Religion For Peace: A Perspective From Hinduism

By Ven. Ramachandra Kurukkal Babu Sharma -July 26, 2013 

Ven. Ramachandra Kurukkal Babu Sharma

There are many reasons as to why people are drawn to a religious or spiritual way of life. Having faith in something bigger than us, can encourage strength in times of trial. Religion can provide us with a system for living. Religiousness makes every person to feel that we are together. In our heart we find godly peace and we might bring that peace to the world. As Dalai Lama said,

“This is my simple religion, there is no need for temples, no need for complicated philosophy, our own brain, our own heart is our temple and the philosophy is kindness.”

One thinks passionately today of Peace and Harmony only because the reality of our environment is war and disharmony. Throughout history we human beings have acted foolishly to precipitate war and disharmony and then when their effects become intolerable we yearn for Peace and Harmony while wallowing in misery and distress. At such times religious leaders have given leadership only because they had recognized the importance of altruism – that is the principle of considering the welfare and interests of others.

When leaders of Mankind set their societies on the path of altruism there was peace and tranquility in such societies, but when they deviated and dabbled in selfish on a selfish theory of morals concentrating upon themselves, their families, their particular community and so on ultimately such behavior led to disharmony, disagreement and discord.

When selfishness predominates in human relationships there would soon be discord and disagreements. When altruism prevails peace and harmony would result.

Let us next refer to the commonality of all religions in stressing the importance of altruism.

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