The basic need for water can make interfaith sharing happen.
Muslims and Hindus,
traditionally having strained relations in India,
are coming together to save the polluted Ganges River.
The Ganges is 1,569 miles long
and straddles the border of Bangladesh and India.
One of the top five polluted rivers on Earth,
the Ganges endangered the lives of humans, fish, and amphibians.
The Ganges is sacred to Hindus,
and it is used for religious rituals.
But as a national river,
both Muslims and Hindus depend on the river,
many earning livelihoods from work associated with the river.
Now, Muslim scholars support a campaign to save the river,
calling the drive to clean it as a "holy campaign."
Muslims and Hindus will sit together and make a joint work plan to clear the river,
including visiting the river banks to meet people
and raise public awareness.
This is the Right to Religious Coexistence in practice,
where interfaith contact makes sharing possible.
Maybe fixing the Earth environment is a place where
religions can find common ground to work together.
Maybe fixing the Earth environment is a place where
religions can find common ground to work together.
59 comments:
I think that it is time for us as a people to come together to get things done. We should not be fighting each other because we have different beliefs. We should be coming together and trying to fix the problems we have afar as our earth resources.
A252
Ironically, when people are in need and have to come together to accomplish the same important goal, they put their differences aside to accomplish the goal. It is great that they will make efforts to clean the water that provides both Muslims and Hindus. What would be even greater is to see them to continue to work together in the future, accept each other’s differences and live peacefully alongside each other. JA
I agree with JA, it is human nature to look for a helping hand when you’re drowning. Hopefully, the Muslims and the Hindus can finally realize that at the end of the day we all bleed red and aside of which god we pray to we all need to see each other as one human race not a divided species. If there are no rivers and land because they have been destroyed by them then there will be no where for them to fight and pray any more. It's good to see that they’re finally getting things together.
Arba
This article describes religion with reality.We may have differences in our beliefs, but everybody understands that without our basic resources no religion will save us from extinction.
LC
I find this to be an important lesson to all that despite religion, race or culture people are able to put their differences aside to support a common cause. This is a perfect example on how humans can harmoniously co-exist if both parties are willing to work together. ANC
It is amazing to see two groups of people come together and put their differences aside for a common goal. Unfortunately it came down to this for it to happen. Humans need to put their trivial differences aside and realize that we all share one world; so why ruin it just because we have different beliefs. Hopefully the "peace" last. CMH
I agree with CMH, we need to put our differences aside. But this is an idea hummanity is slowly warming up to. With science and technological advances we have educated ourselves and realised our survival does not depend on religion but on understanding. Our salvation is not sitting on a throne up in the heavens, its sitting on our hands and its up to us to exercise that power. LMI
I think the Muslims and Hindus should take this as a learning experience. They could take on other challenges TOGETHER and create a better and more prosperous living environment to be proud of. There is no better outcome than when 2 opposing groups come together as one to solve the problems they share.
JB
Wonderful, Hindus and Muslims working side by side to save the river used in many religious practices. Unfortunately, it is partially religious practices that are to blame for the filth in the river. Maybe it is time for the Muslims and Hindus to question some of the practices, religious or not, held at the Ganges. Assuming the river is returned to an acceptable level of cleanliness. It will not stay that way if it is continually used as a toilet or laundry mat(the current situation). some other questionable common practices include: Sending the dead down the river, into the afterlife(they never actually make it there, instead decomposing along the shore or in shallow banks). Expelling waste from all major cities along the banks of the river, this includes fecal matter(which is over 100 times the safe government limit ), Etc.
I am for religious freedom, but do not under any circumstance condone pollution. I am afraid that both Hindu and Muslim practices are responsible for that, almost as much as the Indian government and other surrounding countries.
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MRM
I completely agree with MRM, everyone has the right to practice religion as well as have their own beliefs. Your personal beliefs be it religious or not in no way, shape or form make it acceptable to pollute our beloved earth. We need to set our religious differences aside and realize that we all need the resources in this planet in order to survive.
