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Religion and Morality

Religion and the Golden Rule

The Golden Rule is a principle found in many religions that encourages individuals to treat others as they would like to be treated. The principle is often expressed as 'Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.'

Christianity

In Christianity, the Golden Rule is found in the Bible in Matthew 7:12: 'So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.'

Islam

Similarly, in Islam, the Prophet Muhammad is reported to have said, 'None of you truly believes until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself.' (Sahih Al-Bukhari)

Buddhism

The Golden Rule is not exclusive to Abrahamic religions. In Buddhism, the principle is expressed as 'Treat not others in ways that you yourself would find hurtful.' (Udanavarga 5:18)

The Golden Rule provides a basis for ethical behavior in many different cultures and religions. It encourages individuals to consider the impact of their actions on others and to act with empathy and compassion. However, critics of the Golden Rule argue that it can be too simplistic and may not account for cultural differences or power imbalances that can affect how individuals are treated.

Despite its limitations, the Golden Rule remains a powerful ethical principle that continues to influence moral thinking and behavior in many different contexts.

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