Communication needed to bond as humans

The Rev. Lew Hinshaw, retired associate pastor at Plymouth Congregational Church, 925 Vt., and leader of the Lawrence Community Religious Alliance:

The questions of why and how people of different faiths should and could interact are arguably the most important questions of our time.

A recent U.S. poll showed that 74 percent of respondents had a negative view of Islam. This tells us nothing about Islam. It speaks volumes about the ignorance and prejudice of the religious majority.

Interfaith interaction is needed so that we may bond as humankind. The lack of knowledge and understanding of people of other religions is the root of the irrational fear that leads to suspicion, mistrust, hatred and violence.

Religions seek to enhance human life rather than diminish it. By interacting with people of different faiths, we find our own lives enriched and enhanced.

Most interfaith interaction happens at the level of religious leadership. More is needed at the grass-roots level. Together this will create a global base for moral action addressing the grievous problems of war, economic and political injustice, hunger and pandemics.

Interfaith interaction embodies and acts out the crucial principles of the Constitution of secular government and the nonestablishment/nonprohibition of any religion.

Matthew Fox, an Episcopalian priest and author of more than two dozen books, writes, “It is time our species grew up. This means, among other things, that instead of relating religion to religion with our reptilian brains and our testosterone in high gear, we ought to relate religion to religion from our deepest hearts and most creative minds.”

– Send e-mail to Lew Hinshaw at revlew@knetconnect.net.

Diversity in viewpoints benefits everybody

Mehdi Khosh, member, Lawrence Bahai Community:

The concept of people of different faiths interacting is a central theme in the Bahai Faith. History shows us that people of different religions are in constant warfare, filled with enmity, hatred and bitterness toward each other. We should welcome initiatives designed to increase respect for different beliefs and understanding among different faiths.

Bahais regard human diversity as an asset. When we combine diverse faiths and draw upon the wisdom, knowledge and experience of each faith, this can solve complex problems more effectively than a single individual faith.

The goal of having different faiths interact is not to prove and win points, but to find the truth and live in harmony. Therefore, opinions of each faith are to be offered humbly, not as definitive and final, but as contributions to the collective effort. Each faith should consider carefully the views of others faiths and accept the best solution that emerges, given the problem at hand.

Baha’u’llah, the founder of the Bahai Faith, taught that all of the faiths are beneath the shadow and protection of the Almighty. He adds that God is compassionate and loving to all, that the revelations of all the prophets of the past have been in perfect unity and agreement, that the heavenly books have confirmed each other. Therefore, why should contention and strife exist among the people of the different faiths?

We live in a time in which we can clearly see each other as brothers and sisters and must strive to live our lives in accordance with ideals of love – not simply tolerance but acceptance.

– Send e-mail to Mehdi Khosh at mehdi@sunflower.com.