The Problem Of Sectarianism

the home. At home, unpleasant events happen daily, but people tolerate them because they know that intolerance would break the family. However, when a similar unpleasant incident occurs outside the home, people respond with anger. The only way to resolve sectarian issues is to eliminate this double standard in people’s thinking. I recall a gentleman from my childhood who often recited a couplet to his relatives. He used to say, “Just remember this one couplet, and all your family problems will vanish.” The couplet was: Kabhi bhool kar kisi se na karo sulook aisa Ke jo tum se koi karta tumhe nagawaar hota Never treat anyone in such a way That if someone treated you the same, you would dislike it This couplet beautifully expresses the meaning of a Hadith in poetic form. Without a doubt, it is one of the greatest principles for successful social living. If people follow this one teaching, all problems—whether within the home or outside—will be resolved. Consider this example: Mr. A and Mr. B lived in the same neighborhood. One day, Mr. A’s son misbehaved with Mr. B’s son and provoked his anger. In retaliation, Mr. B’s son struck Mr. A’s son. At this point, Mr. A came out and began lecturing Mr. B’s family about the importance of living