Humanism is a philosophy that focuses on Luman values and concerns, emphasizing the importance of these principles in our daily lives. This perspective is deeply ingrained in humanity’s essence, as if divinely intended by Almighty God to distinguish us from other species. Many argue that humanism is a secular ideology that champions reason, ethics, and justice. It stands apart from religion, which revolves around its distinct ethical philosophies, rituals, and beliefs. With its emphasis on reason and morality, humanism enriches our existence and guides us towards a more enlightened and compassionate path.
True humanism can only be understood if one is enlightened by God-knowledge and has a clear perception of the Creator and the creation. The human values, ethics and beliefs, as enunciated by the True Master, are the guidelines for the journey through this materialistic world. The True Master says, “Life gets a meaning if it is lived for others.” This decree encompasses the vast reservoir of directions and guidelines for our lifestyle. God’s rewards and punishments are based on our deeds:
My deeds have begotten me the result, and I have none to blame.
HUMANISM
One of the ancient comparisons of humanism stressed that humans had the free will to travel up and down a moral scale, with ‘God and Angles‘ being at the top and ‘Satan‘ being at the bottom. Such morals and values were taught in the Chrisitianised Society. Similarly, Judaism defined ethics and morality to serve human needs, and indicated that choices should be based upon “consideration of the consequences of actions” rather than upon preordained rules or commandments. The humanistic philosophy of Budhism epitomises the integration of people’s spiritual practice into all aspects of their daily lives. Their philosophy encompasses all the Buddhist teachings from the time of Gautama Buddha. Its goal is to live the Bodhisattva way, which means to be an energetic, enlightened and endearing person who strives to help all sentient beings liberate (Enlighten) themselves. It focuses on issues of the world rather than on how to leave the world behind; on caring for the living, rather than the dead; on benefiting others; rather than benefiting oneself and on universal salvation, rather than for only oneself. It emphasises on spirituality based daily life but full of wisdom, of compassion and ethical responsibility, to have the best interests of others in one’s mind and heart and to bring joy to all beings having deep care and concern for others.
The Sant Nirankari Mission believes that man becomes human only if he imbibes human values such as love, humanity and compassion. If there is love in our heart, it is reflected in our word and deed. Some of the qualities reflecting humanism may be enumerated as helping attitude, compassion, humility, tolerance, sharing attitude, selfless service, positivity, ability to sacrifice and provide support, to share others’ sorrow, etc. In short, humanism denotes any activity which is beneficial to others and the society. Our prayers in the form of Prologue (Mangla Charan) and Epilogue (Dhooni) are for incorporation of the human values in our conduct and daily life. One can adapt to true humanism if one has attained enlightenment and follow the teachings of the True Master.