deep crisis in Arab societies, where modern political ideologies have faded and been replaced by sectarian identities. These identities fuel social tensions, perpetuating historical grievances and the bloody legacies of sectarian relationships in times of civilisational decline. This cycle of sectarianism justifies violence in public life, which destroys individuals, societies, and the very foundations of a dignified life.
Thus, it is imperative that intellectuals, religious leaders, and socially influential figures dismantle the structures of sectarian discourse and return to a shared human narrative. We must also combat populist rhetoric and the so-called "digital armies" that aim to rekindle hatred and sectarianism, exploiting the tragedies in Palestine and Lebanon to deepen divisions. We must use these same tools to promote the values of human dignity, resistance against injustice, and the importance of a unified human approach. The situation demands a critical and reformist spirit, one that fosters collective awareness and influences social movements and political decision-making.
The article is translated by Badr al Dhafari.
The original version of this article was published in Arabic in the print edition of Oman newspaper on October 23.
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