Understanding another with a compassionate heart is the key to peace and harmony; it is also synonymous with the interconnectedness that is at the core of nature.
The legend goes that when Kabir Das, the 15th century mystic poet and saint, passed away in Maghar, his Hindu and Muslim followers disputed over his remains-they wanted to bury him, according to their particular religious rites, since both sides believed Kabir belonged to their religion. The dispute turned into a major row, with both sides remaining rooted to their conviction about the faith that Kabir belonged to.
When some of the followers removed the shroud covering the dead body of Kabir, they were astonished to find a heap of flowers instead. Chastened, they distributed the flowers amongst themselves and completed the death rites, according to their own traditions and customs. I have visited this site-here the Hindu followers of Kabir (Kabir-panthis) offer prayers and, right beside this, you will find the tomb where the Maulavi offers prayers daily as per Islamic traditions. You will not miss the tremendous respect that these followers have for each other, co-existing without an iota of discordance.
In the 12th Chapter, Bhakti Yoga, of the Bhagwad Gita says: Sa niyamyendriyagrama sarvatra samabuddhaya te prapnuvanti mameva sarvabhutahite rata
Translated, it says, “One who has control over his sense organs, is equally disposed to all and has the welfare of all beings at heart is the ideal devotee or ‘bhakta’.” It is easy to see here that the idea of Manav Ekta-the oneness of humanity is based on these three things. A true bhakta is one who is able to put other’s needs ahead of his. This can be felt only when one’s heart is open to recognize and feel other people’s sufferings.
Understanding another with a compassionate heart is the key to peace and harmony; it is also synonymous with the interconnectedness that is at the core of nature. The line between individualism and selfishness is real thin. Not understanding the distinction between the two leads to a negativist attitude creating strife and conflict.
This is the time for peace. We are living in a situation today where there is violence all over the world. So, this is the time for us to be on guard and remember that all human beings are basically good. To have the welfare of all beings at heart, it is not easy but every effort should be there to follow this principle; alongside this, Sadhana (practice) is also required as the mind is very fickle always. Both for believers and non-believers, it is extremely difficult to keep the mind unwavering.
In the Holy Bible, Mathew 5:9, it says: ‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called the Children of God.” If one understands that everyone has a bit of Parabrahma (Supreme Godhead) within them, one cannot even think of harming anyone.
When we go to donate blood in a blood bank, do they ask us our religion or caste? Our interaction with others and our love for others determines our understanding of God. The message from all religions is that we should live together peacefully, respecting our differences.