The Essential Tolerance and Values of Hinduism: Insights from Erik Solheim
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Synopsis
Former Norwegian minister Erik Solheim recently praised Hinduism for its modern values and profound tolerance, emphasizing its necessity in today's world. His insights follow a spiritual experience at Triveni Sangam, highlighting the religion's respect for nature and the challenge of maintaining cultural identity in an increasingly Westernized world.
Key Takeaways
- Hindu Dharma exemplifies modern values and virtues.
- It promotes profound tolerance among its followers.
- Respect for Nature is a core principle of Hinduism.
- The religion encourages diverse forms of worship.
- Modernization shouldn't lead to the loss of cultural values.
New Delhi, Feb 12 (NationPress) Hindu Dharma is remarkably contemporary and embodies numerous virtues that today’s global society should recognize and potentially emulate, stated former Norwegian minister Erik Solheim on Wednesday.
This commendation for Hinduism and Santan Dharma from Norway’s ex-minister of Climate and Environment follows his recent spiritual experience of taking a holy dip at the revered Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj.
In a unique conversation with IANS, the seasoned Norwegian diplomat and politician compared Hinduism with various other faiths, including Christianity, and highlighted how the principles embedded in the former are urgently needed in the current global landscape.
“Hindu dharma appears very, very modern because it addresses two of the most critical issues of our time – its profound tolerance and the awareness of our responsibilities towards Nature,” remarked Solheim.
He elaborated on his perspective by indicating that followers of Christianity might resort to violence against those who deviate from established doctrines, a sentiment not echoed in Hinduism.
“Hinduism is significantly more tolerant. You can worship the Gods in your own way. You can pray to Lord Shiva, Vishnu, Ganesh, or Lord Ram. It is a very tolerant faith. That is precisely what the world requires today,” asserted the experienced ex-diplomat, who has also played a pivotal role as a peace negotiator.
The second reason he provided for his admiration for Hinduism was its deep-rooted respect and concern for Nature and Mother Earth.
“Ancient Indians possessed a greater consciousness of Nature. In Western thought, God and humanity have been placed above nature, leading to a mindset where humans could kill animals, devastate forests, and act entirely for their satisfaction, believing they were superior beings. However, this is not the case with Hinduism. Here, humans are integral to nature, having centered their livelihoods around the natural environment,” he explained.
He also addressed the challenge faced by nearly every nation in maintaining their values while navigating the path of modernization without succumbing to Westernization.
“It might have seemed somewhat outdated, perhaps around 200 years ago, but now it appears so modern and aligns well with the demands of our contemporary era,” Solheim remarked, sharing his intriguing insights into a religion with a rich history of over 4,000 years.
