The Philosophy of Peace and Harmony in Hinduism and Islam

Ahimsa: The Foundation of Non-Violence in Hinduism By Ghulam Ghaus Siddiqi, New Age Islam 20 March 2025 Main Points 1. The Concept of Peace in Hinduism and Islam 2. The Role of Harmony in Hinduism 3. Ahimsa (Non-Violence): A Path to Peace 4. The Path of Bhakti (Devotion) and Peace 5. Unity in Diversity: Hinduism's Embrace of All Paths 6. Defamation of Hinduism by Extremists … Hinduism, one of the oldest and most diverse religions in the world, is deeply ingrained with the values of peace and harmony. These principles are woven into its teachings, scriptures, rituals, and daily practices. Central to Hinduism’s message is the belief in the interconnectedness of all beings, a theme that encourages peaceful coexistence with nature, society, and individuals. The Concept of Peace in Hinduism and Islam Peace in Hinduism In Hindu philosophy, peace (Shanti) is not simply the absence of conflict but a state of inner balance and harmony that radiates to the external world. Attaining peace is considered a fundamental part of one's spiritual journey. Hinduism teaches that true peace comes from within, achieved through self-realization, righteous living (dharma), and a deep connection with the divine. This holistic approach to peace emphasizes harmony within oneself, relationships, and the broader universe. It is a key part of the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. Interestingly, this view of peace—where inner peace, spiritual discipline, and a connection with the divine are central—is also shared by Sufism in Islam. In Sufism, peace is achieved through knowledge, devotion, and a personal relationship with God. Both Hinduism and Sufism highlight the importance of inner realization as the path to overcoming life's challenges, suggesting that peace transcends external circumstances and is found in spiritual growth and devotion. Hinduism’s Shanti Mantra is a powerful invocation of peace that reflects this philosophy. The mantra, found in the Upanishads, calls for peace in all realms of existence: "Om Dyau Shanti, Antariksha Shanti, Prithvi Shanti, Apah Shanti, Oshadhayah Shanti, Vanaspatayah Shanti, Vishwadevah Shanti, Brahma Shanti, Sarvam Shanti, Shanti Reva Shanti, Sa Ma Shanti Redhi." This Mantra is a prayer for universal peace and harmony across all realms of existence. Here's the interpretation: "Om Dyau Shanti" – May there be peace in the heavens. "Antariksha Shanti" – May there be peace in the sky (atmosphere). "Prithvi Shanti" – May there be peace on Earth. "Apah Shanti" – May there be peace in the waters. "Oshadhayah Shanti" – May there be peace in the plants and herbs. "Vanaspatayah Shanti" – May there be peace in the trees and forests. "Vishwadevah Shanti" – May there be peace among all divine beings (or cosmic forces). "Brahma Shanti" – May there be peace in the ultimate reality (Brahman). "Sarvam Shanti" – May there be peace everywhere. "Shanti Reva Shanti" – Peace itself is peace (may peace prevail in its entirety). "Sa Ma Shanti Redhi" – May this peace reach and abide in me. This mantra emphasizes the desire for peace across all layers of existence—cosmic, natural, and spiritual—while also seeking inner tranquillity. It reflects the comprehensive vision of peace in Hinduism, encompassing the individual, society, nature, and the cosmos. Peace in Islam In Islam, peace is an essential part of the faith, and it is regularly invoked in prayers. After the five daily prayers, one of the most significant prayers recited is: "اللهم أنت السلام ومنك السلام وإليك يعود السلام فحيّينا ربنا بالسلام وأدخلنا دار السلام تباركت وتعاليت ياذا الجلال والإكرام." Transliteration: Allāhumma Anta As-Salām Wa Minka As-Salām Wa Ilayka Ya‘ūdu As-Salām Fa-Ḥayyinā Rabbanā Bi-Salām Wa Adkhilnā Dār As-Salām Tabārakta Wa Ta‘ālayta Yā Dhā Al-Jalāli Wa Al-Ikrām. Let’s break down this beautiful prayer and its profound meanings: Allāhumma Anta As-Salām ("O Allah, You are peace") This phrase affirms that Allah is not just the source of peace, but that He is peace itself. The concept of peace in Islam goes beyond the mere absence of conflict; it represents a state of tranquillity, balance, and harmony that Allah embodies. This phrase invites the believer to recognize that true peace originates from Allah alone. Wa Minka As-Salām ("and peace comes from You") Here, the believer acknowledges that all forms of peace—whether personal, societal, or universal—are gifts from Allah. It serves as a reminder that, especially during times of difficulty, Muslims should turn to Allah for peace, trusting that He alone has the power to restore tranquillity in their hearts and lives. Wa Ilayka Ya‘ūdu As-Salām ("and to You peace returns") This line reinforces the belief that peace, like everything else, ultimately returns to Allah. Whether in life or death, true and eternal peace resides with Him in the Hereafter. This understanding of peace as a transient gift reminds the believer to seek lasting peace through their connection to Allah. Fa-Ḥayyinā Rabbanā Bi-Salām ("so grant us life, our Lord, with peace") This part of the prayer asks Allah to grant peace in every aspect of life, not just physical existence but spiritual tranquillity. The believer prays for a life free from turmoil, anxiety, and stress—a life that is aligned with divine peace and harmony. Wa Adkhilnā Dār As-Salām ("and enter us into the Home of Peace") The phrase invokes the hope of entering Dar as-Salam, or the Home of Peace, which refers to Paradise (Jannah) in the afterlife. It is a place where peace reigns eternally, free from suffering, pain, and conflict. The believer hopes for eternal peace and happiness in the presence of Allah. Tabārakta Wa Ta‘ālayta ("Blessed and exalted are You") This acknowledges Allah’s ultimate greatness and majesty. It emphasizes that His divine attributes are beyond human comprehension, and His power to bestow peace is unmatched. Yā Dhā Al-Jalāli Wa Al-Ikrām ("O Possessor of Glory and Honour") The final phrase reminds the believer of Allah’s glory and honour. By invoking these attributes, the believer expresses their submission to Allah’s supreme authority, reinforcing the belief that all peace, glory, and honour stem from Him alone. Both Hinduism and Islam share a deep, spiritual understanding of peace that transcends external circumstances. In