What is Religion and What We Get from It: Beyond Divisiveness to Inclusion
Religion plays a significant role in human society, functioning as a belief system centered around the worship of a supreme being or the acknowledgment of a higher power. Religion, whether it is in the form of organized doctrine or personal faith, aims to connect individuals with a broader sense of the divine and to provide guidance and meaning in life. In this article, we will explore the essence of religion, the true meaning of religious minds, and the benefits we can gain from different religious practices.
The Essence of Religion: Unity and Inclusion
While religion can often be associated with dividing people into groups, its true essence lies in the unity and inclusion of all people as a family. This inherent quality is rooted in the nature of a religious mind, which operates through supreme intelligence and pure love, transcending boundaries and divisions.
The Religious Mind: A Psychological and Inclusive Order
A religious mind is of the highest psychological order, characterized by an all-inclusive and non-divisive nature. It functions through supreme intelligence, which is characterized by pure love and compassion, devoid of any subject-object division. This makes the religious mind a sensitive and innocent one, operating beyond the realm of personal biases and prejudices.
The Current State of Religion and Its Impacts
Unfortunately, in contemporary times, religion often fails to live up to its true purpose, fostering division and hatred among different religious groups. Many people hold a narrow perspective, claiming their own religion is the best while perceiving others as enemies. This mindset leads to wars and violence, perpetuating a cycle of conflict without resolution.
The root of this issue lies in our ignorance and lack of true understanding of the principles of religion and dharma. To break this cycle, we must strive to understand the true essence of religion, recognizing our connection to all things and our shared humanity. This involves a deep exploration of religious truths and an open-minded approach to different interpretations and beliefs.
The Purpose of Religion and Its Spiritual Journey
At its core, religion serves the purpose of guiding people to the divine. It is like a vehicle that transports individuals to their spiritual destination. Once people reach their spiritual destination, they should focus on the journey and not be attached to the mode of transport. Many people become so attached to their religious practices that they forget the ultimate goal of connecting with the divine.
Religion also provides us with the freedom to transcend time, allowing us to live in the present moment. This present-moment awareness is essential for manifesting a divine and fulfilling life.
Personal Reflection and the Promise of All Religions
While different religions may have varying interpretations and beliefs, the common denominator is the promise of self-finding and seeking a higher purpose in life. However, it is clear that not all religions truly promote this growth and transformation. True faith and a commitment to personal growth are essential components of any spiritual journey.
As we continue to explore the deeper meanings of religion, it is crucial to maintain an open mind and a willingness to learn from different perspectives. This approach not only fosters greater understanding and inclusivity but also leads us closer to the ultimate truths that religion claims to reveal.