RELIGIOUS HARMONY IS RELIGIOUS PLURALISM THE WAY? 0 0

Abstract

The contemporary world exhibits a diversity of religions with every religion having its devoted adherents. For a harmonious life, it is crucial to have a favourable attitude towards other world religions and faiths. A constructive role from people is required to address the issues related to religion. Such issues have acquired significance, attention, and intensity in contemporary times because of globalization and technological advancements. Any action would now lead to worldwide reaction and thus our responsibility to act wisely increases manifold. The question is what should be our response to this multiplicity of religions? We need to respond to this diversity in a positive way so that it turns out to be an asset and not a threat. If we understand and accept diversity our attitude towards it would be more accommodating than conflicting. This paper discusses the response of Exclusivism, Inclusivism and Religious Pluralism to the multiplicity of religions prevalent by stating their main tenets using narrative review methodology. A pluralistic view of religious diversity asserts that all religions are equally good. Religions should be allowed to coexist and be respected. Exclusivism, on the other hand, affirms that a particular religion is the most valuable and the only way to attain liberation. Inclusive theories try to achieve a middle ground between exclusivism and pluralism by acknowledging that other religions have significant religious values while also agreeing with exclusivism that there is one religion closer to the truth than the others. The paper further discusses the Sikh view on the multiplicity of religions highlighting Guru Nanak Dev’s philosophy which stresses the equality of all religions. The philosophical problems concerning religious pluralism are laid down. An argument is provided to show how pluralism promotes religious harmony. Despite conceptual difficulties, the implication of religious pluralism in society is seen as progressive and leading to much-desired religious harmony.