Words of wisdom

"We have exploited nature too much. When we develop a proper attitude towards different forms of life then we would value human life more. If we do not care for the lives of animals then we would have the same attitude toward human beings,” were the wise words of the Dalal Lama in conversation with Dr Homi Dhalla in Delhi recently. Dhalla, founder of the World Zarathushti Cultural Foundation, first met the Tibetan spiritual leader in Italy in 1986 at an international interfaith conference organized by Pope John Paul II and has interacted with him over the years in the course of his involvement with the interfaith movement worldwide. Considered the conscience keeper of humanity today, the Dalai Lama has been honored by 84 countries for his yeoman service to humanity, informs Dhalla in his email.

When asked what measures he would suggest to stop violence in the world, the monk said that educational guidance is vital. "Violence is very much related to our inner destructive emotions… anger, fear, jealousy and greed are the source of violence… Violence not only harms others but is harmful to one’s own peace of mind. And when more violence is committed, more anxiety, frustration and anger are generated which are detrimental to our health.”
Regarding technology, he opined, "Technology by itself is very good — it makes our lives easier and brings the world closer which we really need today.” But, he cautioned, "We must use technology in a constructive manner, not in a destructive way through weapons which include nuclear weapons… In the 21st century there has been a lot of development in technology and the sciences. We must now create this century of compassion on the basis of the sense of oneness of all human beings… If we respect other people as brothers and sisters there is no desire to kill.” Over 200 million people had been killed during the 20th century in wars and civil wars. The Dalai Lama felt the youth could promote world peace through greater awareness and proper education.
The "cultural genocide” that has been taking place in his homeland, Tibet, is a cause of sorrow. "A lot of restrictions have been placed on Tibet and great damage done to Tibetan culture and heritage. Political education has been started in monasteries and nunneries.” Many monasteries have been destroyed, hundreds of thousands of monks have disappeared and books and manuscripts burned. However, today there is a rapid increase in the Buddhist population in China, and many Chinese Buddhists are showing "genuine interest” in the religion.
Human rights violations against women and children in many parts of the world are because "basically a man thinks he is superior… men need women and women need men… full cooperation between men and women is necessary. Biologically, a woman has greater potential — so instead of looking down on women we must treat them equally and urge them to give affection particularly to children… (today) the educational system is materialistic. Materialistic education is not sufficient — inner or spiritual values should be included in our educational system.”
With more people today opting to follow the spiritual path rather than their own religion, "we need a universal way to approach the inner values, ethics… (as) all religions are based on secular values. In India, I think that because of the strong tradition of secularism, all major world religions have lived together — like Zoroastrians who are small in numbers but enjoy complete religious freedom.”
Rayomand Noble, who has been actively involved with Dhalla’s projects was responsible for the photography and filming of the interview with the Dalai Lama.