Holding the Ropes
Interfaith Dialogue & Reflections Surrounding the War
by Nazhath Faheema
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. 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.
Preface
In selecting the title "Holding the Ropes: Interfaith Dialogue & Reflections Surrounding the Israel-Gaza War" for this blog series, I am mindful of the potential sensitivity surrounding these words. I recognize that the term 'war' is contentious, especially among those who perceive the situation in Gaza as a form of genocide against Palestinians living under Israeli occupation. Additionally, addressing interfaith friendships against the backdrop of the Israel-Gaza conflict may be seen as provocative, though I do not intend to suggest that the conflict is inherently interreligious.
This series explores the emotional and relational complexities experienced by individuals of diverse faiths striving to maintain connections amidst the fog of conflict. Through my encounters and reflections, I discover challenges, conflicts, and moments of resilience that emerge when friendships navigate the turbulent waters of war. While I aim to share numerous experiences, I have also curated some for privacy and personal introspection. Understandably, where necessary I have refrained from sharing photos and details of the people involved in some of these safe-space dialogues.
While I acknowledge that my perspective may be biased and shaped by my experiences and context, I seek to contribute to a deeper understanding of the war through these personal narratives. While the war is not inherently religious, it undoubtedly impacts the fabric of our diverse religious communities.
I am prepared for differing reactions and responses to this narrative, understanding that certain viewpoints may provoke judgment, questions, and criticisms. Nevertheless, I hope this series catalyzes broader discussions about the complexities of interfaith friendships amidst political conflicts.
I recognize that there are individuals grappling with conflicting narratives, truth battles, navigating tensions between opposing sides, and preserving friendships amid challenging circumstances. "Holding the Ropes" ultimately tells a story of resilience and unwavering commitment to interfaith friendship, transcending the devastating backdrop of the 2023 Israel-Gaza war.
A Week Before the War Began
Before delving into my experiences during the 2023 Israel-Gaza war, briefly examining the days immediately before October 7, 2023, is essential. Gaining insight into this specific timeframe is crucial for comprehending the profound impact of the ensuing war on me.
7th October 2023
At midnight, on the eve of October 7, 2023, I reflected on recent interfaith dialogues, not only those involving Jewish-Muslim relations but also other areas. I took to social media to share my thoughts in a post titled "Interfaith Dialogue: The Lonely Middle-Man." In it, I expressed the sense of isolation that often accompanies interfaith dialogue, along with the fear of judgment and the concern of being perceived as a less devout Muslim. My experiences between October 4th and 6th underscored the emotional toll of this work, as it requires intellectual engagement and a profound capacity for empathy with the emotions and experiences of others in the room. Engaging in such dialogues without veering into debate, particularly on controversial topics, presents a significant challenge.
At sunrise, I woke up to the news about Hamas launching an unprecedented attack on Israel. US President Joe Biden referred to this as the “deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust”. Israel retaliated, with Benjamin Netanyahu committing to dismantle Hamas' authority in the Gaza Strip. This led to a military response that has now inflicted extensive damage on Gaza. Amidst this turmoil, interfaith relations among Jews, Muslims, and Christians, already intertwined with the enduring Israeli-Palestinian conflict, anticipating strain.
12 Oct 2023: Affirming my interfaith role in this war
My role and responsibility lie in fostering good relationships and preserving peaceful relations in my immediate surroundings. That's where I'll focus my efforts. That is the Singaporean ethos I was nurtured with. That is the lesson I learned from years of working on racial and religious harmony.
10 Oct 2023: “To my Jewish friends, who protect our friendship”
Faheema shares a message highlighting her friendship with Jewish people who have displayed empathy, courage, and confidence while preserving our friendship despite their ongoing struggle.
8 Oct 2023: “It is okay to be confused and silent”
This article addresses those who found themselves torn between condemning acts of terror by Hamas against Israelis while also strongly supporting the Palestinian cause. I aimed to highlight the situation's complexity, urging individuals to recognize the multifaceted emotions and perspectives of those genuinely seeking to empathize with both sides.