Religion as a source of conflict unthinkable, says Dalai Lama/ENG

2017. augusztus 14/Phayul.com/TibetPress

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By Tenzin Dharpo

DHARAMSHALA, Aug. 14: The exiled Tibetan leader who attended an interfaith meet in the Indian city of Mumbai on Sunday said that religion as a source of conflict and trigger for disharmony is unthinkable. The Buddhist leader said India having stood as a model for religious harmony should continue to hold its image in the world in that respect.

“Wherever I go, I tell people that with regard to religious harmony, India is a living example that religious traditions can live together in peace and respect,” the Tibetan leader told the congregation consisting of members of all faiths.

Reiterating his message on oneness of all human beings, the 82 year old said, “I am very happy to participate in this wonderful meeting, among spiritual leaders who not only carry out their own practice sincerely, but also take action to solve problems they encounter in a non-violent way. Mentally, emotionally and physically we are the same. Some of my friends here have a lot of hair on their faces, which I don’t, but basically we are the same.”

“In this country, ahimsa has, for thousands of years, characterized the path of action, but it is related to being motivated by karuna or compassion. On the one hand, if we have a self-centred attitude, an artificial smile and seek to deceive others with sweet words—that’s a kind of violence. On the other, when a parent or teacher, like my tutor, uses harsh words entirely out of concern for a child’s welfare, that’s non-violent,” the Nobel laureate further said.

Fellow participant and Muslim religious figure Maulana Dr. Kalbe Sadiq said that the ongoing Babri Masjid case should be seen as an opportunity for peace irrespective of the verdict from the top court in the country. He opined that if the judgment favors the Hindu community, his community should accept it, and if it favors the Muslim community they should offer land to the other party because making a gift is a way to resolve disputes.

Also present was yoga Guru Swami Ram Dev who by referring to the tension between China and India over the Doklam row suggested that although his country, a nation of religion is rooting for a peaceful resolution, war if necessitated by China will also be on the cards.

The interfaith meet organized by Jain leader Acharya Dr.Lokesh Muni was also attended by Giani Gurbachan Singh, Chief Jathedar of the Akal Takht, Archbishop Felix Anthony Machado, Union Power Minister Piyush Goyal, Union Minister for Science & Technology Dr. Harsh Vardhan and Bollywood actor and Ambassador for Peace Vivek Oberoi among others.

The Tibetan leader who had to cancel his visit to Botswana due to medical reasons is expected to return to his home in exile, Dharamshala tomorrow for recuperation.