Ethical Development Possible Through Inter-Faith Partnerships

ETHICAL DEVELOPMENT POSSIBLE THROUGH INTER-FAITH PARTNERSHIPS Religions have two essential aspects—theology and ethics. While there are differences in the theologies of different religions, there is little difference between their basic ethical systems. Theology relates to the set of beliefs or the doctrinal base of religion. In terms of theology, there are obvious differences between religions. For example, some religions have a monistic concept of the Divine, while others believe in a monotheistic concept of God. Differences of this kind have always been the subject of discussion among theologians, and no doubt they will continue to be so in the future. However, like other intellectual discussions about such differences, they are confined to scholars and have little to do with the ‘common’ people. The latter can live out their daily lives without concern or knowing about these issues. These matters concern a few individuals and not the masses of any society, generally speaking. However, these theological differences are not simply matters about which people may be at odds with each other. They also have a positive role to play. In the sphere of religion, theological differences invite discussion, which can lead to intellectual exchange and necessitate knowing more and more about one’s faith as well as the religion of others. Thus, theological differences can result in intellectual progress by enhancing one’s level of thinking and awareness. In addition,