JA23
Fortunately, these two diverse groups were able to put their differences aside and work together to raise pollution awareness in the Ganges River. The fact that many Muslims and Hindus earn their livelihoods through work with the national river, gives sense to preserve and conserve for the greater good of those families. Let's just hope this new wave of productivity continues to progress. BB
"...let's realize that a change can only come when we stand together as one..." (Jackson & Richie).
Two religions with different aspects joined to encourage a new generation of life, together to replenish growth by purifying a stream. Applying righteousness, taking action for their ancestors responsibility. In this new century we live with a society that should know the world has transformed, and know that even when you believe in something you should consider the consequences. It's very honorable that our youth has considered taking action on preserving nature back to its peaceful grace; a new beginning to remove poison from the earths soul.
Jackson, Michael, and Lionel Richie. We Are the World. By Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie. Rec. 28 Jan. 1985. Motown Record Co., 1985. MP3.
SMilEy
I’m glad to see that the Muslims and the Hindus could put aside their differences and try to raise awareness for a great cause. Seeing people come together like this makes me have a little more hope in humanity. BG
I comprehend how their cleaning efforts seem commendable to most; however, the negligence of the Muslims and Hindus created this situation. It is going to take a tremendous amount of effort and funds to complete this mission. Frankly, I do not see that happening. EL
When I read about how Muslims and Hindus are able to work together, I enjoyed it. To save the river was stronger than religion or culture. In addition, the necessity to preserve the environment is the most beautiful goal of the human being. MCC
Its hard to say if were seeing the Right to Religious Coexistence at work or if it's the desire for self preservation taking place here.
MAR III
Not many notice but we help each other everyday, even if we don't share the same religion. When all of us come together, we make greatness happen. When putting aside our religious differences, it shows that we are alike despite our religions. Coexisting should not be a problem for anyone, like the Hindu and the Muslims, we should come together to fight for what we believe.
Forgot this up there ^ SVV
I love the idea of different people with different cultures and religion coming together to help a cause. This helps remind all of us that through all our differences, we are still the same in many ways. We are all just human beings who live on the same planet, called Earth.
JPK
Why do we tend to lead without compassion and turn a blind eye to the good in the world. Muslims and Sunnis have set aside their religious beliefs to champion a just cause. If two cultures can coexist to end the destruction of a river, we too should follow the example and come together to cleanse and heal our nation. mjd
Basic necessities can bring any group willing accept each other on this earth together. It is sad to know this is not the case in other parts of our world were radical religious beliefs defeat this understanding. LO
The purpose of religion is to establish unity and peace amongst men. For humans water is indispensable, is the way to purify the organism and even protect the soul in some religious cases. Defending this river from pollution intensify human morals and justice in every aspect of life.
It is an amazing point in time to witness two different religions unite to save something so sacred each in there own way. This should be an eye opener for everyone to see that there are endless possibilities when we are able set our difference aside and create a bond in order to see what is important and protect it, perfect example our future. AD
It is an amazing point in time to witness two different religions unite to save something so sacred each in there own way. This should be an eye opener for everyone to see that there are endless possibilities when we are able set our difference aside and create a bond in order to see what is important and protect it, perfect example our future. AD
I admire when people from two completely different cultures, backgrounds, or beliefs come together for one cause. Humanity needs to understand that to survive we must co-exist. The God a culture prays to or your traditions mean nothing to the way a problem will affect you, in this case the pollution of the Ganges river affect both countries dependency on the river for their livelihoods from work associated with the river. These two cultures worked together to achieve a goal by recognizing their needs understanding it, and working together to overcome it the problem by setting aside their strained relationships to raise awareness and making plans to clean the polluted waters of the Ganges river.
SVL
It is a natural and primal instinct as humans to be protective of our land and water, as they are both essential for our continued existence. However, I am astounded that it would take such a destructive occurrence for Hindus and Muslims to amalgamate as one to take action to cleanse The Ganges River. What other atrocious disasters need to exist for other religious coexistence to transpire?
