God is One, and the essence of all religions is the same.
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| God is One, and the essence of all religions is the same. |
The fundamental principles of truth, non-violence, love, compassion, mercy, sacrifice, chastity, morality, honesty, and conscientiousness are at the heart of every religion. Additionally, a common thread across major religions is the pursuit of transcendence, fostering a sense of universal unity and a diminished emphasis on individual identity. While diverse in their approaches, followers of all religions share the worship of a supreme deity. सत्य, अहिंसा, प्रेम, करूणा, दया, त्याग, शुद्धता, नैतिकता, ईमानदारी और कर्तव्यनिष्ठा आदि सभी धर्मो का सार है।
It is noteworthy to highlight that in the contemporary world, over 85% of the global population adheres to a religious belief system, establishing religion as a foundational institution in societies worldwide. This universal phenomenon transcends geographic and cultural boundaries. The dynamic interplay between religion and society is in a constant state of flux. Religion assumes a crucial role in societal regulation, imparting specific codes of conduct and laws to guide human behavior.
At present, the distribution of religious affiliations shows that 31.5% of the population identifies as Christian, 23.2% as Muslim, 15.0% as Hindu, 7.1% as Buddhist, 5.9% as followers of Folk religion, with other religions accounting for 1%, and 16.3% professing Irreligion. The teachings of various religious texts emphasize the submission to a higher power as the quintessential way of life for both individuals and the universe, underscored by a shared commitment to humanity. In the case of Christianity, the Bible stands as its primary religious scripture.
The sacred Bible imparts essential principles:
1.Uphold Righteousness.
2.Embrace Authority.
3.Cultivate Love for Others.
4.Practice Humility.
5.Exercise Prudent Financial Stewardship.
6.Acknowledge the Law of Sowing and Reaping.
7.Foster Conflict Resolution Skills.
The Quran imparts vital teachings:
1.Extend respect and honor to all individuals, regardless of their religion, color, race, gender, language, social status, wealth, birth, or profession.
2.Uphold truthfulness, avoiding deceptive and boastful language, and distinguishing clearly between truth and falsehood.
3.Communicate in a civilized manner, using language recognized by society.
4.Refrain from idle talk, correcting any unintentional misconduct promptly.
5.Exercise humility and avoid arrogance, especially when lacking complete knowledge on a subject; choose silence over speaking without certainty.
6.Presume innocence in others until proven guilty with credible evidence.
7.Scrutinize information independently; do not blindly follow unverified knowledge. In the divine court, accountability extends to one's faculties of perception, observation, and reasoning.
Although there are *26 Controversial Verses of Quran and some from Hadith
Life-altering teachings from the Buddhist scriptures include:
1.Love heals all.
2.Actions reveal character; wisdom lies in love, peace, and courage.
3.Good health comes from living fully in the present.
4.Awakening happens by looking within.
5.Words can harm or heal; true change comes from kind, truthful words.
6.Walk your own path with self-reliance.
7.Shared happiness grows like a shared flame.
8.Be kind to all—young, old, striving, or weak.
9.Truth always emerges.
10.Master your mind, or it will rule you.
11.Trust unites; doubt divides.
12.Spirituality is essential. Inner peace is found within.
13.Transform envy into admiration.
14.Detach from possessions; embrace selflessness.
15.Prioritize love, Choose uplifting friends wisely.
16.Happiness is the journey itself.
Sanatan Dharma:
Sanatan Dharma is the world’s oldest living religion, often referred to as the eternal religion. It is timeless and universal. Other religions can be viewed as branches or sects that have emerged from the eternal truths of Sanatan Dharma, shaped by different eras, cultures, and interpretations.
Sanatan Dharma (Hinduism):-
Hinduism, recognized as the world's oldest living religion and the third-largest, boasting over 1 billion followers, stands behind Christianity and Islam in terms of global adherence.
The primary scriptures of Hinduism, namely the Bhagavad Gita, Vedas, and Puranas, form the core of this ancient belief system known as Sanatana Dharma, which is now commonly referred to as Hinduism or Hindu Dharma. Remarkably, Hinduism shares a commonality with other religions in that the essential substance and overarching meaning of its scriptures align with those of other religious texts.
