World Religions Conference November 1957

Author(s): Sushil Muni
Publisher: Achal Singh Seth

Page 49

Objects of the Conference and wars. There are several misconceptions rampant about religion. Our great problem is how to acquire the normal virtues-Peace, Happiness and Harmony.
All sects and creeds bear an enduring stamp of World ReligionUniversal form of Religion on the nobler plan of welfare of the human race. All human beings have come to the point at which the choice lies open as to whether man is to develop himself by the Spirit or whether man is to devote himself to the gaining of purely material advantages. The evolutionary demand upon man for more civilised conduct has become imperative. All religions ought to be knit, entwined and inter-twined together to produce a soothing balm, an elixir, a panacea for all social, physical, economic and allied evils. Acceptance of Universal Religion does not likewise imply changes of faith or religion by the followers. The demarcated lines which served as barricades between religion and religion, superstitions and various fisms' have been devitalising humanity. We have to concentrate our attention on the internal unity of religions Instead of their external differences. This unity does not imply the disappearance of identity of the different religions, nor does it contemplate proselytisation. We seek earnest and sincere co-operation from their followers. We invite them to come closer together, to make acquaintance and to evolve a common plan for world betterment by a free exchange of ideas and things in the mind and in the spirit.
Political treaties and agreements have been known to be ineffective in restoring peace in the world. For this reason, citizens all over the world are confronted by imminent crisis, their spirits are dismal and dreary. The world has turned into a world of ceaseless conflicts, and there is no hope to have the spirits stabilised. On account of spiritual poverty and individualism, uneasy feelings are increasing, driving people away from
oneness.
In the absence of true knowledge, ignorance, dogmatism and fanaticism are promoted. We intended to hold a World Religions Conference to remove ignorance. The great religious movements lost themselves in exoteric laws and restrictions aimed at Increasing their power and worldly influence thus paving the way for the spread of ignorance, selfishness dividing mankind in selfish nations, races and religious bodies. Happily, esoteric teachings have already brought some light and in every country there are people gifted with true insight and an open mind. Teachers of religion have a great responsibility in these critical times. They would be blessed if they could find the way to bring together divided humanity in one common fold. They should put emphasis on the basic doctrines of all Religions, for that is also the basis of their own religion, all too aften forgotten through the secondary laws which maintain
.