the goan I network
OLD GOA
Representatives of three main religions “ Christianity, Hinduism and Islam “ provides insights on the theme ‘Embracing others, progressing together’, at an inter-religious meet organised by the committee for the Apostolate of Inter-religious Dialogue at the Bom Jesus Basilica in Old Goa on Thursday.
Rupesh Shinkre said that Hinduism was earlier known as ‘Sanatan Dharm’ which means eternal laws of nature. “It is beyond religion, a way of life. It is a code of ethics, way of living through which one may achieve ‘moksha’ i.e. liberation and enlightenment,” Shinkre explained.
Further, Shinkre said Sanatan Dharm is God-centric and is experience based rather than belief based. “It is universal flow of dharm, which means we have to do our duties to the best of our abilities,” he stated, while adding that it is not better than or alternate to, but inclusive of all.
“It cannot define or segregate in any means ever,” he added.
Speaking on Islam, Usman Khan said the religion teaches to know each other, stand on the same footing and love each other.
“Thus progressing together becomes an easy task,” Khan opined.
Quoting Prophet Mohammad, Khan said, “You should be merciful to the people on earth and Allah will be merciful to you.”
Khan said Islam teaches the basic concept that we are all children of Adam and Eve and hence we are a family where nobody hates each other but moves ahead hand in hand.
“While we talk about embracing others progressing together, we have to ensure each one has what is necessary for his livelihood,” he stated.
“Mere worshiping is not righteousness, but that has to be complemented by doing what we can to uplift the downtrodden,” Khan opined, adding that all are equal in the eyes of God.
Speaking on Christianity, Dr Rita Paes said that Jesus showed the way to accept people of all faith. “Jesus was radically inclusive. He broke the barrier between Jews and non-Jews. Embraced all people “ poor, oppressed, sick, lepers, tax collectors,” Paes stated and added that Jesus made it clear that Kingdom of God is of love, peace, justice and harmony, which is possible on earth when we love one another.
“Jesus broke down all the laws that created division between people,” she went on to add.
Earlier, Fr Agnelo Pinheiro welcomed the gathering, while novices of Franciscan Missionaries of Christ the King presented a prayer dance.
Seminarians of Rachol Seminary presented a skit on unity in diversity. A mime was presented by sisters of Mater Dei Institute on good prevailing over evil while a skit presented by Holy Cross Church, Verna, highlighted the need to live a humane life. Fr Joseph Rodrigues later proposed the vote of thanks.
