Interreligious

Interreligious is an adjective describing relations, dialogue, or activities that involve more than one religion or religious tradition. The term is commonly used to refer to initiatives that bring together adherents of different faiths to discuss beliefs, share practices, or address common concerns, with an emphasis on mutual understanding and respect. Interreligious work is closely related to but distinct from interfaith activity; while interfaith often emphasizes cooperation across faith communities, interreligious work may foreground joint action and shared projects, and sometimes concerns theologian differences alongside cooperation.

Key domains include interreligious dialogue, in which representatives exchange views about beliefs and values; interreligious education, which teaches about multiple religions; and interreligious social action, where joint humanitarian, environmental, or peace-building projects are undertaken. Activities range from dialogue forums and study circles to shared worship, service projects, and public statements on moral issues.

Historically, interreligious engagement has roots in ancient exchanges and gained new momentum in the 20th century with ecumenical movements and postwar initiatives. Major institutions include religious bodies that promote dialogue (for example, national and international councils), and global networks such as the Parliament of the World's Religions, and other interreligious organizations. Critics note challenges such as doctrinal sensitivity, power imbalances, and the risk of superficial engagement.

Overall, interreligious efforts aim to build understanding, reduce conflict, and enable collaboration on common concerns while respecting religious distinctiveness.