Why do we sometimes hear this statement? “I’m non-sectarian, universal, a follower of all religions. I’m a little bit of everything and a little bit of everybody. Please don’t classify me in any particular way.”
What does it mean to be a Universalist? Or what does it mean to be a believer in all faiths? Does this imply that we lack an understanding in our own faith? Does this further obscure what it means to be a Hindu? Sometimes, we unfortunately adopt this new trend of multi-religious, multiplicity of perspectives for the sake of diplomacy. However, trying to live a multiple identity destroys our comprehension of what it means to be singular in faith.
There is a fundamental challenge with professing to be all and everything as there are obvious contradictions amongst the various belief systems that exist. One cannot simply declare we believe in all faiths as all faiths simply do not believe in the same issues.
I offer by way of example the following differences between religions: Hinduism believes in karma. Karma is intrinsically linked to that cyclical concept of birth and death through reincarnation. Fundamental teachings of Christianity and Islam have absolutely no belief in reincarnation. This is heresy to them. To the Hindu, reincarnation and karma are fundamental beliefs that explain the differences among the physical, social, mental and spiritual aspects of humanity, and to extend further, between humanity and the animal world.
Secondly, Hindus profoundly believe in God realization within the self. This may be achieved through different avenues, that is, yoga, meditation, ‘tapasya’ or penance and devotional worship to achieve that understanding and oneness with God. Christianity and Islam do not concentrate on inner realization to achieve that spiritual bond. Hinduism stands in stark contrast to other religions because it does not believe in God-fearing or fire and brimstone but in God-loving, because actions can bring us to, or away from Him. It is up to us to overcome the obstacles in our path.
These are merely two differences that demonstrate the ramifications of proclaiming that we are Universalists. In essence, it takes away from one’s understanding of what it means to be Hindu. So know your stance; be firm; show your resolve and demonstrate your faith. Wisdom is only attained with the power of discretion to sift through the knowledge that surrounds us. Hindu Dharmatham Shakto Bhava.
