New York, August 30: Prominent religious leaders have issued a warning about the rapid spread of hatred across borders, as humanity grapples with armed conflicts, displacement, prejudice, and the adverse effects of emerging technologies. Speaking at the ‘Universal Oneness‘ event at Madison Square Garden, Jewish, Christian, and Muslim speakers called for a renewed recognition of shared identity, compassion, and humanity.
The ‘Universal Oneness’ program featured Mohan Bhagwat, the head of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), along with religious representatives from various countries.
Baba Jain, the founding Secretary-General of the World Council of Religious Leaders, presented a ‘Call to Action’ developed after discussions with over 200 representatives from major religions across 30 countries.
Jain stated, “We know that faith has the incredible power to heal, reconcile, and inspire. It is also a sad truth that religion has sometimes been used to divide, isolate, and justify violence.” He urged religious leaders to first examine the words, teachings, institutions, and customs within their communities.
He emphasized, “We will reject the use of religion to justify hatred, disrespect, inhumane behavior, or violence, and teach that deep faith and respect for differing beliefs can coexist.” Jain also called on religious communities to build relationships before crises arise and to unite youth beyond religious and cultural boundaries. He noted, “It is hard to hate someone you know.”
Imam Sharif remarked that the success of this program would be measured by the actions of participants after leaving the venue. He added, “The question is, what will be different tomorrow because we are here today?” He continued, “If we leave with deep relationships, new courage, shared responsibility, and a resolve to work together, then perhaps we will have helped initiate something significant.”
Sharif cautioned against equating unity with uniformity. He stated, “We do not need to be the same to stay connected. Unity does not require sameness. Deep faith does not necessitate hatred or contempt for others.” He warned that technological advancements have not eradicated humanity’s oldest tendencies.
Sharif said, “Hatred is spreading faster than ever across borders and through our screens. Technology is advancing rapidly, while humanity struggles with hatred, prejudice, arrogance, division, inhumane behavior, and struggles for dominance.”
Reverend Thorn noted that people are repeatedly told whom to fear, blame, or isolate. He said this gathering conveyed a different message. “Whenever humanity chooses to come together instead of retreating, to listen instead of shouting, and to understand instead of doing evil, something sacred happens.” Thorn added, “Before our roles, religions, politics, and borders, we are human beings, children of God.”
Rabbi Blumenthal remarked that according to Jewish teachings, every person contains a divine spark and is invaluable. He stated, “We are all equal, important, and deserving of love because when God looks at us, it is as if they see themselves in a mirror.” He explained that religion is not just about believing in God but also understanding that God trusts humanity. Blumenthal expressed that a significant cause of today’s societal issues is loneliness and urged people to build relationships of “connection, love, and respect.”
During the event, the ritual of Raksha Bandhan was highlighted as a symbol of care, security, and mutual responsibility. Attendees were encouraged to extend this relationship beyond family to neighbors, strangers, and different religious communities.
It is noteworthy that Bhagwat has been leading the RSS since 2009. Established in 1925, the RSS is celebrating its 100th anniversary and is using this occasion to promote its message of social organization and service.
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