Lanka needs religious unity in diversity - Editorial

Inter-religious dialogue and an all-religions solidarity alliance for unity in diversity appear to be the most effective way out of the current socio-political and socio-economic crises where most issues and transactions have been plagued by party politics or corruption.

Some weeks ago the Daily Mirror spotlighted a comprehensive proposal made by gynaecologist Dr. L.A.W. Sirisena for an on-going process of religious unity in diversity. Essentially this proposal is intended to help people of one religion understated the core teachings, values and virtues of other religions so that they will respect other religions. Dr. Sirisena pointed out that Sri Lanka has far too many holidays - possibly the highest number in the world - and that some of these holidays could be made use of to promote religious harmony. For instance he proposes that on Poya days, except for Vesak and Poson, children and employees could gather in their schools and workplaces where religious observances will be held for the first two hours. Those of all religions will take part and it will end with fellowship and tea. After that, they go for classes or for work. A similar pattern will be followed on Hindu, Christian or Islamic religious holidays. In this way Dr. Sirisena believes there will be a growing understanding and respect for each other’s religions while education and the economy will also benefit with more classes or work being done.

If Buddhists live the Dhamma, if Hindus live their religious precepts, if Christians live the Gospel and Muslims the Koran, there will be deep unity, honesty, transparency and accountability and a more equitable distribution of wealth and resources.
This must begin with our political and other leaders. They must not only proclaim their religious precepts but also live them. In the parable of the sower there are four categories of people - those who only hear the religious teachings, those who hear and understand the teachings but forget them after some time, those who understand the teachings and live them for some time but go astray when tribulations come, and those who sincerely live the teachings whatever the problems or conflicts. It is the fourth category who will produce the fruit of love, peace, joy, patience, kindness, humility, meekness, forgiveness, compassion and self-sacrifice.

Unfortunately the political scene specially is filled with hypocrisy, self-righteousness and those who are known to be sanctimonious humbugs. The core of all major religions is the power of liberative spirituality where people are liberated from their slavery to selfishness and self-centredness or the desire for power, prestige and popularity. Unless and until our political and other leaders experience this inner liberation and become sincere, selfless servant leaders of the people, Sri Lanka cannot proceed far on the road to lasting religious unity.