ETHICAL DEVELOPMENT POSSIBLE THROUGH INTER-FAITH PARTNERSHIPS
Religions have two essential aspects—theology and ethics. While there are differences in the theologies of different religions, there is little difference between their basic ethical systems.
Theology relates to the set of beliefs or the doctrinal base of religion. In terms of theology, there are obvious differences between religions. For example, some religions have a monistic concept of the Divine, while others believe in a monotheistic concept of God. Differences of this kind have always been the subject of discussion among theologians, and no doubt they will continue to be so in the future. However, like other intellectual discussions about such differences, they are confined to scholars and have little to do with the ‘common’ people. The latter can live out their daily lives without concern or knowing about these issues. These matters concern a few individuals and not the masses of any society, generally speaking.
However, these theological differences are not simply matters about which people may be at odds with each other. They also have a positive role to play. In the sphere of religion, theological differences invite discussion, which can lead to intellectual exchange and necessitate knowing more and more about one’s faith as well as the religion of others. Thus, theological differences can result in intellectual progress by enhancing one’s level of thinking and awareness. In addition, it can lead to the overall development of religious discipline and understanding.
This shows that such differences are not an unwanted evil. On the contrary, they can be a great good. Therefore, differences have a positive role to play in religious development.
The second aspect of any religion is its ethical system and its code of moral conduct. In this area, there is little difference between various religions. Almost all religions broadly preach the same moral values to be followed in a person’s daily life.
Moral development is not simply a matter of individual conduct towards others. It is also profoundly related to the development of an individual’s personality. When one engages in good social behaviour, one is simultaneously engaged in the process of self-development. Good social behaviour is thus a great aid in building one’s character. Good social behaviour means positive behaviour and positive behaviour instills positive thinking. Good social behaviour makes one a good human being.
Every religion teaches its adherents to adopt a good moral standard. Hence, ethical principles from all faiths can be used to inculcate good moral conduct. Interfaith partnership in ethical training is sure to yield positive results. Such collaboration can focus on the ethical nurturing of individuals from different religious backgrounds in society, helping them become duty-conscious, peaceful, and giver members of the wider society. As more and more people become giver members of society, the process can play a major role in leading towards a more harmonious and peaceful society.
