Religious Scholar

With one possible exception (Taoism), the world's major religious traditions have established succinct rules of conduct to help people navigate safely through the material world. They include:

10 Commandments   Judeo-Christian

5 Pillars                               Islam

8-Fold Path                       Buddhism

8 Limbs of Yoga            Hinduism

We tend to view these as opposing world views, mutually exclusive guidelines for specific traditions. But instead of thinking of them as diametrically opposed alternatives, what would happen if we thought of them collectively? Of course, there are certain religion-specific admonitions in the mix. But seeking out common themes, shouldn't we be heartened and encouraged by the large number of tenets, attitudes and inspirations they share? Each of these sets of guidelines has something unique to offer:

10 Commandments            Comprehensive

5 Pillars                                   Simple and easy to follow

8-fold Path                             Universal, not applicable only to the human condition

8-Limbs of Yoga                  Listed in ascending order (do #1 first, then move on through #8)

Without deviating from the rules of our particular religion--or no rules/no religion, if we prefer--we can learn much by studying and celebrating the wealth of wisdom inherent in all  of the time-tested pathways to a better life.  --Linda Brown Holt