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This study analyses Islam as a religion of tolerance and dialogue based on textual analysis and historical interpretation of the Qur'an and Sunnah. It also supports its case by exploring the behaviour of early Muslim rulers towards those belonging to other religions. The study highlights that Islam plays a unique role in promoting religious tolerance and dialogue by providing freedom, justice and equal rights for all irrespective of their religion, culture and civilisation. Though some Qur'anic verses and the Prophetic traditions seem to be contradictory to dialogue and tolerance, upon examination, they are contextualised to particular contexts and circumstances. The study concludes that the teachings of the Qur'an, the Prophetic traditions and the treatment of early Muslim rulers support that Islam plays a vital role in promoting tolerance, dialogue and interreligious harmony in the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While Muslims universally acknowledge 'Ali ibn Abi Talib as one of the most prominent figures in Islamic history, a number of Malay customs and rituals give him a special status. These customs and rituals point to the historical influence of Sufism, Shi'ism, or a combination of the two during the process of identity formation among Muslims in the Malay Archipelago. This article will explore the special position given to 'Ali ibn Abi Talib in traditional Malay martial arts as well as marriage customs, and will show how ideas generated in other parts of the Islamic world - such as the futuwwah tradition - evolved into uniquely Malay forms of religious and cultural expression which transcend sectarian bounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]