Ohr Torah Interfaith Center

Muslim and Jewish organisations in New Zealand have signed a bold Harmony Accord, pledging respect, coexistence, and continued advocacy. It’s a powerful signal of principled unity. Backed by government leaders and community voices, it’s a moment to remember. At OTIC, we believe…

Can faith and diverse identities unlock the path to peace in the Middle East? Rabbi Dr. Aharon Ariel Lavi sends a message of solidarity to our Druze brothers and sisters. Amid the complex identities and conflicts challenging the Middle East, OTIC rabbis are working closely with…

History proves that religious relations can change but with vision and courage. Jules Isaac’s meeting with the Pope after the Holocaust helped reshape Catholic teachings about Jews. As a French historian and educator, he played a pivotal role in improving Catholic-Jewish…

How can Jewish and Muslim communities heal after trauma? Rabbi Yakov Nagen offers a hopeful vision rooted in faith, empathy, and shared values. Explore the full article here: nexus.haifa.ac.il/healing-jewish…

Did Abraham almost sacrifice Ishmael or Isaac? The Jewish tradition (Genesis 22) clearly identifies Isaac, while many Islamic interpretations (Qur’an 37:102–107) suggest Ishmael. Yet, in both traditions, the moment of divine intervention affirms that human life must be…

Discover the heart of our community in the latest OTIC Newsletter! Find out in the latest OTIC Newsletter—featuring inspiring stories, deep Torah insights, and upcoming opportunities to connect. Join us on this journey of connection and learning. Read, subscribe & share:…

After an arson attack on a synagogue, Melbourne’s faith leaders including OTIC fellow Rabbi Ralph Genende, stood united. A moving act of courage and love. 🕊 Read more: melbournecatholic.org/news/no-place-…

Houses of worship should never be targets of hate. The recent arson attack on a synagogue in Melbourne and other antisemitic incidents across the city are deeply disturbing. This kind of violence is not just illegal, but it strikes at the heart of our communities' safety and…

The Quran gave Jews the name People of the Book… but what does that really mean? And what do we, the People of the Book, have to say back? This series takes a deep, respectful dive into the verses, exploring if religion can be more than a dividing line. Can it become a…

Religion can and should shape peace! Yesterday Rabbi Dr. Aharon Ariel Lavi presented OTIC’s theory of change at @inssisrael His message: work with faith leaders to make religion part of the solution The live interfaith conversation that followed showed how it’s done

What if the God you love, pray to, and are loved by is the very same God that others serve, pray to, and are loved by? The answer to this question can transform everything.

Noahide laws teach moral restraint. But religions like Islam & Christianity combine ethics with transcendence. As Malachi said: “My name is great among the nations.” So too should we recognize this. Real faith respects sincere worship in others.

Why does the world obsess over the Middle East? Do religious identities connect us or conflict us? Until we address this, regional conflicts will persist.

JOINT STATEMENT BY THE GLOBAL IMAMS COUNCIL AND THE CONFERENCE OF IMAMS OF FRANCE ON DEVELOPMENTS CONCERNING THE REGIME IN IRAN 24 JUNE 2025

“This is not about Jews or Muslims. It’s about life versus the machinery of death.” A Syrian voice speaks directly to Israelis — not in politics, but in pain and courage. Not against faith, but against those who weaponize it. “We know what it means to be abandoned.” He offers…

Both Jews and Muslims call Abraham “Friend of God.” The Quran calls him “an imam for all humanity.” Maimonides calls him “the pillar of the world.” We honor Abraham’s legacy as a symbol of shared roots. A guidepost of connection rather than division.