Concept of Interreligious Harmony in Sikhism and Caodaism: A Comparative Study

Abstract

The main focus of this thesis is to provide a comparative study of the concept of interreligious harmony in Sikhism and Caodaism. This conceptual research work identifies, analyzes, and explores interreligious harmony in Sikhism and Caodaism by following comparative methods of study and by putting forward constructive discussions and analysis. This research work maintains the standards of the Comparative Study of Religion, which includes an unbiased, unprejudiced study of religions with genuine respect, empathy, and sensitiveness. Interreligious harmony assumes great importance in this contemporary world. Its implications have been expanded from personal and religious spheres to the global atmosphere. A peaceful and harmonious environment is inevitable for a physically and psychologically healthy generation. Besides, interreligious harmony can assure political, social, cultural, national, and global stability. Lack of interreligious empathy and understanding has jeopardized world peace to a great extent. Consequently, problems like minority tension, racism, xenophobia, theory of replacement, islamophobia are at their peak. That is why the necessity of interreligious harmony is being felt at the global level much more than ever before. This thesis has taken an attempt to highlight the concept of interreligious harmony in Sikhism and Caodaism. In the fact-finding process, geographical, religious and sociohistorical accounts have been scrutinized to determine the rise and development of Sikhism and Caodaism. The necessity, development, and pattern of the concept of interreligious harmony have been analyzed from both religious and socio-historical perspectives of Sikhism and Caodaism. Comparative study of this thesis has explored that the rise and propagation of interreligious harmony by these religions was revolutionary for the respective societies. Besides, this thesis has clarified the research question that how the concept of universal religion of Caodaism and Sikhism is acceptable and possible, preserving individual convictions intact. Furthermore, it has been argued that both Sikhism and Caodaism propagate an inclusive unity not uniformity of religions and believe that this unity and harmony may lead towards sustainable global peace.