YJA Convention 2002 07 NJ Fifth

Author(s): Young Jains of America (YJA)
Publisher: Young Jains of America YJA USA

Page 35

Comparative World Religions
Cromwell Crawford
D eligious diversity exists in the modern world especially particularity of religions, and provides us with
There in the United States. Today you come across conceptual tools to accept religious diversity without either classmates or colleagues that generally don't have having to forfeit or sacrifice the uniqueness of one's the same background as you and this also includes one's own tradition. religious upbringing. Religion plays a major role in shaping one's views and ultimately decisions and actions. Religion As we have entered the 21st century many conflicts becomes part of one's philosophy thus the melting pot we have just arisen in the past two years. Religion live in combines all philosophies. I use the analogy of the has been a central focal point for these conflicts, melting pot to also illustrate many different scenarios that from civil wars that occur in Ireland between we as humans come across. We assume that people we Catholics and Protestants to the most recent turmoil encounter have morals and values that have been rooted in India due to the Hindu-Muslim conflict. Some from their religion and/or culture. But what happens when points to ponder: your morals and values conflict with that of your neighbor? Can you live in harmony? When does ignorance end and Are these conflicts based on religious text or tolerance begin? This session will help you introspect how interpretation of text by people today? Jainism plays a role in today's society with inclusion of Would outcomes of these conflicts differ if people tolerance and acceptance.
followed their religion based on tolerant teachings
of religious leaders versus extremism that projected For better or worse, religions represent a potent force on today? the world stage, whose claims and counter claims must As a human when do we take responsibility of be addressed if we are to have peace in our generation. negative actions instead of citing religion as the Jainism has an important role to play in this global crisis. drive? First it illuminates our understanding of the common roots of religion in the human condition, and also sheds light on You will walk away with a better understanding of how these universal roots come to flower and flourish in a how religions can resolve intolerance without garden of distinctive forms, each with its own specific ignorance. beauty. Thus Jainism recognizes both the universality and
notes:
34
Jan Education frernational 2010-05