Living for the sake of others is the universal principle that defines the way we should live our lives–the one law of the true way of life.
Sun Myung Moon
The Universal Principle
Topic: Virtue, Morality, & Ethics
“What is the path for us to live a true life? As we go on the path, the main thing we should keep in mind is to live for the sake of others. Confucius, Jesus, Muhammad, and Buddha all affirm this truth. Living for the sake of others is the universal principle that defines the way we should live our lives – the one law of the true way of life.“
Sun Myung Moon, born on January 6, 1920, was a spiritual leader and luminary hailing from North Korea. He founded the Holy Spirit Association for the Unification of World Christianity, better known as the Unification Church, in 1954. Drawing upon direct Prophetic revelation, influenced by the major faith traditions—especially Christianity, but also Judaism, Islam, Confucianism, and Buddhism. He also developed a political philosophy to resist the spread of the anti-religious Communist ideology. Reverend Moon's teachings centered on love, unity, and peace. He aimed to spark a global spiritual movement that transcended religious and cultural divisions, and his vision resonated with followers all over the world. Through the Unification Church, Sun Myung Moon also promoted interfaith understanding and collaboration, striving for harmony among diverse religious traditions.
Reverend Moon's teachings went beyond the realm of the spiritual to touch on the universal human themes of love and family. He emphasized the importance of nurturing strong, loving families as the cornerstone for a harmonious and peaceful world. To this end, he conducted mass wedding ceremonies known as the 'Blessing', symbolizing the unity of all people under God, regardless of their cultural or religious backgrounds. Moon also stressed the value of community service and encouraged his followers to actively contribute to their local communities.
Sun Myung Moon's partner in both life and work was his wife, Hak Ja Han Moon. As co-leader of the Unification Church, she is a pivotal figure in spreading their shared vision of a world unified by love and peace. Affectionately known as 'True Mother', she embodies the ideal of nurturing and unconditional love in their teachings. After Reverend Moon's passing in 2012, Hak Ja Han Moon assumed sole leadership of the Unification Church and changed the name to Heavenly Parent's Holy Community. In her leadership role, she has tirelessly carried forward their mission, upholding the church's emphasis on peace, interfaith dialogue, and strong, loving families. Under her guidance, the church has continued to flourish, spreading its message of unity and love to people around the globe.
Wilson, Andrew, editor. World Scripture II. Universal Peace Federation, 2011, p. 68 [The Teachings of Sun Myung Moon (133:18, July 1, 1984)].
Sun Myung Moon
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Living for the Sake of Others
This ethic of living for the sake of others calls us to continual acts of service and sacrifice. It requires a selfless orientation of character, which ultimately stems from our vertical connection to God and His endless love.
–World Scripture II [Universal Peace Federation (2011)] p. 67.
Additional Sun Myung Moon Quotes
“Even looking at contemporary morals and social ethics, a certain principle applies. It is the standard that we live for the sake of others and not insist that others live for us.”
—Sun Myung Moon [71:125, April 29, 1974].