What are the key values intrinsic to Indian culture that enable it to welcome people of different backgrounds?
The key values intrinsic to Indian culture that enable it to welcome people of different backgrounds are rooted in ancient philosophical traditions.
'Vasudhaiva kutumbakam' — the philosophy that 'the whole world is family' — promotes seeing all humans as connected and worthy of care.
'Atithi devo bhava' — the principle that 'a guest is like God' — emphasises hospitality and respect for those seeking shelter.
'Sarve bhavantu sukhinah' — the wish that 'may all creatures be happy' — expresses compassion for all living beings.
The value of compassion as expressed in the Karaṇīya Mettā Sutta: 'Even as a mother protects with her life her only child, so with a boundless heart should one cherish all living beings.'
The tradition of peaceful coexistence and acceptance of diverse faiths and schools of thought has long been part of Indian society.
The idea of the fundamental unity of humankind as a core civilisational value underpins this welcoming nature.
These values have been practiced for millennia and have created a haven for persecuted communities from around the world.
Explanation
The chapter explicitly discusses these values on Page 16-17. It states: 'The idea of vasudhaiva kutumbakam, "the whole world is family", is not just a slogan but has been a practice for millennia.' It further explains that India developed many schools of thought whose 'core teachings included ideas like sarve bhavantu sukhinah or "may all creatures be happy", atithi devo bhava or "a guest is like God", and the value of compassion.' The chapter concludes that these 'values have universal relevance at a time when there are multiple crises facing the world.'
Solution Steps
Vasudhaiva kutumbakam — the philosophy that 'the whole world is family' promotes seeing all humans as connected and worthy of care
Atithi devo bhava — the principle that 'a guest is like God' emphasises hospitality and respect for those seeking shelter
Sarve bhavantu sukhinah — the wish that 'may all creatures be happy' expresses compassion for all living beings
The value of compassion as expressed in the Karaṇīya Mettā Sutta teaches cherishing all living beings with a boundless heart
The tradition of peaceful coexistence and acceptance of diverse faiths and schools of thought
The idea of the fundamental unity of humankind as a core civilisational value
These values have been practiced for millennia and created a haven for persecuted communities