There is a surprising similarity even amidst the differences.

In the history of human civilization, religion has been a force that has driven people to search for morality, meaning of life, relationships, self-purification and an ultimate truth. Various religions have emerged in different nations and territories, in different historical contexts. But if we look deeply, we see that there is a surprising similarity amidst the various differences — all religions in one way or another call people to morality, good deeds, kindness, self-control and a search for a supreme power. These similarities tell us that the fundamental purpose of religion is to guide people on the path of human welfare, self-purification and ultimate truth.

First, the issue of self-control and control has gained importance in almost all religions. In Hinduism, it is said to suppress the desires and desires of life through the principles of ‘ahimsa, satya, brahmacharya’ etc. In Buddhism, it is called to free oneself from delusion, thirst and sorrow and walk on the path of nirvana. In Christianity, living a sinless life, charity, fasting, forgiveness and modesty are considered part of religious practice. In Judaism, self-control and fear of God are also taught through the ‘Ten Commandments’ given by Moses (peace be upon him).

This philosophy of self-control has gained special importance in Islam. In Islam, ‘taqwa’ or fear of God and self-control are placed at the center of religious life. The Quran repeatedly states, “Embrace piety — for piety is the root of a good life.” Fasting during the month of Ramadan has been made obligatory, the purpose of which is to attain fear of God and self-control: “O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may attain piety.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:183). That is, Islam informs that the concept of fasting was also present in previous religions — the purpose of which was self-control.

Secondly, the teaching of kindness is present in all religions. In Hinduism, love for living beings is spoken of through compassion and non-violence. In Buddhism, compassion (Karuna) and friendship (Metta) are one of the parts of the sadhana. In Christianity, Jesus (PBUH) repeatedly instructed to love one’s enemies, help the poor and forgive. In Judaism, humanity, help and alleviating the suffering of others are also considered to be the will of God.

Islam gives a very broad and wise view of this kindness. The first verse of the Quran names Allah “Ar-Rahman” (The Most Gracious) and “Ar-Raheem” (The Ever Merciful). This is said at the beginning of every Surah, which indicates that the main attribute of Allah in Islam is kindness. Allah said to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), “I have sent you as a mercy to the worlds.” (Surah Al-Anbiya, 21:107). He declared, “He who does not show mercy, will not be shown mercy.” Islam enjoins mercy not only towards humans but also towards animals. Even harming animals is forbidden, and killing even an ant will result in an accounting.

Thirdly, although the concept of a Creator takes various forms, most religions essentially have the concept of an ultimate and omnipotent being. Although Hinduism worships many gods and goddesses, the Upanishads state — “Ekang sadwipra bahudha badanti” meaning, Truth is one, the wise call Him by various names. Although Buddhism does not formally speak of a Creator, there is a tendency in religious meditation and imagination towards a kind of all-pervading truth or ultimate reality. In Christianity and Judaism, monotheism is very clear — God is one, He is the Creator of all things.

Islam presents this concept in a more sophisticated and definitive way. The foundation of Islam is monotheism — Allah is the only deity, He is unique, invisible, unbegotten and without equal. Surah Ikhlas states, “Say, He is Allah, the One. Allah is self-sufficient. He begets not, nor is He begotten. And He has no partner.” This concept of monotheism is so important that Islam says that denying monotheism makes a person a polytheist — which is the greatest sin. Here, Islam brings mankind to the thought of a pure and uncreated Creator, who is incomparable in kindness, knowledge, power and justice.

Fourth, the concept of sin and virtue is present in all religions. A system of consequences based on human good and bad deeds is established in every religion. The concept of ‘karma’ in Hinduism, ‘karmic retribution’ in Buddhism, ‘judgment at death’ in Christianity, ‘God’s punishment or reward’ in Judaism — all say that what a person does determines his future.

In Islam, this concept of sin and virtue is very balanced and logical. The Quran states, “Whoever does a good deed will receive ten times its like; and whoever does an evil deed will only be punished like it.” (Surah Al-An’am, 6:160). In Islam, Allah is merciful, so even if a person commits a sin, if he repents sincerely, Allah forgives him. In Islam, angels are assigned to every deed, who keep records of deeds. On the Day of Judgment, people will be judged according to their deeds. But the aspect of Allah’s mercy is so strong that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “No one will enter Paradise except by the mercy of Allah, not even I, unless Allah has mercy on me.”

From this discussion, it can be understood that there are some fundamental similarities within all religions — which call people to the path of truth, justice, kindness and self-restraint. Although there are differences in external behavior, practices and beliefs, a common message can be observed in the core philosophy — the return of man to an ultimate truth. Islam acknowledges these similarities, but at the same time unites everything on the basis of a complete and pure creed, and emerges as a final and eternal religion through the last Prophet.