THE GOLDEN RULE ACROSS THE WORLD’S RELIGIONS SACRED TEXTS

Some people argue that the Golden Rule is the most consistent, moral standard throughout history. Known also as the Ethic of Reciprocity, the Golden Rule is found in most religions and cultures. It is present throughout history it gives tremendous moral authority. Its message is simple, universal and powerful. Canada has become a multi-faith society and the Golden Rule philosophy speaks to the many religions that make up our great nation.

BuddhismTreat not others in ways that you yourself would find hurtful

The Buddha, Udana-Varga 5.18

ChristianityIn everything, do to others as you would have them do to you; for this sums up the Law and the Prophets

Jesus, Matthew 7:12

Confucianism One word which sums up the basis of all good conduct… loving-kindness. Do not do to others what you do not want done to yourself

Confucius, Analects 15.23

HinduismThis is the sum of duty: do not do to others what would cause pain if done to you

Mahabharata 5:1517

IslamNot one of you truly believes until you wish for others what you wish for yourself

The Prophet Muhammad, Hadith

JudaismWhat is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbour. This is the whole Torah; all the rest is commentary. Go and learn it.

Hillel, Talmud, Shabbath 31a

Native SpiritualityWe are as much alive as we keep the earth alive.

Chief Dan George

SikhismI am a stranger to no one; and no one is a stranger to me. Indeed I am a friend to all

Guru Granth Sahib, p.1299

TaoismRegard your neighbour’s gains as your on gain and your neighbour’s loss as your own loss

Lao Tzu, T’ai Shang Kan Ying P’ien, 213-218

JainismOne should treat all creatures in the world as one would like to be treated

Mahavira, Sutrakitanga

UnitarianismWe affirm and promote respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part

Unitarian Principle

ZoroastrianismDo not do unto others whatever is injurious to yourself

Shayast-na-Shayast 13.29

THE GOLDEN RULE: TASK

Part A: Class Discussion (5 Marks)

1. Discuss any similairities and differences regarding the Golden Rule of the various religions with a partner. Which version of the Golden Rule do each of you like best? Provide reasons for this and share with the class.

Communication Level 4 Level 3 Level 2 Level 1 GradeStudent expresses major differences and similairites between the different versions of the “Golden Rule.” Thoroughly explains their choice for the version they like the best

Execptional clarity in stating differences among religions and personal point of view

Thorough clarity in stating differences among religions and personal point of view

Some clarity in stating differences among religions and personal point of view

Limited clarity in stating differences among religions and personal point of view /5

Part B: Report (15 Marks)

1. What happens in a society if people generally fail to follow the Golden Rule? If the members of a society fail to follow the Golden Rule and social disorder results, can order then be imposed through more and stricter laws? Through harsher punishments? Explain (4 marks thinking)

2. What do you say to a child who hits his brother and justifies his actions by saying “he did it to me first, I just got even!!” (2 marks application)

3. Are these examples of the Golden Rule? (explain 1 sentence each) (5 marks application) a. A mentally ill man who hurts others so others will hurt him.b. Doing to others the bad things that they have already done to you.c. Doing to others what you think they would do to you if given the chance.d. Using “An eye for an eye; a tooth for a tooth” as a guide when mistreatede. Giving someone a gift hoping that they will give you a more costly one

4. Is “following the Golden Rule” all that is needed to live a moral life? Explain (4 marks thinking)