Most major religions share a common principle that dates back more than 34 centuries to early Jewish teachings.
■ Judaism (about 14th century B.C.)
A certain unbeliever came to Rabbi Shammai and said: “Convert me provided that you teach me the entire Torah while I stand on one foot.” Shammai drove away the inquirer with the builder’s cubit which was in his hand, and went to Rabbi Hillel, who said: “What is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbor; that is the entire Torah; the rest is commentary; go earn it.”
■ Hinduism (Vedic religion from about the 14th century B.C.; Upanishads from fifth century B.C.)
Do not to others what ye do not wish done to yourself. This is the whole Dharma; heed it well.
■ Zoroastrianism (about 12th century B.C.)
Human nature is good only when it does not do unto another whatever is not good for its own.
■ Buddhism (about sixth century B.C.)
Hurt not others in ways that you yourself would find hurtful.
■ Udanavarga, 5:18
In happiness and suffering, in joy and grief, regard all creatures as you would regard your own self.
■ Confucianism (about sixth century B.C.
Do not do to others what you do not want done to yourself.
■ Christianity (about first century A.D.)
Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.
■ Islam (about seventh century A.D.)
No one of you is a believer until you desire for another that which you desire for yourself.
■ Sikhism (about 15th century A.D.)
Be not estranged from another for, in every heart, pervades the Lord.
■ Baha’i (about 19th century A.D.)
Ascribe not to any soul that which thou wouldst not have ascribed to thee, and say not that which thou doest not. This is my [Baha’u’llah’s] command unto thee, do thou observe it.
Do you think civility is important? If you think civility standards are a good idea, what do you think they should be? Click the box below to share your thoughts.
