“For me the different religions are beautiful flowers from the same garden, or they are branches of the same majestic tree. Therefore they are equally true, though being received and interpreted through human instruments equally imperfect.”
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Source: Harijan (30 January 1937), p. 407; reproduced in My God (1962)
About this quote
Many traditions can point toward the same truth, each one colored and limited by the imperfect people carrying it. Holding that view lets you keep your own conviction while dropping contempt for someone else's path, since no one holds the whole picture cleanly.
When to use it
- Neighbors of different faiths swapping holiday food and keeping their own beliefs intact.
- A classroom studying several traditions side by side with equal respect.
- A mixed-belief family that finds shared ground at the dinner table without anyone converting.