The Essence of Srimad Bhagavad Gita:
The Srimad Bhagavad Gita, often referred to as the Gita, is a revered Hindu scripture that contains profound teachings on various aspects of life. The Gita was spoken by Lord Krishna, who is the Supreme Soul, so it is the most authentic. Here are some life-changing lessons that individuals often draw from the Bhagavad Gita: The gist of the Bhagavad Gita can be summarized as follows:
Gist of the Bhagavad Gita:
The Bhagavad Gita is a sacred dialogue between Lord Krishna and the warrior Arjuna, set on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. It addresses the moral, spiritual, and philosophical dilemmas faced by every human being.
At its core, the Gita teaches:
1.Dharma (Righteous Duty):
One must perform their duty selflessly, without attachment to success or failure.
2.Karma Yoga (Path of Action):
Action should be performed as an offering to the Divine, without desire for personal gain.
3.Jnana Yoga (Path of Knowledge):
True wisdom lies in understanding the difference between the eternal soul (Atman) and the temporary body.
4.Bhakti Yoga (Path of Devotion):
Loving devotion to God is the highest form of spiritual practice, leading to liberation.
5.Detachment and Balance:
Remain calm in success and failure, pleasure and pain, as part of equanimity and spiritual growth.
6.The Eternal Self:
The soul is eternal, indestructible, and beyond birth and death.
Ultimately, the Gita guides individuals toward self-realization, inner peace, and union with the Divine, encouraging a life of purpose, virtue, and surrender to the higher truth.
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| Vedas |
Gist of the Vedas:
The Vedas are the oldest and most revered scriptures of Sanatan Dharma, regarded as divine knowledge (Śruti) revealed to ancient sages (rishis). There are four Vedas—Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda, and Atharvaveda—each containing hymns, rituals, philosophy, and spiritual wisdom.
At their core, the Vedas teach:
1.The Oneness of the Divine:
There is one supreme, formless, all-pervading reality (Brahman), known by many names.
2.Harmony with Nature and Cosmos:
Life is to be lived in alignment with the rhythms of nature and universal order (Rta).
3.Dharma and Righteous Living:
The Vedas emphasize moral conduct, truth, self-discipline, and fulfilling one’s duties responsibly.
4.Yajna (Sacrifice) and Devotion:
Rituals and offerings are symbolic acts of gratitude and connection to the divine forces of the universe.
5.Pursuit of Knowledge and Liberation:
The ultimate goal of life is Moksha (liberation) through knowledge (Jnana), right action (Karma), and devotion (Bhakti).
6.Inner Realization:
True knowledge lies in realizing the divine Self (Atman) within, which is non-different from the Supreme (Brahman).
In essence, the Vedas guide humanity toward a life of balance, awareness, and unity with the eternal truth.
Conclusion
At their essence, all religions uphold universal values—love, compassion, kindness, humility, forgiveness, and the pursuit of truth. These timeless principles are meant to guide humanity toward a life of meaning, harmony, and spiritual fulfillment.
Over the centuries, cultural, historical, and social influences have shaped the interpretation of core teachings. Differences in language, geography, evolving social norms, and the perspectives of influential leaders have played a significant role in shaping the diversity of doctrines, rituals, and beliefs across cultures and religions. As a result, the original essence of these teachings can sometimes be overshadowed by varying interpretations and practices, leading to divisions where unity once existed.
Yet, when we look beyond the surface and reconnect with the shared heart of all spiritual paths, we find a common thread—one that can inspire understanding, unity, and peace across humanity.
I conclude this article with heartfelt warmth, best wishes, love, and deep gratitude to all. May we walk together in the light of truth and compassion.
Thank you, and please take a moment to read this poem at the end.
God Is One
In a land of many faiths and creeds,
Where gods were named for wants and needs,
A spoke to B with a boastful claim,
"My god's the greatest, the holiest name."
Then C to D, with voice held high,
"My god's above yours, reaching the sky."
Yet in the silence beyond their pride,
A gentle voice, the truth implied.
"I am the One, the All, the Whole,
Not bound by name, nor creed, nor role.
I live in hearts, in breath, in light,
Equal to all, beyond your sight.
