RELIGIOUS TOLERANCE FOR PEACEFUL CO-EXISTENCE

Religion is a set of organized beliefs, practices, and systems that most often relate to the belief and worship of a controlling force, such as a personal god or another supernatural being. It is a personal set or institutionalized system of religious attitudes, beliefs, and practices.

There are various kinds of Religions across the globe of which some are Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Judaism, Buddhism, Mormonism, Catholicism, Traditional religion in Respect to Nigeria, Secularism/Atheism, etc.

These few mentioned Religions above have the power to shape the mindset of individuals across the world and can help to either make the world a better place or destroy all that is left of it.

Tolerance is accommodating to the differences of others and empathetic to the individual’s beliefs, culture, and unique habits. It is the act of sympathy or indulgence for beliefs or practices differing from or conflicting with one’s own.

Tolerating your fellow human helps to understand them as individuals, their ideologies and perspectives.  It also builds you as an individual in terms of knowledge development about things that are not in your way of life but can help you grow.

Religious Tolerance refers to the ability to appreciate spiritual values, beliefs and practices which are different from your own. This goal is a complex one due to the great diversity of religions and spiritual beliefs existing in the world today.

Religious Tolerance is the ability to be able to see the world through the lens of other Religions without having to oppose or hate the view but appreciating and learning from it whilst still staying true to your own beliefs and Faith.

Religious Tolerance is very important because Religion is one of the pillars of the world that has the power to break or bind the people. Tolerating the Religion of another Man will not only help bring Peace to the society but will also encourage Mutual relationships amongst all.

When you step out of your comfort zone and take the time to study someone else’s beliefs, you’re not just being tolerant but also broadening your horizons. There’s so much to learn from each faith, be it wisdom about life, morality, or the universe. Plus, by understanding the beliefs of others, you can develop deeper relationships with people from different backgrounds. 

Also, you’ve probably heard of the “golden rule”: Treat others how you want to be treated. It’s a principle that’s found in many teachings. By practicing this tolerance, you acknowledge that just as you wouldn’t want your faith to be mocked or misunderstood, you shouldn’t do the same to others. 

Finally, just as Dennis Quaid has said:

Certainly, I’m a Christian first and foremost. But I do believe in religious tolerance and finding the commonality between all of us. I think that’s how we’re all going to come together.

Curated by Daramola .E. Oyindamola to commemorate WORLD DAY OF RELIGIOUS TOLERANCE