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Is Violence Inbuilt in World Religious Teachings?
By Dr Aslam Abdullah
CA

Religions emphasize peace, compassion, and nonviolence but also recognize situations to justify violence for self-defense, justice, or the protection of others. They provide guidance on when, if ever, it is acceptable to resort to violence. Scriptures tell us that the decision to resort to violence came from the Supreme entity through His chosen ones. Nowadays, the clergy or the keepers of faith decide when and whom to fight in the name of God.


Confucianism

Confucianism does not glorify violence but focuses on maintaining social harmony and moral conduct. Violence is only acceptable when it is necessary to preserve order.

  • Moral Leadership : Confucius emphasized that rulers should lead with virtue rather than force. Violence is necessary to restore moral order.
    • Key Teaching : "The superior man understands righteousness; the inferior man understands profit." (Confucius, Analects)


Taoism

Taoism emphasizes living in harmony with the Tao (the natural way of the universe) and advocates for non-action (wu wei) and peace. Violence disrupts the natural flow of life.

  • Wu Wei : Taoism teaches one to act naturally, avoiding forceful or violent actions unless necessary.
  • Defense Only :


Hinduism

Hinduism generally advocates for Ahimsa (nonviolence) as a cardinal virtue, but it also recognizes violence in specific contexts, particularly in defense of righteousness (dharma).

  • Ahimsa : The principle of nonviolence is deeply rooted in Hindu philosophy and practices, particularly about all living beings.
    • Key Teaching : (Nonviolence is the highest duty).
  • Bhagavad Gita on Duty and Violence : The Bhagavad Gita provides an essential discourse on violence. Krishna advises Arjuna to perform his duty as a warrior, emphasizing that righteous war (in defense of dharma) is justified.
    • Key Verse : "Even if you die in battle, you will go to heaven; if you win, you will enjoy the earth. Therefore, arise, O son of Kunti, and fight." (Gita 2:37)


Buddhism

Buddhism regards violence as the result of ignorance and attachment.

  • Ahimsa : Similar to Hinduism, Buddhism greatly emphasizes Ahimsa (non-harm) and encourages avoiding violence toward all sentient beings.
    • Key Teaching : "All beings tremble before violence. All fear death. All love life. See yourself in others. Then whom can you hurt? What harm can you do?" (Dhammapada 10.1)
  • Exceptions : While violence is strongly discouraged, some Buddhist texts reference kings and rulers engaging in war to protect their subjects. However, the use of force should always be a last resort.
  • Monastic Precepts : Buddhist monks and nuns take vows prohibiting killing, even in self-defense.


Judaism

Judaism generally seeks peace but recognizes circumstances where violence is justified, especially in self-defense or to uphold justice.

  • Torah Teachings : The Hebrew Bible (Tanakh) contains numerous accounts of warfare, especially when the Israelites defended or established their land. However, it emphasizes proportionality and ethics in warfare.
    • Key Teaching : "If someone comes to kill you, rise and kill him first." (Talmud, Sanhedrin 72a)
  • Ethical Warfare : The Torah outlines rules of ethical warfare, such as sparing civilians and offering peace before engaging in conflict.
  • Pursuit of Peace : Judaism teaches the importance of peace and reconciliation, as seen in the greeting Shalom, which means peace.

 

Christianity

Christianity, mainly through Jesus's teachings, emphasizes love, forgiveness, and turning the other cheek. However, interpretations vary across denominations regarding when violence is justified.

  • New Testament Teachings : Jesus promotes nonviolence and forgiveness.
    • Key Verse : "But I say to you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also." (Matthew 5:39)
  • Just War Theory : Developed later by theologians like Augustine and Aquinas, the Just War Theory outlines when violence can be morally justified. Fundamental principles include legitimate authority, cause, and proportionality.
  • Pacifism : Some Christian denominations, like Quakers and Mennonites, advocate for total pacifism, believing that any form of violence is inconsistent with Jesus' teachings.


Islam

In Islam, peace and nonviolence are essential, but certain circumstances justify violence, especially in self-defense or the defense of the oppressed.

  • Qur’anic Teachings : The Qur’an generally advocates for peace but permits fighting in self-defense or to protect the faith. It also encourages restraint in warfare, prohibiting harm to civilians and property.
    • Key Verse : "Fight in the cause of Allah those who fight you, but do not transgress limits; for Allah does not love transgressors." (Qur’an 2:190)
  • Jihad refers primarily to the spiritual struggle against sin. However, in some cases, it can refer to armed struggle for defense, not for aggression or conquest.
  • Prophet's Teachings : The Prophet Muhammad promoted peaceful resolutions and minimum violence in situations of necessity, such as defense against persecution.

 

Sikhism

Sikhism emphasizes peace and justice, but it recognizes that violence may be necessary to protect the innocent and uphold righteousness.

  • Guru Nanak's Teachings : Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, advocated for peace and nonviolence. However, later, Sikh Gurus introduced the concept of the Saint Soldier—one who is spiritually inclined but ready to defend justice with arms if necessary.
  • Kirpan : Sikhs carry a ceremonial sword called a kirpan, symbolizing the duty to protect others and stand against injustice.
    • Key Teaching : "When all other means have failed, it is righteous to draw the sword." (Guru Gobind Singh, Zafarnama)
  • Violence is only justified in self-defense, and even then, it must be used sparingly and with reluctance.