On Islam

Vivekananda approached Islam with deep respect and a commitment to interfaith understanding, praising its emphasis on equality, brotherhood, and the direct relationship between the individual and God. He saw Islamic civilization as having played a vital historical role in challenging caste rigidity in India and bringing a spirit of social democracy to the subcontinent. While affirming the universality of Vedantic truth, he consistently upheld the dignity and contributions of Islam and called on Hindus and Muslims alike to recognize the underlying unity of all religions.