They all claim that their faith promotes peace and coexistence. Yet, their theology predicts violence to annihilate the others. In other words, in God's name, peace would come only after bloodshed.
End of the world scenario
Here is the end-of-the-world scenario in different religions before God resorts to peace.
Zoroastrianism
Scenario: Final Battle and Frashokereti (Renovation)
In Zoroastrianism, the world will experience a final struggle between good and evil, led by Ahura Mazda (the God of wisdom) against Ahriman (the spirit of evil). Following this battle, all souls will face judgment, and the righteous will enter purified earth while the wicked will live in a fiery river.
Outcome: A renewed, purified world where good prevails eternally.
Hinduism
Scenario: Cycles of Creation and Destruction
Hinduism views time as cyclical, consisting of four ages (yugas). At the end of the current age, the Kali Yuga, it is believed that the world will undergo a period of destruction led by the God Shiva. The God Vishnu, as the Kalki avatar, is prophesied to appear to restore righteousness. After this destruction, the cycle of creation begins anew.
Outcome: Cosmic renewal, leading to the beginning of a new age and cycle.
Buddhism
Scenario: End of the Dharma and Maitreya's Arrival
Buddhism focuses less on an end-of-the-world scenario but foresees a decline in Buddha's teachings (Dharma) over time. Eventually, a future Buddha named Maitreya will appear to renew the teachings and lead beings toward enlightenment. It is a rebirth of moral order rather than a literal end.
Outcome: The arrival of Maitreya and the restoration of Dharma.
Judaism
Scenario: Messianic Age and Resurrection
Jewish teachings on the end times are varied, but many texts describe a Messianic Age led by a descendant of King David (the Messiah). This era will usher in peace, justice, and the ingathering of exiled Jews to Israel. Some beliefs include a resurrection of the dead and a final judgment.
The Seven Noahide Laws: According to Jewish tradition, non-Jews must follow the Seven Noahide Laws, which are fundamental moral principles (e.g., prohibitions against murder, theft, and idolatry) to survive. Living by these values is seen as fulfilling the universal covenant with God, allowing non-Jews to have a place in the World to Come.
Outcome: A restored and peaceful world under divine guidance.
Christianity
Scenario: Second Coming and Final Judgment
Christianity teaches that the end times will involve the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, who will return to judge the living and the dead. The Book of Revelation describes apocalyptic events, including wars, natural disasters, and the final battle between good and evil (Armageddon). Believers will get eternal life, while the unrighteous will face eternal separation from God.
Outcome: A new heaven and earth where peace, justice, and righteousness reign.
Islam
Scenario: Day of Judgment and Resurrection
In Islam, the Day of Judgment (Yawm al-Qiyamah) will come after a period of great tribulation, during which signs include the arrival of the Antichrist (Dajjal), the return of Jesus (Isa), and the rise of a just leader (Imam Mahdi). Everyone will come to life and be judged based on their deeds, leading to paradise (Jannah) or hell (Jahannam).
Outcome: Eternal life in paradise for the righteous and damnation for the wicked.
Sikhism
Scenario: Spiritual Liberation and Union with God
Sikhism does not have an explicit end-of-the-world narrative. Instead, it focuses on spiritual liberation (mukti), achievable in this life by uniting with God. There are references to the end of an age (yuga), which aligns more with moral rather than physical apocalypses, where divine truth and justice will replace spiritual ignorance and corruption.
Outcome: Continual cycle of spiritual renewal and justice.
Peace on the blood and bones and of humans
Despite their differences, these beliefs often include themes of justice, renewal, and hope for a restored world or liberated state of existence. Many religions emphasize moral behavior in the present life to prepare for these final events, whether literal or symbolic.
Here's a summary of how some significant religions view peace:
Hinduism
Core Concept: Peace through Dharma and Non-violence
Hinduism views peace as aligning oneself with dharma (moral order) and ahimsa (non-violence), which are essential for a harmonious society. Inner peace comes through self-knowledge and spiritual growth.
Key Teaching: The Bhagavad Gita discusses the importance of inner peace through self-control, understanding, and devotion, all of which contribute to societal peace.
Buddhism
Core Concept: Inner Peace and Compassion
Buddhism emphasizes achieving inner peace through meditation, mindfulness, and following the Eightfold Path. Compassion, or karuṇā, is a fundamental principle. The ultimate goal is to reach Nirvana, a state of liberation and peace free from suffering.
Key Teaching: Ahimsa (non-violence) and overcoming anger and hatred contribute to peace within oneself and others.
Judaism
Core Concept: Peace through Justice and Covenant with God
In Judaism, peace, or shalom, goes beyond the absence of conflict; it represents wholeness, justice, and harmony. Peace comes through righteous actions, social justice, and faithfulness to God.
Key Teaching: The Hebrew Bible calls for compassion, charity, and justice to build a peaceful world, and the concept of tikkun olam ("repairing the world") encourages Jews to act toward global harmony.
Christianity
Core Concept: Peace through Love and Forgiveness
In Christianity, peace is closely tied to love, forgiveness, and reconciliation, as demonstrated by Jesus' teachings. Christians are encouraged to be "peacemakers" (Matthew 5:9), fostering community harmony and reconciliation.
Critical Teaching: The New Testament emphasizes "turning the other cheek" and loving one's enemies, which promotes a peace-oriented way of life.
Islam
Core Concept: Peace through Submission to God (Allah)
The term "Islam" itself derives from the Arabic word salaam, meaning peace. Peace in Islam comes from submitting to Allah's will and living by Islamic teachings. Justice, compassion, and community welfare are essential to achieving peace.
Critical Teaching: The Quran encourages Muslims to engage in peaceful coexistence and only use force defensively or as a last resort.
Sikhism
Core Concept: Peace through Equality and Service
Sikh teachings emphasize equality, service to humanity, and the unity of all beings under one God. Peace comes by living a righteous life, engaging in selfless service (seva), and supporting justice for all.
Key Teaching: Sikhs are encouraged to peacefully resist oppression and help create a fair and just society.
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