Said Nursi and the Qur’anic Vision of Coexistence: Rethinking Civilizational Dialogue in an Age of Polarization

This study examines the thought of Bediuzzaman Said Nursi as articulated in Risale-i Nur, proposing it as a hermeneutic and civilizational praxis for fostering coexistence in a polarized world. Rooted in the Qur’anic principles of tawhid (Divine Unity), rahmah (compassion), and ʿadl (justice), Nursi’s framework transcends apologetics to offer a transformational model of dialogue. Key concepts such as maʿna-yi harfi (symbolic hermeneutics), hizmet (service), and the darshane (learning circle) are analyzed to demonstrate how Nursi reconciles revelation with reason and tradition with modernity. This research adopts a qualitative, thematic analysis of primary texts and contemporary scholarly discourse, arguing that Risale-i Nur provides an ethical and epistemological foundation for interreligious and intercultural engagement based on taʿaruf (mutual recognition). The findings position Risale-i Nur as a vital civilizational manuscript that addresses modern challenges while remaining anchored in Islamic core values.

Said Nursi, Risale-i Nur, Civilizational Dialogue

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