Mercy
To bring about awareness is the best way both cultures can help save The Ganges River. Both cultures working together will help them strive to meet their goal and that is something to admire. -SA
I believe that the pollution of the Ganges River is a way of Mother Nature opening the eyes the Muslin and Hindu cultures. It is gratifying to see how two diverse religions set aside their religious beliefs to try to save and restore a very resourceful river. In which, they both depend on for their livelihood.
SAMROG
Why is it that we, as HUMANS only unite when things get really bad? We should work together regardless of religious beliefs, gender, or race to make life better! The situation with the Ganges River proves my point. They both need that river so they should have worked together to begin with. However, I guess not everything is that easy!
HL
This is a good example to see the true nature of humans: live with their peers in peace. We must ‘‘kill’’ our old man/woman and show a new one molded by love. Different beliefs do not mean constant war
HA
It really must be beautiful to let go and set differences aside, to see a common vision of a healtier and richer future. Old habbits are hard to break but I think human reason and love blossoms more through us over the course of time and history. MV
I agree with mercy. However, the Hindus and Muslims working together is a big stepping stone in humans coming together as just that, HUMANS. Putting our differences aside to help one another is the only way we can accomplish bigger and better things. MJR
We need to follow this great example, and learn from it. Even if we have different religious views, we should still get along for the greater good. Instead of fighting, we must make peace, and help each other to make the world a better place.
ECZ
Muslims and Hindus shouldn't just come together to save the Ganges River and once it's done go back to their own beliefs. Hopefully this will make them realize that no matter what religious beliefs they have, we are all human beings and we should have more respect for each other but most importantly for our nature. Because without it we wouldn't be able to survive. DDB
It's amazing how these two religions with different beliefs and aspects joined and worked together to save such an important river. I think that at the end of the day they both realized no matter what differences they have, if they come together as one all of their problems would solve and that's what the world should do too. That no matter what sex, religion, or color we are, we are all humans.
AS
The Muslims and Hindus are making a great example from all of us to learn from. They are putting their difference aside to clean up the Ganges River. Now that's team work at its best.
I agree with HL, the Muslisms and Hindus should have worked together from the beginning regardless of their religious beliefs, but it is also true that it is never too late to unite forces and save what is so sacred and important for both cultures. We should all humans leave aside our differences and live a better life. CPO.
I really like this one! I hunk it really demonstrates that even though people beliefs are different and think differently we can all still come all together as a force to fight for a common good! This is great and should happen more often especially out in our environment!
- DBP
I'm very glad to see that even with all the fighting going on today and all the hate spreading, times of need can still unite diverse peoples and stop the hatred between them. It gives me hope for humanity's progression in an age where it seems we're moving backwards.
-Apx
This should serve as an example to all of us, we should stop hating each other for religion, skin, or whatever else it is, and come together as human beings to protect what matters most to us as a civilization.
MTM
We are all different, with different religions, and different ways of thinking. This was a perfect example of how we must put our differences aside for the greater good. It is awesome that the Hindus and Muslims were able to work side by side in order to save the Ganges River. AVJ
These unfortunate events are what make us realize what we were born for. Humanity should serve its greatest purpose and harmonize in peace.
