What Do Sacred Texts Like the Bible, Bhagavad Gita, and Quran Teach Us?

Every individual who delves into the teachings of sacred texts such as the Bible, Bhagavad Gita, and the Quran has their unique interpretations and conclusions. The funny part is that despite the basic principles being the same, these texts are laid out in different planes of understanding. This raises the question of whether reading these texts is worthwhile if they fundamentally convey the same messages.

Some might boast about having read all these exalted scriptures, while others might feel that the time spent understanding them was valuable. They often validating the teachings of each other in various ways, suggesting a common underlying truth that resonates across these texts.

Instruction Manuals for Life

In the broader sense, these texts can be considered instruction manuals for living. They are tailored to different levels of understanding and knowledge of the individuals who read them, making them accessible and relevant. Just as a 5-year-old wouldn't be given an accountancy book, the same texts are provided to individuals based on their level of comprehension and maturity.

Despite the differences in the way these texts are presented, the core message remains unchanged and universal. This is particularly evident in the case of the Bhagavad Gita, where the essence of spiritual teachings is distilled into practical guidance.

Understanding Bhagavad Gita

The Bhagavad Gita is one of the most revered scriptures in Hinduism. It is part of the epic Mahabharata and has been a source of profound spiritual wisdom for centuries. Here are some key verses from Upanishads, compared with verses from the Bhagavad Gita and the Quran, highlighting the consistent message:

Upanishads

The Upanishads, also known as the Vedantic scriptures, are considered sacred writings in Hindu tradition. Here are a few verses from the Upanishads

Chandogya Upanishad (6:2:1)
Constitutes the early foundational thoughts on the nature of the self and the supreme Brahman.

Svetaswatara Upanishad (6.9)
Talks about the oneness and the indivisibility of the supreme self.

Upanishads (Svetaswatara 4:19)
Stresses the incomparability and uniqueness of the divine.

These verses from the Upanishads are paralleled with verses from the Quran, further emphasizing the shared message of monotheism and the unique essence of the divine:

Quran 112:1-4
Consists of the opening surah, known as Surah Al-Ikhlas, which defines the oneness of God.

Quran 17:110, 7:180, 20:8, 59:23-24
Re-emphasizes the attributes and the beautiful names of Allah, each one attributing Unique and Perfect qualities to the one God.

Bible and Divine Attributes

The Bible teaches about the fundamental attributes of God through the teachings of Jesus Christ. While Jesus never claims to be divine in his own words, his teachings emphasize the importance of adhering to the commandments for salvation. Here are some verses from the Bible that highlight this message:

John 14:28, John 10:29, Matthew 12:28, Luke 11:20
These verses refute any suggestion of Jesus being deified, affirming his role as a prophet and the Messiah, sent by God to fulfill the law and to keep the commandments.

Matthew 5:17-20
Jesus clearly states that he came to fulfill the Law and the Prophets, not to abolish them.

Mark 12:29
Reinforces the First Commandment of monotheism, stemming from the teachings of Moses.

Attributes of God in Islam

In Islam, the attributes of God are extensively detailed in the Quran. Here are some key teachings:

Surah Al-Ikhlas (Quran 112:1-4)
Clear and concise declaration of the oneness of God, affirming that He is unique and has no partners.

Quran 21:22
Asserts that there are no partners to God, emphasizing monotheism.

Quran 17:110, 7:180, 20:8, 59:23-24
Portrays God as All-Powerful, All-Knowing, and the embodiment of all beautiful attributes.

The Quran also challenges the notion of multiple gods, explaining how this would lead to chaos and disorder in the universe. It affirmatively states the belief in the oneness of God and the unique attributes attributed to Him.

Comparison and Conclusion

Despite the different cultural and historical contexts in which these texts were written, they share a fundamental message about the oneness of God, the importance of aligning oneself with His will, and the role of prophets and messengers. Each text provides a unique perspective and a path towards spiritual and moral growth. Understanding these texts can enrich one's life and provide a deeper connection with the divine.

By studying these sacred texts, one can gain a profound understanding of the universal truths they convey. Whether through the teachings of the Gita, the revelations of the Quran, or the commandments of the Bible, each text offers a unique lens through which to view the Divine and one's place in the world.