Rev. Colleen Irwin

How the World’s Religions Teach Us to Treat Others

The Golden Rule is a simple yet powerful principle found in most major religions. It reminds us to treat others as we wish to be treated. This universal call for kindness, empathy, and respect transcends cultures and beliefs. Though phrased differently, the core idea remains: our actions reflect our moral and spiritual integrity. Let’s explore how major religions embrace this essential teaching.

Christianity: “Do Unto Others”

Text: Bible

Christianity teaches the Golden Rule as a fundamental moral guide. Jesus states, “Do to others as you would have them do to you” (Luke 6:31). This command encourages kindness, fairness, and love for all. It reminds believers that how they treat others mirrors how they wish to be treated, creating a cycle of goodwill.

Islam: “Wish for Others What You Wish for Yourself”

Text: Qur’an

Islam emphasizes empathy and fairness. The Prophet Muhammad teaches, “None of you truly believes until he wishes for his brother what he wishes for himself.” The Qur’an also urges believers to act justly and kindly. Islam extends the Golden Rule beyond personal relationships to promote fairness in society.

Judaism: “What is Hateful to You, Do Not Do to Your Neighbor”

Text: Torah

Judaism expresses the Golden Rule in the Talmud: “What is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbor.” This principle forms the foundation of Jewish ethics. It teaches that peace and righteousness begin with individual actions. The Torah and Jewish tradition emphasize responsibility toward others, especially within the community.

Hinduism: “This is the Sum of Duty”

Text: Bhagavad Gita, Vedas

Hinduism reflects the Golden Rule through ahimsa (non-violence) and dharma (righteousness). The Mahabharata states, “This is the sum of duty: do not do to others what would cause pain if done to you.” This teaching encourages empathy, self-restraint, and harmony with all living beings.

Buddhism: “Treat Not Others in Ways That You Yourself Would Find Hurtful”

Text: Tripitaka (Pali Canon)

Buddhism promotes compassion and mindfulness. The Buddha advises, “Treat not others in ways that you yourself would find hurtful” (Udana-Varga 5:18). Practicing the Golden Rule means reducing suffering and fostering goodwill. By embracing kindness, Buddhists aim to create a more peaceful world.

Sikhism: “I Am a Friend to All”

Text: Guru Granth Sahib

Sikhism teaches that all people are equal in the eyes of the Divine. The Guru Granth Sahib states, “I am a stranger to no one, and no one is a stranger to me. Indeed, I am a friend to all.” This belief inspires Sikhs to live with humility, kindness, and service. The principle of seva (selfless service) encourages compassion and respect for others.

Taoism: “Regard Your Neighbor’s Gain as Your Own”

Text: Tao Te Ching

Taoism seeks harmony with the Tao (the Way). Laozi advises, “Regard your neighbor’s gain as your own gain, and your neighbor’s loss as your own loss” (Tao Te Ching, Chapter 49). This teaching encourages individuals to see themselves as interconnected, fostering a sense of shared well-being.

Latter-day Saint Movement (Mormonism): “Do Even So to Them”

Text: Book of Mormon

Mormonism embraces the Golden Rule as a key moral teaching. The Book of Mormon states, “Therefore, all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them” (3 Nephi 14:12). This mirrors Jesus’ words in the New Testament and encourages love, charity, and consideration for others.

Shinto: Sincerity and Harmony

Text: Kojiki

Shinto, Japan’s indigenous spirituality, does not state the Golden Rule in one phrase but reflects similar values. The concept of “magokoro” (true heart) emphasizes sincerity and harmony in relationships. Practicing Shinto means living with purity, respect, and a commitment to peace within communities and nature.

Tibetan Buddhism: Compassion for All

Text: Bardo Thodol (Tibetan Book of the Dead)

Tibetan Buddhism expresses the Golden Rule through karuna (compassion). Acts of kindness improve karma and lead to spiritual growth. The Tibetan Book of the Dead teaches that suffering is universal. Compassionate actions can ease that suffering and bring enlightenment.

The Golden Rule is Universal

Regardless of religion or philosophy, the Golden Rule teaches kindness and compassion. From the Bible’s call to “do unto others” to the Buddha’s guidance on avoiding harm, this message resonates across cultures. By applying these teachings in daily life, we create a world built on understanding, empathy, and respect.