THE ASIAN INDEPENDENT UK
By- Param Ghodeswar
In a time when the world teeters on the edge of conflict and division, it is imperative that nations, particularly those with a rich spiritual legacy, turn to paths of peace rather than violence. The teachings of the Buddha offer a timeless and universally relevant alternative to war—a path that promotes compassion, mindfulness, understanding, and the sanctity of all life. In contrast, war brings only destruction, suffering, and the erosion of our shared humanity. Central to his philosophy is the concept of the Four Noble Truths, which identify the causes of suffering—craving, ignorance, and attachment—and propose a path to liberation through the Noble Eightfold Path.
At the heart of this path are right understanding, right intention, and right speech, all of which encourage individuals to cultivate empathy, reduce hostility, and foster harmonious relationships. The practice of mindfulness helps individuals become aware of their thoughts and emotions, enabling them to respond to conflict with clarity and calmness rather than reactive aggression.
Furthermore, Buddha’s emphasis on compassion (karuṇā) and loving-kindness (mettā) promotes the idea of seeing others not as adversaries but as fellow beings deserving of respect and understanding. This shift in perspective can de-escalate tensions and create the foundation for peaceful dialogue. In essence, Buddha’s teachings suggest that the root of external conflicts lies within the human mind. By addressing inner struggles and fostering virtues such as patience, forgiveness, and non-attachment, societies can move towards lasting peace and the resolution of conflicts without resorting to violence.
The Dhamma, or the path shown by the Buddha, teaches that hatred does not cease by hatred but by love alone. This is not merely a spiritual ideal—it is a practical guide to resolving conflict at every level, from personal disputes to international crises.
Where war dehumanizes and divides, Buddhism urges understanding and unity. It recognises the interconnectedness of all beings and warns against the illusions of ego, greed, and ignorance that often fuel violence. A society shaped by these teachings would prioritise dialogue over aggression, tolerance over bigotry, and peace over power.
War: The End of Humanity
Every war is a step away from humanity. History is replete with examples of the devastation caused by armed conflicts—millions dead, civilizations crumbled, and generations left scarred. Modern warfare, with its nuclear and technological capabilities, holds the potential to annihilate not just nations, but all life on Earth.
No just cause can truly emerge from war; even victories are soaked in the blood of innocents. The resources wasted on war could instead be used to eliminate poverty, educate children, and heal the sick. The Buddha’s teachings remind us that violence breeds more violence, while only peace leads to lasting happiness.
India, the birthplace of the Buddha, holds a unique responsibility. It is a land where the seeds of enlightenment were first sown, where compassion first stood against violence, and where the light of peace began to shine. In today’s global climate, India must choose to embody this legacy.
Rather than seeking power through militarisation or engaging in hostilities, India can lead the world by reviving the values of the Buddha. It must promote interfaith dialogue, foster regional cooperation, and serve as a moral beacon in international affairs. Doing so would not only honour its spiritual heritage but also offer the world a powerful, peaceful alternative to conflict.
Nations must realise that war is not a solution—it is a surrender to our lowest instincts. The only victory worth striving for is the triumph of love over hate, understanding over ignorance, and peace over conflict.
Let the world choose the path of the Buddha—not as a religious choice, but as a moral imperative. Let us build a future where swords are melted into ploughshares, where children are taught compassion instead of hatred, and where the Earth is healed by the gentle footsteps of peace.
In the Buddha’s words: “May all beings be happy; may all beings be without disease. May all beings experience the sensation of auspiciousness. May nobody suffer in any way.”