Hinduism, peace is sought through self-realization, dharma, and a connection with the divine, while in Islam, peace is a divine attribute, one that flows from Allah and ultimately returns to Him. Both faiths emphasize the need for inner peace as the foundation for achieving harmony with the universe. The prayers and teachings in both traditions offer a spiritual path that guides believers towards achieving peace, not just in this life but in the eternal life that follows. The Role of Harmony in Hinduism Harmony is another cornerstone of Hindu philosophy. Hinduism advocates for the harmonious existence of all beings, emphasizing unity, non-violence (Ahimsa), and respect for all life forms. The ancient scriptures such as the Bhagavad Gita, the Upanishads, and the Vedas present teachings that encourage humans to live in harmony with nature and with one another. The concept of Dharma, or righteous living, encourages individuals to follow a path that promotes social and spiritual harmony. Dharma emphasizes the importance of living in accordance with universal laws, which ultimately leads to the well-being and balance of society. It is through practicing Dharma that individuals can contribute to the larger harmony of the world, promoting unity in diversity. Ahimsa (Non-Violence): A Path to Peace The principle of Ahimsa (non-violence) is perhaps one of the most powerful teachings of Hinduism when it comes to promoting peace and harmony. The concept, which was famously popularized by Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi (2 October 1869 – 30 January 1948), is rooted deeply in Hindu thought. Ahimsa teaches that harm to any living being, whether physical or mental, disrupts the balance of the universe and creates suffering. The Mahabharata, one of the most revered texts in Hinduism, declares that "the soul of every being is the same; therefore, harming another is tantamount to harming oneself." This belief emphasizes the interconnectedness of all life forms and promotes peaceful and compassionate living. Ahimsa is not limited to abstaining from violence against humans; it extends to all forms of life. It encourages the avoidance of cruelty to animals, environmental conservation, and the practice of kindness in all interactions. The Path of Bhakti (Devotion) and Peace Bhakti, the path of devotion to God, is another significant aspect of Hinduism that fosters peace and harmony. Devotees who follow the path of Bhakti believe that surrendering to God and cultivating love and devotion for the divine brings inner peace and stability. This devotion transcends all forms of division, whether they are based on caste, race, or social status, and promotes equality, respect, and unity among all. In the Bhagavad Gita, Shri Krishna teaches the importance of devotion and surrender to God as a means of attaining peace. He assures Arjuna that those who dedicate their lives to God’s service with love and compassion will attain eternal peace and liberation (Moksha). Unity in Diversity: Hinduism's Embrace of All Paths One of the most remarkable aspects of Hinduism is its emphasis on unity in diversity. Hinduism does not promote a single, exclusive path to God; rather, it acknowledges that different people may follow different paths, all of which ultimately lead to the same goal—self-realization and union with the divine. This acceptance of different beliefs and practices promotes an environment of tolerance, respect, and peaceful coexistence. The Rigveda, one of the oldest sacred texts of Hinduism, expresses this idea beautifully: "Ekam sat vipra bahudha vadanti," meaning "Truth is one, but the wise call it by many names." This understanding encourages individuals to see beyond superficial differences and recognize the common essence that binds all of humanity together. Defamation of Hinduism by Extremists While Hinduism is a religion that deeply values peace, compassion, and harmony, it is unfortunate that, in some parts of the world, particularly in India, the true teachings of Hinduism are being distorted and misrepresented. There have been instances where so-called followers of Hinduism have engaged in acts of violence, such as raising slogans against Muslims wearing traditional attire like the Topi, Kurta, Pyjama, or Muslim women dressed in the Burqa, Hijab, or other Islamic dress codes. These individuals have also attacked mosques, incited riots, and committed lynchings. Such actions are in direct contradiction to the core values of Hinduism and do not reflect its true essence. Hinduism, at its heart, advocates for non-violence (Ahimsa), love for all living beings, and peaceful coexistence. The acts of hatred and violence being committed in the name of religion are not in line with these teachings. Unfortunately, some individuals, driven by political agendas, manipulate the religion for their own nefarious purposes, attempting to create divisions and fuel animosity between different communities. These acts are driven by power struggles, not religious beliefs, and are often used as tools to gain political leverage or create unrest. True followers of Hinduism, who understand and embrace its principles of peace, love, and unity, must stand against such actions and condemn them. The idea of using religion as a tool for political gain is a corruption of the core values of Hinduism, and it is crucial for all to recognize that these violent actions are not representative of the true spirit of the religion. In conclusion, Hinduism has always promoted the idea of unity in diversity, the acceptance of all paths to the divine, and the importance of peace and harmony. In this light, it is vital for all followers of Hinduism to reject any form of violence, intolerance, or hate in the name of religion and instead uphold the values of peace, understanding, and respect for all people, regardless of their faith, background, or identity. … Ghulam Ghaus Siddiqi Dehlvi, a regular columnist for NewAgeIslam.com, is a classical Islamic scholar with a profound Sufi Madrasa background and expertise in English-Arabic-Urdu translation. His articles on New Age Islam can be accessed through the following link: https://www.newageislam.com/a/ghulam-ghaus?page=1 URL: https://www.newageislam.com/interfaith-dialogue/peace-harmony-in-hinduism-and-islam/d/134925 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism