Welcome back to "A Word from the Vine." I'm Pastor Loren Christensen. Now let's continue our series on the universality of the Golden Rule by turning our attention to how other religions of the world also integrate the Golden Rule into their teachings.
Jainism: “One should treat all creatures in the world as one would like to be treated.” (Mahavira, Sutrakritanga 1.11.33)
Jainism teaches us the principle of "ahimsa," or non-violence, which extends to all living beings and, as we have seen, is also prominent in the religions of Buddhism and Hinduism. This version of the Golden Rule emphasizes the importance of treating every creature with the same kindness and respect that we desire for ourselves. It calls us to live with compassion and mindfulness, ensuring that our actions do not cause harm to any living being.
Sikhism: “I am a stranger to no one; and no one is a stranger to me. Indeed, I am a friend to all.” (Guru Granth Sahib, p.1299)
In Sikhism, the principle of universal friendship and equality is paramount. This teaching encourages us to see everyone as a friend and to treat all people with kindness and respect. It reflects the Sikh belief in the oneness of humanity and the importance of living in harmony with others.
Bahá’í Faith: “Lay not on any soul a load that you would not wish to be laid upon you, and desire not for anyone the things you would not desire for yourself.” (Bahá’u’lláh, Gleanings)
The Bahá’í Faith emphasizes the importance of fairness and empathy. This version of the Golden Rule calls us to consider the burdens we place on others and to ensure that we treat everyone with the same fairness and consideration that we seek for ourselves. It is a call to live with integrity and compassion.
Taoism: “Regard your neighbor’s gain as your own gain and your neighbor’s loss as your own loss.” (Lao Tzu, T’ai Shang Kan Ying P’ien, 213-218)
Taoism teaches us to see ourselves as interconnected with others. This version of the Golden Rule encourages us to share in the joys and sorrows of our neighbors, fostering a sense of unity and empathy. It calls us to act with kindness and to support one another in times of need.
Native Spirituality: “We are as much alive as we keep the earth alive.” (Chief Dan George)
Native Spirituality emphasizes the interconnectedness of all life. This teaching reminds us that our well-being is tied to the well-being of the earth and all its inhabitants. It calls us to live in harmony with nature and to treat the earth and all living beings with respect and care.
Unitarianism: “We affirm and promote respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.” (Unitarian principle)
Unitarianism highlights the importance of recognizing our interconnectedness with all existence. This principle calls us to respect and care for the web of life, promoting a sense of responsibility and compassion for all beings. It encourages us to act with kindness and to contribute to the well-being of the entire community.
Zoroastrianism: “Do not do unto others whatever is injurious to yourself.” (Shayast-na-Shayast 13.29)
Zoroastrianism teaches us to avoid actions that would cause harm to others. This version of the Golden Rule emphasizes the importance of considering the impact of our actions and ensuring that we do not inflict harm on others. It calls us to live with integrity and to act in ways that promote peace and well-being.
These brief mentions of other religions highlight the universal nature of the Golden Rule across various religious traditions, each emphasizing empathy, compassion, and the importance of treating others with kindness and respect. Let us be inspired by these teachings to live out the Golden Rule in our own lives, fostering a world where empathy and compassion are at the heart of all we do.
Thanks for joining me today.
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