The Oneness of Humanity

implies that the concept of the unity of religion has yet to be put into practice. This is at variance with the facts. It is a matter of history that this concept has been experimented with on a very high plane, yet it has been an utter failure. The emperor Akbar, with all the power of the state, Dr. Bhagwan Das with all his encyclopedic knowledge, Mahatma Gandhi, with all his massive following are some of the prominent names which appear on the list of unsuccessful experimenters. This shows that the real problem facing us today is not the difficulties of experimenting with the concept of the unity of religion, but rather the lack of the desired result after prolonged experiment. In other words, what is lacking is not a valid theory, but a positive outcome. What is needed in this case is to find another solution rather than repeat an experiment that has failed again and again. The more proper and practicable viewpoint in this matter is one which is explained in the Quran. According to the Quranic concept, all human beings have been created from one single soul (4:1). That is, all human beings have a common source. They are the descendants of a common ancestor. This means that all human beings are each other’s brothers and sisters. The general acceptance that all are blood sisters and blood brothers will on its own produce unity. According to this concept, the basis for creating unity and mutual respect in society is the firm belief that, despite apparent differences, all belong to the same human brotherhood. This is the only formula for creating an atmosphere of respect and unity in society which is both practicable and also in accordance with nature. □