Considers that there is a fundamental truth at the core of all religions...

Considers that there is a fundamental truth at the core of all religions, and this common truth makes all religions equally valid and in fact one faith. Considers that sincerity of belief is what is important, and that all beliefs as such are equally valid. Action Oriented Considers that only one faith is valid, and that its most important expression is in what people do.

Considers that the ethical element in all faiths is essentially the same, and it is this element with makes all faiths in reality one. Accepts diversity of belief and organization, because what really matters is cooperation on social, ethical and spiritual essentials. Secular Considers the religious identity important, without participating in religious life; or strongly rejects sectarian identity.

Considers that all religions are the same, and serve the same functions for people who are dependent on them. Maintains that all religions are expressions of human experience, and all are equally valid or invalid. In Table Two I have defined six basic methods of approach as combining the features of directness and indirectness with a unifying approach, a confrontational one, and an illicit one. Most goal-oriented situations will be characterized by one or more of these approaches.

Illicit approaches must be recognized for what they are. The desire to persuade, especially when frustrated, often leads to one of these un-Islamic approaches. Neuro-linguistic programming has become common in not only selling, but in therapy, teaching and religion. It is not compatible with Islam, because it leads to a change in behavior which bypasses the conscious decision of the individual based on reason. From an Islamic point of view, that is immoral.

Table Two: Methods of Approach Direct Indirect Unifying Focus on common aspects of the different faiths. Find common interests with a neutral faith content. Confrontational Confront differences actively, trying to persuade to change belief system and behavior. Find ways to introduce circumstances which may cause reflection and self-motivated change. Illicit Direct force. Manipulation, hypnotism, neuro-linguistic programming.

The establishment of a spiritual profile is a dynamic process involving the individual in several types of influencing circumstances. Religious authorities, social and religious peers, and individual characteristics integrate in an individual’s experience to produce and reinforce a religious identity, a belief system, and a pattern of behavior.