Reformist Islamic Legal Thought and Interfaith Harmony: A Study of Abdul Hamid Abu Sulayman’s Principles in the Post Easter Sunday Context of Sri Lanka

Abstract

This article examines the relevance and applicability of Abdul Hamid Abu Sulayman’s reformist theory of Islamic international relations in addressing post easter sunday inter communal tensions in Sri Lanka. The 2019 attacks and their aftermath intensified ethno religious polarization, particularly affecting muslim non muslim relations, and exposed the limitations of state centric and securitized approaches to peacebuilding. Employing a qualitative normative contextual approach, this study analyzes Abu Sulayman’s hierarchical ethical framework ranging from as-silm (peace) to higher moral principles such as al-‘adl (justice) and al-qisth (equity) and situates it within Sri Lanka’s contemporary socio political realities. The findings suggest that Abu Sulayman’s emphasis on intellectual reform, ethical universalism, and human centered values offers a culturally resonant alternative to rigid legalism and majoritarian governance. By reframing concepts such as jihad, coexistence, dialogue, and justice, this framework provides practical normative guidance for religious leaders, civil society, and policy actors to foster sustainable interreligious harmony. The study concludes that integrating reformist Islamic ethical principles into peacebuilding initiatives can contribute to rebuilding trust, strengthening pluralism, and promoting inclusive national cohesion in post conflict, multi religious societies.