Inspired by Prophet Noah on the Ark of Faith: Today, We Are Still on the Bridge
"So God said to Noah, 'Make yourself an ark of cypress wood; make rooms in it and coat it with pitch inside and out.' … 'But I will establish my covenant with you, and you will enter the ark—you and your sons and your wife and your sons’ wives with you.'"
(Genesis 6:14,18)
"And We carried him on a [construction of] planks and nails, sailing under Our observation as a reward for he who had been denied."
(Quran 54:13-14)
Recently, in reflecting on dialogues with friends engaged in interfaith work, I was struck by how challenging and complex their situations have become. These individuals, navigating daily difficulties, embody the resilience required to maintain dialogue amidst global tensions. The recent ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, while offering a glimmer of hope, changes little about the strained nature of the bridges we must sustain. Such bridges—fragile yet essential—demand the presence of rational and calm individuals committed to fostering meaningful conversation.
The story of Prophet Noah and the Ark provides a poignant metaphor for this work. The Ark, a vessel of salvation built under Divine guidance, weathered the chaos of the flood to preserve hope and life. Similarly, interfaith dialogue functions as a bridge over turbulent waters, requiring the same patience, discipline, and faith that Noah demonstrated in his mission. This work is not for the faint-hearted; it demands unwavering dedication to sustain meaningful connections in the face of adversity.
Building the Ark of Emotional Discipline
Noah’s Ark, meticulously crafted to withstand the floodwaters, symbolizes the emotional discipline required for interfaith dialogue. This work demands the ability to engage deeply while maintaining composure, a delicate balance between empathy and detachment. Like Noah, who remained focused on his mission despite the chaos around him, those in interfaith work must carefully construct their dialogues to ensure they can endure the storms of conflict.
The Ark’s purpose was to preserve life; similarly, dialogue seeks to preserve understanding amidst division. Achieving this requires thoughtful articulation and emotional awareness. Dialogue becomes the framework of an ark, its structure reliant on the precision and care of those involved. Without this, the bridge of dialogue risks collapse under the weight of hostility and misunderstanding.
Confronting the Flood of Discomfort
Prophet Noah faced immense opposition and disbelief, yet he persisted, driven by faith and a Divine command. The Quran recounts his perseverance: "And We certainly sent Noah to his people, [saying], 'Indeed, I am to you a clear warner, that you not worship except Allah. Indeed, I fear for you the punishment of a painful day.'” (Quran 11:25-26). Similarly, interfaith dialogue requires confronting discomfort and resistance, often forcing participants to engage with complex and uncomfortable truths.
For example, navigating conversations about Zionism, antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Christian sentiments involves addressing deeply ingrained biases on all sides. These efforts are akin to the Ark carrying creatures that would not naturally coexist—a reminder that dialogue must accommodate tensions and contradictions. Discomfort, though challenging, is essential for fostering genuine understanding and coexistence.
Navigating Political Currents Without Losing Direction
Noah’s Ark did not drift aimlessly; it sailed under Divine observation, guided through chaos. Similarly, interfaith dialogue must navigate political tensions without being overtaken by them. The recent ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, while offering temporary relief, underscores the persistence of deeper divisions that dialogue must address.
Like Noah gathering provisions for his journey, interfaith practitioners must prepare by understanding the histories and political contexts of the communities they engage with. This informed approach serves as a compass, ensuring that dialogue remains focused on building human connections rather than being derailed by partisan agendas. Recognizing biases in these narratives allows for a more balanced and productive conversation.
Standing Apart: The Strength of the Ark
The Ark stood alone amidst the vast floodwaters, carrying the seeds of renewal while the world around it was engulfed. Those involved in interfaith dialogue often find themselves in similar isolation, standing apart from their communities for refusing to align with polarizing narratives. Like Noah, who persevered in the face of ridicule, interfaith practitioners must hold steadfast to their purpose, even when it feels isolating.
This solitude is not a weakness but a strength. By embracing difference and fostering mutual respect, interfaith dialogue becomes a space for connection rather than division. Like the Ark, which carried diverse species in harmony, these bridges reflect the potential for coexistence amidst profound differences.
Faith in the Loneliness of the Journey
The Quran’s description of the Ark highlights God’s care and guidance: "And We carried him on a [construction of] planks and nails, sailing under Our observation as a reward for he who had been denied." (Quran 54:13-14). This trust in Divine protection mirrors the faith required in interfaith dialogue, especially when the path forward feels uncertain.
There are moments when the weight of this work feels unbearable, when the bridge seems ready to collapse under the strain of division and hostility. Yet, it is precisely in these moments that faith becomes an anchor, reminding us that these bridges are not merely human constructs but expressions of Divine will. Faith in the possibility of understanding sustains us through the turbulence.
Toward a Theology of Renewal
The story of Noah concludes with a covenant, symbolized by a rainbow, representing hope and renewal. Similarly, interfaith dialogue carries the potential for renewal, provided it is sustained with patience, discipline, and faith. It is more than a practice; it is a theology, a commitment to the sanctity of human connection and the belief that understanding can overcome division.
"Today, we are still on the bridge, but alone." This statement captures the paradox of interfaith work: isolating yet profoundly communal, fragile yet enduring. Like Noah’s Ark, the bridge of dialogue offers a glimmer of hope amidst chaos—a testament to resilience, faith, and the possibility of renewal. Through trust, knowledge, and unwavering belief, we remain on this bridge, inspired by Prophet Noah and guided by the Divine, carrying forward the seeds of connection, compassion, and a vision for a better future.
Holding the Ropes: Interfaith Dialogue & Reflections Surrounding the Israel-Hamas War is a blog series that follows the events, dialogues and reflections experienced by Nazhath Faheema in the aftermath of the 2023 Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. Triggered by the Hamas attack on Israel on 7 October 2023 and Israel’s military response, there continues to be widespread destruction and civilian displacement in Gaza. Additionally, Israeli hostages remain in captivity.
Against this backdrop, Nazhath Faheema, through her reflections, provides insights into the dynamics of the war, its impact on interfaith relations, and the inherent challenges and opportunities in fostering understanding and empathy between Jewish and Muslim communities.
