Concept of Peace in Hindu Dharma

By Dr. Zafar Darik Qasmi, New Age Islam 28 June 2025 Hinduism, one of the world’s oldest living religions, gives a deep spiritual meaning to peace. Unlike the common view that peace is simply the absence of war or violence, Hindu Dharma sees Shanti (peace) as a state of inner harmony, balanced living, and universal coexistence. It teaches that real peace begins within an individual and then spreads to society and the entire universe. It is also true that Peace has always been a timeless dream, cherished by humanity since the beginning of creation. However, in today’s modern world, its importance and scope have grown many times over. "Peace" is a word that does not have one universally agreed definition. Different scholars have described it in various ways: as silence, calmness, absence of disturbance or conflict, a state of safety or order, or reconciliation after hardship. However, peace can best be understood and appreciated in the absence of its opposites—such as war, conflict, unrest, violence, terrorism, and destruction. Religion has been a fundamental part of almost every human society. It is often defined as "a set of beliefs concerning the origin, nature, and purpose of life and the universe, especially when viewed as the creation of a supernatural power." All major religions of humanity have always promoted peace and encouraged people to live with universal brotherhood. While Ahimsa (non-violence) is a core principle in Aryan religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, the Semitic religions—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam—share common beliefs in Monotheism, Prophets, and the Afterlife, and they too promote interfaith harmony and reconciliation as not only means of worldly peace but also as actions that bring great rewards in the hereafter. Religions usually provide a moral code that guides personal behavior, but unfortunately, humans do not always live up to the noble values they claim to believe in. In this article, we will explore the teachings of Hindu Dharma that advocate peace and harmony. Peace and tranquillity are essential for any society—physically, spiritually, morally, and intellectually. A truly healthy and ethical society requires both external peace and internal harmony. Hindu Dharma, also known in ancient texts as Vedic Dharma or Sanatan Dharma, offers several teachings that can guide humanity toward such peaceful living. Sadly, many of these teachings are no longer being followed in today's world. The Meaning of "Shanti" (Peace) In Sanskrit, the word Shanti means peace, calm, and contentment. It doesn’t just mean the absence of noise or conflict—it refers to the harmonious state of the body, mind, and soul. In Hindu philosophy, peace is essential for spiritual growth and social balance. That's why peace is often invoked in Hindu prayers, for example: "Om Shanti, Shanti, Shanti" (May there be peace in the body, mind, and environment) Inner Peace and Self-Realization Hinduism teaches that true peace comes from within. Through self-control, detachment from material desires, and Atma-Gyaan (self-knowledge), one can achieve inner calm. Spiritual practices like meditation, yoga, prayers, and chanting (japa) help connect a person with the Divine and bring peace of mind. Dharma – Righteous Living "Dharma" is a central concept in Hinduism and means living with truth, responsibility, and ethics. When a person fulfills their moral and social duties honestly and selflessly, they not only achieve personal peace but also contribute to a just society. Dharma includes values like truth, kindness, non-stealing, and duty. Following dharma creates harmony within families, communities, and with nature. Many of today’s social problems, like corruption and unrest, arise because people have drifted away from dharma. Ahimsa – The Principle of Non-Violence Ahimsa, or non-violence, is one of Hinduism’s highest virtues. It means not causing harm to any living being through thoughts, words, or actions. Ahimsa teaches love, compassion, tolerance, and respect for all life. Great leaders like Mahatma Gandhi based their philosophy of social justice and peace on Ahimsa. Linguistically, "Ahimsa" comes from: "A" (not) + "Himsa" (to harm) = "not harming" Ahimsa is not only about avoiding physical violence but also mental and emotional harm. It’s a complete lifestyle rooted in spirituality and unity. In Hindu belief, every living being has a soul (Atma) which is part of the universal soul (Parmatma). Hurting any creature is, therefore, like harming the Divine itself. That is why Ahimsa is considered a spiritual duty in Hinduism. In the Bhagavad Gita, though war is discussed, its deeper message is that any action—even conflict—should be free of hatred and selfish motives, and only for restoring justice (Dharma). According to Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, Ahimsa is the first Yama (moral restraint) in yoga. A person who practices Ahimsa neither creates fear in others nor lives in fear himself or herself. Practical Aspects of Ahimsa in Hindu Philosophy: Ahimsa in thoughts: Avoiding hate, revenge, or anger. Ahimsa in speech: Speaking gently, truthfully, and respectfully. Ahimsa in actions: Avoiding physical harm to humans or animals. Sadly, in today’s world, some communities are deliberately being harmed, which is against the very essence of Ahimsa. As Gandhi said: “Ahimsa is not the weapon of the weak, but the path of the brave.” Ahimsa is also central in Buddhism and Jainism, where it is practiced as a sacred duty. In a world full of violence, war, racism, religious hatred, and environmental crisis, the message of Ahimsa is more needed today than ever. If humanity adopts this principle: Wars can end. People and nature can live in harmony. Social hatred can disappear. Inner peace can be achieved. Ahimsa purifies the human heart and leads to love, compassion, and dignity for all. It is not just a rule but a complete way of life. Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – The World Is One Family This ancient Vedic teaching promotes the idea that "the whole world is one family." It encourages universal brotherhood, tolerance, and mutual respect across religions, races, and nations. This concept supports global peace and coexistence. Karma and Peaceful Living According to Hinduism’s law of Karma, every action has a result. Good deeds bring peace and happiness, while bad actions bring sorrow. This teaches individuals to act with consciousness, fairness, and compassion, thus building a peaceful society. Peace in Hindu Prayers and Scriptures In Hinduism, peace is not just a moral value—it is a divine goal. Almost every prayer ends with a wish for peace. For example: “Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah, Sarve Santu Niramaya…” (May all be happy, may all be free from disease...) The Shanti Mantras in the Vedas pray for the well-being of humans, animals, nature, and all elements of the universe. Balancing Peace with Duty Although Hindu Dharma values peace greatly, it also recognizes that sometimes protecting Dharma may require action. As the Bhagavad Gita teaches: if peaceful means fail, one must still work to establish justice—but without hatred or selfishness. Conclusion In Hinduism, peace is not just the absence of violence—it is a deep spiritual mission. It is achieved through inner purity, moral living, non-violence, and global unity. Hindu Dharma envisions a world where all beings live in harmony—not through force, but through understanding, love, and divine wisdom. In this philosophy, peace is not a final destination but a continuous journey of self-realization, compassion, and spiritual connection. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/spiritual-meditations/peace-hindu-dharma/d/136013 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism