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still adhere to the basic belief but would make certain exceptions, notably the Second World War, in which many were conscientious objectors but others fought. Today, many Quakers are exploring the connection between peace, justice and reconciliation, and are active in campaigns on these issues at local, national and international levels. Some Quakers, using non-violent techniques, are engaged in civil disobedience in their campaign for disarmament, others hold vigils in protest against weapons of mass destruction and the waste of resources caused by the arms race.
Charles Milligan/Quaker Life
Quakerism, then, is a group of insights, attitudes and practices, which together form a way of life rather than dogma or creed. It rests on the conviction that people can have a direct communication with God. Quakers try to follow the example of Jesus Christ in a loving response to God and those around them. They try to live in the spirit of forgiving love that was shown in Jesus' life and death and has been a living source of strength and inspiration to his followers ever since. They learn from the teachings and writings of other religions too and also from wise people of no religion.
Early Quakers were rejected from mainstream society and were barred from many professions and universities. Consequently, many became involved in the business world. Although obviously the old restrictions do not apply now and Quakers are involved in the same range of jobs and professions as anybody else, there are still many in business. The accumulation of wealth is not particularly encouraged and we are still expected to live simply, but I have met some quite wealthy Quakers, especially in America. Like the Jains, it is more a question of acquiring wealth ethically and spending it wisely and unselfishly, rather than the amount you have.
I have tried to describe the Quaker way here in this country as I have experienced it, but as there are about 240,000 Quakers world wide, there are great differences in language and culture, in the form of worship, and even in some of their beliefs. There are meetings in America and Africa that even have a pastor and order of service. But what they all have in common is their search for a real experience of God's love in everyday life as we make our way on our spiritual journey. Quakers are seekers - they constantly ask questions and try to get hold of the basic truths in our lives: they were originally known as The Friends of Truth. They feel that asking questions and keeping an open mind are better options than sticking to dogmatic answers and opinions.
Much of what I have written may have struck a chord with Jain readers. I often notice the similarities and common threads between the two religions. I know that the Jains would feel very comfortable in a Quaker meeting and they would certainly be very welcome.
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Sally Harding is a teacher and an artist. She lives in York, England. www.jainelibrary.org
