Peace and Forgiveness

• Some Christians (e.g. Quakers) believe war is always wrong , while others believe war is acceptable under certain conditions
• Hindus believe they should build up good karma by working for peace and following ahimsa
• If a Hindu has a duty to fight , they are working to restore peace and harmony , so it is acceptable dharma
• What is Peace?

  The absence of war and conflict , which leads to harmony and happiness
• Why might it be hard to create peace during when at war?

  There is instability and resentment left after a war ends
• Peace can come through prayer and meditation , which helps people avoid conflict
• What do Christians believe about Peace?

  God will bring peace to the world at some time in the future - Isaiah 2:4
• What does Hinduism teach about Peace?

  Inner peace can be achieved by meditation , service and self knowledge
• What is Justice?

  Bringing about what is right and fair according to the law - or making up for a wrong that has been committed
• Justice is linked to equality and the idea that it is just to give everyone the same oppurtunities
• Conflict can result from governments being seen as a cause of inequality and injustice
• What do Christians believe about Justice?

  God is the ultimate judge and will establish justice at some point in the future
• What does Hinduism teach about Justice?

  It is a Person's duty to act justly and protect the weak from the strong - acting justly is an acceptable reason for Hindus to fight in a war
• What is Forgiveness?

  Showing compassion and mercy , and pardoning someone for what they have done wrong
• Forgiveness does not mean no should be taken to right a wrong -but when conflict is over , forgiveness should follow
• What do Christians believe about forgivness?

  The Lord's Prayer teaches Christians to forgive others if they wish to be forgiven - Christians believe God sets the example by offering forgivness to all who ask for it
• What do Hindus believe about forgiveness?

  Being forgiven is a way to achieve inner peace - people who reach this state can spread love and forgiveness and make the world more harmonious
• Hindus are taught that forgivness make the world a better place - 'By forgiveness is it that the whole universe is held together' : Mahabharata 3 , Vana Parva 29
• What is reconcilliation?

  Restoring friendly relationships after conflict
• What is needed for reconcilliation?

  A conscious effort to rebuild the relationship
• Hindus and Christians might ask for help from God , a priest or a counsellor when trying reconcile with others - This might be because they seek forgiveness or wish to move forward