The "Open Doors" initiative is a project run by the Abdullah Quilliam Society, which is based in Liverpool, UK. The initiative aims to provide a non-judgmental and safe space for everyone to meet and interact with like-minded individuals. The project also aims to dispel myths and misconceptions about Islam and Muslims. The initiative is based on the prophetic method of informing and inspiring people to the way of life prescribed by their Creator, meaning inviting people to Islam through good conduct, dialogue, and sharing of knowledge. The initiative seeks to build bridges of understanding and commonalities between people of different faiths and cultures. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used the method of socialization and personal invitations to non-Muslims as means of spreading the message of Islam. One of the earliest examples of this is the invitation he extended to the people of his tribe, the Quraysh, to a meal at his home in Makkah. At the time, the Quraysh were largely opposed to Islam, and many of them were openly hostile to the Prophet (pbuh) and his followers. However, when the Prophet (pbuh) invited them to a meal, they accepted the invitation out of curiosity and respect for his reputation as a trustworthy and honorable person. During the meal, the Prophet took the opportunity to speak to his guests about Islam and its teachings. Although many of the Quraysh remained unconvinced, some were moved by his words and began to explore the religion further. This approach of inviting people to a normal social event where different issues and differences of opinions can be discussed and debated in congenial and friendly environment is indeed a Prophetic method for spreading the message and understanding of Islam as well. We can only comprehend the wisdom of this method when we understand the fact that mankind with all its diversity of cultures, colours and creeds is so because it's Creator willed it to be like that. These difference are the Will of the Creator as He says in Quran: "And if your Lord had willed, He could have made mankind one community; but they would still continue to differ." (Quran 11:118) And "If Allah had so willed, He would have made you one community, but He wanted to test you through that which He has given you, so race to do good: you will all return to Allah and He will make clear to you the matters you differed about." (Quran 5:48) So the purpose of the diversity of faiths and cultures amongst the mankind is to learn from each other and to develop our intellect by discussing, debating and deliberating our differences between us and come to the best consensus about them. And all this is, so that mankind reach a level of being which is objective, just, discerning, truthful, sincere, trustworthy, honourable, dignified, steadfast, creative, positive, compassionate, kind, caring, loving and balanced human existence. Evidence from Quran The Quran encourages Muslims to engage in debates, discussions and deliberations with non-Muslims in a respectful and courteous manner. Here are a few references from the Quran about the importance of dialogue and good conduct when discussing matters of religion with others: "And do not argue with the People of the Scripture except in a way that is best, except for those who commit injustice among them, and say, "We believe in that which has been revealed to us and revealed to you. And our God and your God is one; and we are Muslims [in submission] to Him." (Quran 29:46) This verse instructs Muslims to engage in discussions with the People of the Book (Jews and Christians) in a way that is best and to emphasize the commonalities between Islam and their faith. "And do not insult those they invoke other than Allah, lest they insult Allah in enmity without knowledge. Thus, We have made pleasing to every community their deeds. Then to their Lord is their return, and He will inform them about what they used to do." (Quran 6:108) This verse warns Muslims not to insult or ridicule the beliefs of others, as this can lead to enmity and conflict. Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction, and argue with them in a way that is best. Indeed, your Lord is most knowing of who has strayed from His way, and He is most knowing of who is [rightly] guided." (Quran 16:125) Another verse that encourages peaceful interaction with non-Muslims is: "O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted." (Quran 49:13) This verse reminds Muslims that all people, regardless of their faith or background, are equal in the eyes of Allah. It encourages Muslims to reach out to others, to learn about their cultures and beliefs, and to build relationships based on mutual respect and understanding. This verse emphasizes the importance of using wise and kind words to invite others to Islam, and engaging in respectful dialogue with those who may have different beliefs. It encourages Muslims to be patient and understanding, and to trust in Allah's guidance in all interactions with non-Muslims. There is one verse in the Quran that relates to the instruction given to Prophet Musa (Moses) about speaking gently to Pharaoh is: "Go, both of you, to Pharaoh. Indeed, he has transgressed. And speak to him with gentle speech that perhaps he may be reminded or fear [Allah]." (Quran 20:44) In this verse, Allah is instructing Prophet Musa and his brother Prophet Haroon (Aaron) to go to Pharaoh and invite him to Islam with gentle and kind words, despite the fact that Pharaoh was a tyrant who had committed many crimes and oppressed the Children of Israel. This verse teaches us the importance of using gentle speech and good manners, even when dealing with those who may be hostile or difficult to deal with There are other instances in the Quran where Moses is instructed to speak softly to Pharaoh, such as in Surah Taha (20:43-44) and Surah Ash-Shu'ara (26:13-16) . In all of these instances, Moses is instructed to speak gently to Pharaoh and advise him in a polite manner to follow the way of Allah. Overall, the Quran emphasizes the importance of engaging in dialogue and debate with others in a respectful and courteous manner, and to focus on the commonalities between different faiths rather than their differences. The work of the Abdullah Quilliam Society is a blessing for those who value tolerance, understanding, and inclusivity in today's society.

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