Basically all major religions of the world carry the same message; therefore harmony between different religions is both important and necessary….
The Dalai Lama
Common Purpose
Topic: Interfaith Pathways
“Basically all major religions of the world carry the same message; therefore harmony between different religions is both important and necessary. Each system has its own value suited to persons of different disposition and mental outlook. At this time of easy communications, we must increase our efforts to learn each other’s system. This does not mean that we should make all religions into one but that we should recognize the common purpose of the many religions and value the different techniques that they have developed for internal improvement.”
Tenzin Gyatso, born on July 6, 1935, is known globally as the 14th Dalai Lama, the spiritual and former political leader of the Tibetan people. Born as Lhamo Thondup in a farming family in Taktser, Amdo, Tibet, he was recognized as the reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama, Thubten Gyatso, when he was just two years old. As the Dalai Lama, he holds the highest spiritual position within Tibetan Buddhism and is seen as a figure of great moral authority and influence. Following China's invasion of Tibet in 1950, he assumed full political power in 1950 but was forced into exile in India in 1959 after the failed Tibetan uprising against Chinese rule.
The Dalai Lama is renowned for his messages of peace, non-violence, inter-religious understanding, and compassion. He has authored numerous books and has lectured worldwide, becoming one of the most influential figures in the world of spirituality and philosophy. In recognition of his work for peace and non-violence, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989. Furthermore, his advocacy for the cultural and religious rights of the Tibetan people and his efforts to find a peaceful solution to the situation in Tibet through dialogue and understanding, rather than violence, have made him an internationally respected leader. Despite the political controversies and challenges, he remains committed to promoting human values and harmony among the world's religious traditions.
Wilson, Andrew, editor. World Scripture II. Universal Peace Federation, 2011, p. 395 [Tenzin Gyatso, The Fourteenth Dalai Lama].
The Dalai Lama
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Additional Quotes by Tenzin Gyatso, The 14th Dalai Lama
All major religious traditions carry basically the same message, that is love, compassion and forgiveness … the important thing is they should be part of our daily lives.
–Tenzin Gyatso, The 14th Dalai Lama [As quoted in Especially for Christians: Powerful Thought-provoking Words from the Past (2005) by Mark Alton Rose] p. 19.
As a result of more contact with people from other traditions, as time passes I have firmed my conviction that all religions can work together despite fundamental differences in philosophy. Every religion aims at serving humanity. Therefore, it is possible for the various religions to work together to serve humanity and contribute to world peace. So, during these last few years, at every opportunity I try to develop closer relations with other religions.
–Tenzin Gyatso, The 14th Dalai Lama [“The Nobel Evening Address”] p. 115.