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Respect for humankind is a fundamental teaching in all religions worldwide. Regardless of one’s own or another’s religious tradition, community affiliation, or whether they belong to a friendly or opposing group, every individual deserves respect.
This highlights the inherent dignity and worth of every person, which is a natural birthright, irrespective of community membership.
Humanity is the cornerstone of all religions, emphasizing unconditional love for all.
Religion, as a way of life and belief system, connects humanity with spirituality and often moral values. It is a foundational institution in society, universally present across cultures. The relationship between religion and humanity has always been intimate, as most religious practices involve human interactions and a connection with the divine.
Understanding religion is crucial when studying cross-cultural differences and similarities.
Religion ideally fulfills multiple functions: it provides meaning to life, reinforces social unity and stability, acts as an agent of social control, promotes psychological and physical well-being, and motivates people to work towards positive social change.In its purest form, religion fosters humanity among its followers, promoting human unity.
However, when religion is distorted, it can become a source of pride and division, with one group using it to assert superiority over others.
The concept of humanity is rooted in our relationship with God and with each other. For instance, the Bhagavad Gita teaches the importance of selfless service for the welfare of the world, stating that by devotion to such work, one attains the supreme goal of life.
The Holy Quran emphasises that nature serves humanity, God’s vice-regents on earth, and that everything in creation has a purpose, including humanity’s role in obeying God’s will.
Similarly, the Bible teaches that humans were created out of God’s love and are called to share that love, reflecting His image through caring for the world and each other.
The essence of religion lies in its ability to provide a sense of purpose to individuals and communities alike.