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Jain religious tradition is ideally suited for an interreligious encounter.
Now I come to the question as to how cross-traditional tolerance, respect, and spiritual awareness can be developed. Since my religious tradition makes it mandatory for its followers to refrain from ridiculing, belittling and disparaging other traditions in thought, word, and deed, it gives no scope for its being in conflict with other faiths. There are many ways to achieve the goal of reconciliation. The first and foremost prerequisite for the fulfilment of this dream is the creation of a friendly environment. It makes it necessary for other religious groups to cut the barriers of isolation, avoid confinement to their dormitories and throw open the gates of their temples, churches, and synagogues to the followers of all other faiths. It has been observed that the main causes of religious conflict is the lack of interaction, ignorance, misunderstanding and narrowmindedness. We must endeavour to bring about a change in our outlook on religious beliefs. All major religions embody the ethic of tolerance. What is essential is putting this ideal into practice. Frequent interfaith meetings will go a long way in putting an end to suspicion, mistrust, hatred and alienation. It is a pity that despite the unanimous acceptance of the doctrine of universal brotherhood by all faiths, all major wars have been fought ostensibly to protect these faiths. Religion is what we do. It needs no protection. It is an ideal which has to do with the mind of man rather than with the rituals he preaches. All religious leaders should agree to pledge themselves to adhere to a moral code of conduct based on the principles of mutual respect, tolerance, non-interference in one another's religious affairs. Much will depend on religious heads' attitude and outlook. If they want they can be instrumental in realizing a dream of cross-cultural and cross-traditional tolerance.
Acharya Tulsi-Head of Terapantha Swetambar Jain sect has launched a bold initiative to bring all religious leaders on to a common platform. He started the Anuvrat Movement in 1949 which has now veritably emerged as a platform for not only interreligious encounters but interfaith unity and religious reconciliation. Anu (atomic), vrat (vow) i.e. anuvrat expects individuals and organizations to rise above their sects by accepting small vows. These vows, if truly followed, can usher in an era of reconciliation, dialogue and friendship.
I sum up my article with the hope that more and more people in
The Jain Religious Tradition
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