World Interfaith Harmony Week is observed every year in the first week of February, from February 1 to 7. This observation has emerged from the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Resolution that seeks a worldwide celebration of interfaith harmony. The World Interfaith Harmony Week was started in 2010 by HM King Abdullah II and HRH Prince Ghazi bin Muhammad of Jordan. The goal of the week-long celebration is to promote harmony between citizens of the world, regardless of their faith. It is a celebration of unity in diversity, and the divine connection between people and their faith.
History of World Interfaith Harmony Week
The World Interfaith Harmony Week was proposed by H.M. King Abdullah II of Jordan at the U.N. General Assembly in September 2010. A month later, the U.N. declared that the first week of February will be celebrated as World Interfaith Harmony Week. The celebration is based on the works of The Common Word initiative. The initiative got Muslim and Christian leaders to discuss the two common fundamental religious teachings — the love of God, and the love of the neighbor. The religious leaders conducted dialogues on how these beliefs were central to both religions.
The World Interfaith Harmony Week modified the two Commandments to “Love of the Good,” and “Love of the Neighbour.” This mantra teaches everyone goodwill and the power of kindness, charity, and healing. During this week, leaders of various faiths gather to discuss how religion can enrich the lives of believers and how that makes the world a better place. World Interfaith Harmony Week also highlights the philanthropic works of religious groups. It encourages others to do similar work or get more involved in their communities.
Amidst rising religious conflicts, noble celebrations like World Interfaith Harmony Week are the call of the hour. The most important goal of this observation is to get people to realize that our common values of love, faith, and kindness easily outweigh our differences. With patience and humility, we could all make the world a wonderful place to live in — one where faith unites and religion is not a means of oppression.
World Interfaith Harmony Week timeline
The King of Jordan writes about the tenets of Islam.
The message documents the common teachings of Islam and Christianity.
The King of Jordan proposes the observation at UNGA.
The prize is awarded to groups for successfully promoting interfaith harmony.
World Interfaith Harmony Week FAQs
What happens during World Interfaith Harmony Week?
World Interfaith Harmony Week spreads harmony and tolerance among followers of different faiths and all the world’s religions.
What is interfaith harmony?
Interfaith harmony means bringing peace and tranquility among people, regardless of their faiths.
Why is interfaith harmony important?
Interfaith harmony encourages peaceful coexistence among practitioners of various religious beliefs in an age of increasing political and social differences.
How to Observe World Interfaith Harmony Week
Tune in to the live stream
The events of World Interfaith Harmony Week are live-streamed online. Tune in to the celebrations to learn more about interfaith harmony.
Do your bit
Promote interfaith harmony in your own way during World Interfaith Harmony Week. Tell people about the shared goals of all faiths and how love and kindness are integral to all religious beliefs.
Learn about a different faith
Read the scriptures or learn about a different faith during World Interfaith Harmony Week. This will help you understand the different ways of praying and living.
5 Facts About Religion That Will Blow Your Mind
Christianity is the largest religion
There are about 2.5 billion practicing Christians.
Atheism is a belief too
There are an estimated 1.2 billion non-believers.
Rastafari is the most minor religion
There are 600,000 Rastafaris.
Christianity, Islam, and Judaism are Abrahamic religions
Meaning that they all worship a form of Abraham.
Islam is the second-largest religion
There are 2 billion followers.
Why World Interfaith Harmony Week is Important
It promotes peace
Celebrations such as World Interfaith Harmony Week promotes peace and unity among people of all faith. It makes them believe in the goodness of people.
It celebrates humanity
The most important objective of World Interfaith Harmony Week is celebrating humanity. Throughout the week, the good deeds of humanity are highlighted. The week also inspires us to be better.
It celebrates unity in diversity
World Interfaith Harmony Week celebrates the unifying function of faith. The week-long celebrations remind us that despite our differences, we are connected by acts of love and devotion.
World Interfaith Harmony Week dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | February 1 | Saturday |
| 2026 | February 1 | Sunday |
| 2027 | February 1 | Monday |
| 2028 | February 1 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | February 1 | Thursday |
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