The Path of Peace: A 7000-Year Legacy of Non-Violence

ॐ

ॐ सह नाववतु |
सह नौ भुनक्तु |
सह वीर्यं करवावहै |
तेजस्विनावधीतमस्तु मा विद्विषावहै॥
ॐ शान्तिः शान्तिः शान्तिः॥

Om! May God protect us both together; may God nourish us both together;
May we work conjointly with great energy,
May our study be vigorous and effective;
May we not mutually dispute (or may we not hate any).
Om! Let there be peace in me!
Let there be peace in my environment!
Let there be peace in the forces that act on me!

ॐ द्यौः शान्तिरन्तरिक्षं शान्तिः
पृथिवी शान्तिरापः शान्तिरोषधयः शान्तिः । वनस्पतयः शान्तिर्विश्वेदेवाः शान्तिर्ब्रह्म शान्तिः
सर्वं शान्तिः शान्तिरेव शान्तिः सा मा शान्तिरेधि ॥
ॐ शान्तिः शान्तिः शान्तिः ॥
— यजुर्वेद ३६:१७

Let there be peace in my environment!
Let there be peace in the forces that act on me!

Om. May peace radiate in the sky and the vast ethereal space everywhere.
May peace reign in water, herbs, trees, and creepers all over this earth.
May peace flow over the whole universe.
May peace be in the Whole Universe. And may peace always exist alone.
Om peace, peace, and peace to us and all beings!
(Translation by Swami Abhedananda, Ramakrishna Vedanta Math, India)

Even today, in many schools across India, children start their day with such prayers. Reciting these verses during auspicious Hindu ceremonies is also a tradition.

BUDDHA

You cannot travel the path until you have become the path itself.

This emphasizes that true spiritual progress comes from embodying the values and principles of the journey rather than just following it externally.

One is not called a noble who harms living beings; one is called noble by not harming living beings.

This underlines the principle of non-violence (Ahimsa), a cornerstone of ethical living, where true nobility lies in kindness and respect for all life forms.

As I am, so are these. As are these, so am I. Drawing the parallel to yourself, neither kill nor get others to kill.”

This verse teaches empathy and interconnectedness, urging us to see ourselves in others and to avoid harm, fostering a world of mutual respect and peace.

These timeless insights remain as relevant today as they were in the past, guiding us toward a life of harmony and moral integrity.

MAHAVIRA

Nagamalai Pudukottai Jain rock cut Mahavira relief near Madurai Tamil Nadu India

Everyone is my friend; I have no enemies.

All souls are equal and share the same nature and qualities.

Live and let others live; do not harm anyone, as all life is precious.

Do not kill or cause pain. Nonviolence is the highest virtue.

The contrast between the two events marked by the same date, 9/11, reveals a profound irony in the course of human history:

September 11, 1893:

This day marked a milestone in global harmony, as the Parliament of Religions in Chicago brought together spiritual leaders from various faiths. It was a shared effort to foster understanding, dialogue, and reconciliation between civilizations and religions.

Swami Vivekananda’s iconic speech at the event called for universal acceptance and mutual respect, emphasizing unity amidst diversity.

September 11, 2001:

Over a century later, the same date witnessed one of the most devastating events in modern history—the terrorist attacks on the United States. The attacks symbolized a tragic clash of ideologies and a stark failure to reconcile differences, leading to immense loss and global repercussions.

The irony lies not only in the shared date but also in the location—the United States, a nation that hosted both the call for peace in 1893 and the horrors of conflict in 2001.

This duality serves as a reminder of humanity’s potential for unity and division. It challenges us to revisit the ideals of mutual respect and understanding championed in 1893 and to strive for a world where such tragedies no longer occur.

These inspiring words are from Swami Vivekananda’s speech at the Parliament of Religions in Chicago on September 11, 1893.

The excerpt beautifully captures the essence of India’s spiritual and cultural ethos, reflecting its unique tolerance, acceptance, and inclusivity tradition. Here’s a breakdown of its significance:

Tolerance and Universal Acceptance

Swami Vivekananda highlights the core principle of Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism), which teaches tolerance and universal acceptance. This philosophy acknowledges the validity of all religions and their paths to the divine.

India as a Sanctuary for the Persecuted

He proudly recounts India’s history of offering refuge to persecuted communities, such as:

The Israelites found shelter in Southern India after the destruction of their holy temple by the Romans.

The Zoroastrians (Parsis), fled to India from Persia and have thrived here while preserving their ancient faith.

A Nation of Spiritual Wealth

By quoting a hymn familiar from childhood, Vivekananda connects his message to the lived spirituality of millions, emphasizing the universality of Indian religious traditions.

This speech was a landmark moment in world history, showcasing India’s message of peace, unity, and respect for diversity. It remains a timeless reminder of the values needed for coexistence in a pluralistic world.

Hindu Philosophy and World Peace

Hindu philosophy, rooted in the ancient wisdom of the Vedas, Upanishads, and Bhagavad Gita, offers profound insights into fostering world peace.

Its teachings emphasize universal harmony, nonviolence, and interconnectedness, providing timeless principles for resolving global conflicts and achieving a peaceful coexistence.

---

1. Ahimsa (Nonviolence): The Core Principle

The principle of Ahimsa teaches that all living beings are interconnected and deserve respect and compassion. By avoiding harm in thought, word, or deed, individuals can contribute to a peaceful society.

Inspired by Hindu teachings, Gandhi’s philosophy of nonviolence became a powerful tool for social and political change, influencing global movements for peace.

---

2. Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (The World Is One Family)

This concept from the Mahopanishad encapsulates the idea of universal brotherhood. It teaches that humanity transcends boundaries, urging nations and individuals to work together for mutual welfare and peace.

---

3. Dharma: Ethical Living

Hindu philosophy emphasizes Dharma, or righteous living, as a path to harmony. Following one’s moral duty while respecting others’ rights ensures balance and avoids conflicts in personal and societal relationships.

---

4. Interconnectedness and Unity in Diversity

The Upanishadic teaching, Tat Tvam Asi (“You are that”), highlights the fundamental unity of all existence. Recognizing this interconnectedness dissolves divisions based on race, religion, or nationality, paving the way for global peace.

---

5. Tolerance and Acceptance

Hinduism preaches not just tolerance but universal acceptance. The Rig Veda proclaims:

“Ekam Sat Vipra Bahudha Vadanti” – “Truth is one, the wise call it by many names.”

This principle encourages respect for all religions and beliefs, fostering an environment of harmony and coexistence.

---

6. Meditation and Inner Peace

Hindu practices like yoga and meditation promote inner tranquility, essential for outer peace. A calm and centered individual contributes positively to their community and helps reduce conflicts.

---

7. Resolution of Conflict through Dialogue

Hindu epics like the Mahabharata demonstrate the importance of dialogue and negotiation. Lord Krishna’s attempts to mediate peace between the Pandavas and Kauravas highlight the value of addressing disputes through understanding and compromise.

---

Hindu Philosophy’s Global Relevance

Hindu philosophy serves as a beacon of hope for global peace in a world marked by strife and division. Its teachings urge humanity to rise above material pursuits and embrace spiritual values that promote unity, compassion, and harmony.

By adopting these principles, individuals and nations can work together to create a world where peace and understanding prevail.