Peace and Peacemaking

Section: Concepts of Peace in Hinduism

In Hinduism, peace, known as Shanti, is a highly valued spiritual state.
Hindu scriptures like Bhagavad Gita and Upanishads contain teachings about achieving individual peace of mind and universal peace.
Inner peace helps maintain Dharma or moral order and respect Rta or natural order.
The most common prayer for peace, the Shanti Mantra, asks for peace in everything in the universe.

Section: Religious Practices Promoting Peace

Hindus promote peace through activities such as meditation and yoga which help to calm the mind and cultivates inner peace.
Religious festivals, like Diwali, promote peace and harmony by bringing families together.
Temples often serve as community centres where people come together to pray and promote peace.

Section: Peace and the Individual

Every Hindu is expected to strive for personal peace through a life of virtue and righteousness, or Dharma.
Hindus are taught the concept of Ahimsa, meaning non-violence to any living creature.
They believe in Karma, where actions have consequences either in this life or in future lives and this encourages peaceful behaviour.

Section: Peace and Society

Hinduism strongly advocates for a peaceful society where Dharma is followed.
Caste system, though controversial, is traditionally seen as promoting societal peace through role definition.
Sacred scriptures advise rulers and governments to pursue peace, justice and welfare of all.
Ashramas, or the four stages of life, guide an individual in maintaining peace at every stage.

Section: Peacemaking in Hinduism

Peacemaking in Hinduism is encouraged through the practice of Dharma and Ahimsa.
They believe in resolving disputes peacefully, often involving elders of the community or religious leaders.
Hindu leaders and organisations frequently participate in interfaith dialogues and actions promoting world peace.

Section: Views on War and Violence

Peaceful resolution of conflicts is always preferred, but Hindu scriptures like Mahabharata acknowledge sometimes war is necessary to uphold Dharma.
In such situations, rules of war (Dharma Yuddha) guide to reduce suffering and protect non-combatants.
However, violence is seen as disruptive to the societal and cosmic order and is generally condemned.

Section: Hinduism and Non-violent Resistance

The concept of Satyagraha (passive resistance) propagated by Mahatma Gandhi, draws from Hindu teachings.
Its practices – such as protests, strikes and non-cooperation – have been used effectively in peacemaking and campaigning for independence and civil rights.