“And there is no religion other than truth. Truth is Rama, Narayana, Ishwara, Khuda, Allah, God. As Narasinha says, 'The different shapes into which gold is beaten gives rise to different names and forms; but ultimately it is all gold.'”
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Probable attribution
This saying is widely associated with Mahatma Gandhi, but the attribution is not supported by a reliable primary source.
Likely origin: 'What is Hinduism?' (compilation of Gandhi's writings). Aligns with his documented 'Truth is God' theme and listing of divine names; bracketed Narasinha line appears editorial.
About this quote
The many names people give the divine are treated here as different shapes of one substance, like gold worked into varied ornaments that stay gold underneath. What matters is the reality they all reach toward. Seen that way, arguing over whose name is correct misses the shared thing every name points at.
When to use it
- Neighbors of different faiths notice their holiday customs are really honoring the same gratitude.
- A hospital chaplain comforts patients of every religion by speaking to what they share.
- A student of comparative religion stops ranking traditions and looks for their common core.