By : U.Yonzon
India is one of the few shining examples of religious tolerance. Everyone is free to practice the religion of his choice. Despite diverse cultures, ways of living, beliefs and religious faiths, there is unity and harmony.
The secret lies in the solid foundation of spirituality enshrined in the sacred scriptures and holy books, which have been truly preaches and practiced by the great devotees, saints and seers from time immemorial. Because of this, spirituality is firmly rooted in this country and has always played a vital role in upholding a firm belief in peaceful co-existence. The concept of peaceful co-existence advocated from ancient times had been reaffirmed and adopted even by the great statesmen and politicians at home and abroad. It shows India's deep conviction in peace and harmony.
Great destructive weapons are not the answer to unrest and turmoil, but a serene head and tranquil mind that can foster harmony amongst the human beings. The invention of destructive weapons only creates a fear complex and mistrust amongst the nations and damages the morale of the human beings. It may bring about forced and temporary peace among nations, but as soon as the adversary invents a more powerful explosive device, the peace and harmony is shattered and in this process no permanent harmony can be fostered.
No doubt, science had invented wonderful devices and still more are to come, yet it has not led to permanent peace and harmony that the people yearn for more than anything else to-day. The scientists in the absence of spiritual knowledge believe that man is all-powerful and supreme and can shape his won destiny. Some days back, I was watching the UGC (University Grants Commission) programme on the television wherein one scientist was saying, he did not believe in the so-called god-men or soul. What a pity! I thought for a couple of days and came to the conclusion that the people are deviating from the eternal path which has been shown in the holy book all through the ages. Every holy book has time and again affirmed that God has created man. The Supreme Lord has bestowed upon man the intellect, and with this rare faculty the scientists have made their inventions. Therefore, it is clear that science is actually the product of the intellect bestowed by God. Science has provided the means of comforts and conveniences that man wanted. Why is man not happy and why is he still in search of peace of mind, is the most important question that confronts the modern man. Thus, the comforts and conveniences he has attained through scientific knowledge have not led to peace of mind and contentment. There is link missing somewhere and that missing link is spirituality. Without spirituality man can never be really happy, no matter how great his achievements; he remains devoid of true happiness and harmony. And without harmony amongst the individuals, there can be no real and perennial peace in the society. It is, therefore, imperative that the scientific knowledge be blended with the spiritual knowledge, so that while enjoying the comforts and conveniences of life, man imbibes pristine virtues such as tolerance and co-existence to promote harmony the entire world over.