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Religion (dharma) was given to humanity to provide a civilized path for the reformation of character in order that its adherents might reach the ultimate goal (God). But today, it seems that even religion has lost track of its purpose. Therefore, it is essential, in this current environment of religious crisis, to underscore the similar—in the end, identical—underlying concepts of the various religions. By this means it is possible to bridge the ever-enlarging gulf that appears to separate the different religious traditions and between their followers. This "gulf” is actually an imaginary difference. It is often the result of superficial (exoteric) interpretations of a given religion which begin to dissolve when one investigates the tradition at a deeper (esoteric) level. When the various traditions are seen as different statements or paths to the same goal, the very image of religion, as a provider of peace and everlasting freedom, can be reestablished. This book is a small attempt in this direction.
What is Dharma?
What is religion (dharma!)? The Sanskrit word, dharma, is generally defined as “righteousness” or “duty.” Thus, in its broadest sense dharma means performing one's sacred duty and
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