Do all religions emanate from one source – Book Review

Story by  ATV | Posted by  Aasha Khosa | Date 09-01-2025
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Pallab Bhattacharyya

Religion is the opium of the masses - Karl Marx

When I do good, I feel good when I do bad, I feel bad, and that is my religion - Abraham Lincoln

My religion is very simple. My religion is kindness - Dalai Lama

Science without religion is lame; religion without science is blind - Albert Einstein

Such diverse views on ancient religions call for an all-out deliberation on this important issue in the face of the present turmoil in the world. In the 21st Century, religious conflicts continue worldwide, and religion plays an unparalleled role in the lives of individuals and nations as the people and leaders pit one religious identity against another.

“Are all religions fundamentally different? What if we go back to the source texts of all religions? Will we find a mountain of differences or a sea of harmony?"

These are some questions that Trilochan Sastry, the Chairman, Founder Member, and Trustee of the now famous Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR) the Founder and Secretary of the Centre for Collective Development (CCD), and the Founder of Farmveda in his recent book The Essentials of World Religions delves into.

Religion has played a pivotal role in shaping cultures, societies, and individual lives. Among the myriad aspects of religion, mysticism stands out as a particularly intriguing element. Mysticism, often associated with miraculous events and spiritual phenomena, holds a significant place in the narratives of various faiths. The belief in miracles performed by divine messengers like the Prophet Jesus Christ illustrates the allure of mysticism.

However, the true essence of a prophet extends beyond the capacity to perform miracles. A genuine prophet transforms hearts and minds, bringing peace and happiness to individuals. This deeper, more personal connection is what truly defines spiritual leadership.

The universality of Islam, for instance, is often highlighted through its foundational principles known as the Five Pillars. Central to these is the belief in one God, Allah. This monotheistic principle resonates across various religions, underscoring the presence of a singular divine entity.

While the core message is similar, the interpretation of this divine presence varies among different faiths. Some perceive God as an internal presence, residing within the human soul, while others view Him as an external force governing the universe. This distinction in perception often leads to theological debates and discussions, yet at its heart, the belief in one God serves as a unifying thread among diverse religious traditions.

Religious conflicts, though often attributed to doctrinal differences, frequently stem from political and priestly influences rather than the core teachings of the faiths. Historical tensions in regions such as West Asia illustrate how religious teachings, fundamentally advocating peace and non-violence, can be manipulated for power struggles.

Trilochan Sastry and cover of his book

This manipulation leads to widespread misconceptions about religions, overshadowing their true teachings of compassion, empathy, and harmony. The misuse of religion for political gain not only distorts its essence but also fuels animosity and division among followers of different faiths.

Buddhism, with its unique perspective on suffering, offers a profound understanding of the human condition. It identifies birth, old age, and other life stages as inherent sources of suffering. This recognition aligns with the broader quest for meaning and peace that religions strive to address. By acknowledging the inevitability of suffering, Buddhism provides a framework for individuals to seek liberation from the cycles of pain and dissatisfaction. This introspective approach resonates with many people, offering a spiritual path that emphasizes mindfulness, compassion, and the pursuit of inner peace.

In today's world, religion continues to serve as a refuge amid life's uncertainties, offering comfort and security to countless individuals. As society grapples with complex challenges such as economic slowdowns, political extremism, and climate change, these issues exacerbate existing societal tensions.

Economic instability often leads to increased inequality, unemployment, and widespread discontent. Political extremism, fuelled by divisive ideologies, further polarizes communities, while climate change poses existential threats that disrupt livelihoods and alter traditional ways of living. In the face of such overwhelming challenges, religion often becomes both a source of solace and a point of contention.

These contemporary challenges are further compounded by the rapid spread of misinformation, cultural clashes, and the friction between different belief systems. The advent of digital technology has accelerated the dissemination of information, but it has also facilitated the spread of fake news and harmful stereotypes. This misinformation can amplify misunderstandings and tensions between different cultural and religious groups, creating an environment of mistrust and hostility.

As people navigate these turbulent times, religion often becomes a double-edged sword—providing comfort to some while serving as a source of conflict for others.

The advent of Judaism more than 3500 years back, Christianity in the first century CE, Islam in 610 CE Hinduism between 2300BCE and 1500 BCE, Buddhism in the 5th Century BCE, and Sikhism in the 15th Century took place in different historical, social, and political environments to address the issues in vogue at that point of time and this scenario should be properly understood by people of all religion to appreciate the various precepts of the religion. Non-understanding of these basic tenets is at the root of all the problems that humanity is facing today.

Understanding religion requires a comprehensive and nuanced approach, one that examines religious texts, interpretations, and the insights of spiritual leaders. This exploration reveals that while the essence of religions is profound, the way they are practiced and perceived can lead to conflicts. Recognizing this disparity is crucial in fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of diverse religious traditions. By engaging with the philosophical and spiritual depths that define these traditions, individuals can cultivate empathy, respect, and a genuine appreciation for the richness of human spirituality.

The study of world religions invites us to delve into the philosophical and spiritual depths that define human existence. It encourages a continuous pursuit of knowledge, underscoring the idea that true understanding lies in acknowledging the vastness of what we do not yet know.

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As we explore the essence of world religions, we are reminded of the shared values that unite us as human beings—the pursuit of truth, the quest for meaning, and the desire for connection with something greater than ourselves. Through this exploration, we can transcend the barriers that divide us, forging a path toward a more harmonious and compassionate world.

The Essentials of World Religions, Trilochan Sastry, India Viking, 256 pages, English

(The writer is a former DGP, Assam Police & former chairman of Assam Public Service Commission)