Swami Vivekananda's iconic address at the Parliament of the World's Religions in Chicago on September 11, 1893,
"Sisters and Brothers of America…"
These words echoed in the halls of the Parliament of the World’s Religions, drawing heartfelt applause and reverberating through hearts and minds. With this greeting, Swami Vivekananda extended a message of unity and love that transcended all boundaries.
"I am proud to belong to a religion which has taught the world both tolerance and universal acceptance. We believe not only in universal toleration, but we accept all religions as true. The present convention…is in itself a vindication, a declaration to the world of the wonderful doctrine preached in the Gita: Whosoever comes to Me, through whatsoever form, I reach him; all men are struggling through paths which in the end lead to Me."
Swami Vivekananda shared that India's ancient wisdom had long held the truth that every path can lead to the Divine. In his words, he quoted from the Bhagavad Gita and the sacred texts of the Upanishads, affirming that diverse spiritual traditions are simply different rivers leading to the same vast ocean.He spoke passionately of India’s inclusive approach, embodying a spirit of openness and respect for all religions and philosophies. Swami Vivekananda believed that harmony, not discord, was the natural state of humanity when we embrace each other's beliefs with respect and humility.
"Sectarianism, bigotry, and its horrible descendant, fanaticism, have long possessed this beautiful earth. They have filled the earth with violence, drenched it often with human blood, destroyed civilization, and sent whole nations to despair."
This powerful statement warned of the dangers of intolerance and highlighted the urgent need for unity among people of different faiths. Swami Vivekananda’s message was not just for his audience in Chicago but a timeless reminder to all of humanity of the importance of harmony, compassion, and a recognition of our shared divinity.
In closing, he reaffirmed his vision of a world where each religion, each path, contributes to the upliftment of humanity:
"I fervently hope that the bell that tolled this morning in honor of this convention may be the death-knell of all fanaticism, of all persecutions with the sword or with the pen, and of all uncharitable feelings between persons wending their way to the same goal."
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This address, with its deep emphasis on unity and respect, continues to inspire us on the Path of Viveka, reminding us that every journey toward truth is sacred and that the beauty of spiritual diversity enriches all humanity.