r646
I think it's great that these two groups of people are setting aside their differences in order to accomplish a common goal. However I believe that religious coexistence is one of those things that should be unconditional, everyone should respect one another's beliefs regardless of the fact that they might disagree with those beliefs. ID
These two groups of people the Muslims and the Hindus, did not put there differences aside. They're hiding there differences because of this particular situation they're experiencing this difficult circumstance forced this two religions to come together. But even when they look into each others eyes and join in partnership to accomplish the need of clean water, they still share dishonesty among themselves, because the only way we can get together in real unity is if we all praise and exult the only God that gives us salvation our Lord Jesus Christ its on him our salvation depends on not are understanding because is limited.AMV
For the greatest good of mankind it is hopeful to see such practice of different religious groups setting their believes aside to work together on a goal of this magnitude. It must have been extremely difficult to overcome their differences and accept that only united they stand a chance of survival. Which in the end tells us that nature comes first and we are the only ones responsible to preserve it regardless of race, gender and believes; and taking our actions into consideration. If a practice like this was applied to other scenarios there may be many conflicts that could be avoided and humans will be able to peacefully co-exist in many ways. Feels good to know humans acknowledge as civilized creatures and have an understanding that braking old habits may be necessary to make our world a better place. We should try to save a river if we can! COCO.
It is good to know that even if the Hindus and Muslims do not share the same believes, they are still willing to set aside their differences, for the sake of a noble cost in this case the Ganges River; I applaud their efforts because they are helping their community and the environment. However why does this kind of event must happen for them to behave this way.
YGR
This is exactly what the world needs more of...interfaith coexisting. If people would just come together and put differences aside, the changes that we could make are remarkable! Team work people ( Together Everyone Achieves More)!....NYH
It's a great thing that these two cultures are working together with one another for a common goal. But are they working together to clean the river, or are they working to clean the river, and just happen to be doing it together? I wonder how relations will last once the Ganges is clean again, I hope it stays positive.
NLG
Although admirable, we have to look through this common goal the Muslims and Hindus are reaching for. The Ganges river is a means to survival and that is the only reason these two religious entities are cooperating. If all goes well the river will be restored; expecting their partnership to stand thereafter is quite the stretch. -SV
Religious groups have been killing each other for land and resources all throughout history. When people come together despite their differences the world becomes a better place for everyone, but it will take many mistakes and obstacles. The Hindus and Muslims of the Ganges River set the example and now it is time to make our own. - BRD
This is just another indication that people can put aside their differences to work together if the wish. It is just sad that they wouldn’t do it unless they both had a mutual interest. Nevertheless, it is a good example to humanity that two cultures with religious beliefs as contrasting as Hindus and Muslims can co-exist and ignore their differences to get something accomplished.
GS
I think that is time to put our beliefs to the side in order to preserve our natural resources that benefits each other. Muslims and Hindus are given good examples of co-existence that others nations could be apply.
DAM
No matter what religion or belief anyone of us has, we as people should come together and do whatever we can to preserve our earth environment. We all need to remember that we the people, animals, and plants share the same earth. SM
I agree with the general comments of everyone. In order to survive, we all need to coexist regardless of our religious beliefs. SAM
Religion is a belief system that relates humanity, spiritual, and moral values. Despite what religion one believes, we can't forget the basis of it. Alhough all beliefs aren't the same, religion shouldn't be seen as a rivalry or war between people. I'm glad the Hindus and Muslims were able to put their differences aside and unite to achieve a common goal, which is to save the Ganges River from pollution. That way they are able to see that unity is a much stronger force than segregation.
MR
In my opinion, the blog clearly says that religion could be different for each person but at the same time it has the power to reunite people with the same belief to create or make something big and important. It all depends on the power of believe. - MAV
I think that it is such a beautiful thing that two absolutely different religions can come together as one and help each other in the time of need. It's sad that people only come together when bad things happen. This world we live in today is truely messed up because we all should help each other and love one another regardless of race or religion.
ADT
I believe that being part of a religion does not mean you have to remove yourself from society and only associate with what people call "their own kind". At the end of the day everyone has, over all, the same struggles. People need to pay bills, live health lives, and find happiness. It should not matter whether or not we are jewish, catholic, hindu, or muslim. How could something like the Ganges river, being such an important water source, not bring everyone together? AS
The Hindus and the Muslims are two groups of people who have had a history of not getting along. Now due to the fact that the Ganges river is having some problems they are putting aside their differences and coming together for the greater good. This is an amazing example that regardless of past differences people can coexist and come together to make a good change. -SG
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