A Peaceful World : Swami Nikhilananda Saraswati

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Wednesday, January 18, 2023. 06:00.

A Peaceful World : Swami Nikhilananda Saraswati

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  Is there an alternative to peace? If there is no peace in this world, is it possible to find a substitute for it? Upon reflection we realise that there are no alternatives or substitutes for peace.  Without peace there will be chaos, confusion and destruction. Peace is very important for individuals, communities as well as the world. How can we bring about peace in this world?

When we observe this world what strikes us is the astounding diversity in this world.  In the good old days if one wanted to buy toothpaste then only a few varieties were available. Nowadays one is presented with an unbelievable choice. This is true of most products ranging from soaps and shampoos to cars, computers, TVs and mobiles. The variety becomes confusing. In the same way when we look at this world of living beings, there are innumerable types of beings on earth. The variations in human beings alone are mind boggling. There are differences in our living habits, eating habits, mode of dress.  There are so many differences. It is said in our scriptures that when we see differences, conflict, anger, hatred, jealousy, rivalry will follow.

In India itself we have so many regional differences - languages, religions, variation in food and dress. We have different states and there is interstate rivalry and conflict. One state is not ready to give water to its neighbouring state. How can we resolve these conflicts and bring about peace? What is the secret of bringing peace into our life, the community and the world at large?  According to our scriptures one approach is to see the oneness underlying the diversity. We may have external differences but still there is an oneness, something which connects all of us.  What is it that connects us all? All of us are human, all of us are humane. Humanity connects all of us. Whether we are born Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, or Christians all of us are human beings. And that is the most significant thing. Wherever I go, I see other human beings and I feel the connection. Similarly if I look at other beings- animals, birds, plants, I will see that the life in me is the same life in animals, birds and plants also.  Just as I am alive, animals and birds are also alive. I will feel the sense of connection. Nowadays scientists have not only explored our planet Earth but they are also exploring other planets to find evidence of life

 Thus we are all connected. If we are able to understand that connection we will be able to experience a great sense of love and peace. In the Bhagavad Gita Bhagavan says that one who sees me, the divinity in all can be called a wise person, a saint. One thing common to all irrespective of religion is divinity. Changing my vision and seeing the oneness in all will help me to bring about peace in world. This is the message which is given to us by God. It is not only given to Hindus but to people of all faiths. God will not give different and conflicting messages. Humans are one. Our hunger is one, food is one. Our thirst is one and water is one. If I am thirsty then water quenches my thirst. If you are thirsty then the same water quenches your thirst. Water is one which is given to us by God. All of us are sitting in this hall and breathing the same oxygen. Similarly the same message of love, kindness, brotherhood, generosity and compassion is given in all the religions of this world. Our problem is that sometimes we do not understand the message of God correctly or completely. They are words. When we have masters to explain these words then it becomes easy for us to understand and follow them.  So it is important that we should bring the vision of oneness into our lives.


The author is the Regional Head of Chinmaya Mission - Delhi NCR.

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