According to the Bishops of India, the goal of religious dialogue is to establish…

Originated in Japan in 8th century BC, centers around worship of divine spirits, including powers of nature & ancestors

Philosophical and moral system which originated in 6th century BC China and believes we attain heaven by living out the five virtues

Founded by Lao Tzu in 6th century BC China; believes God, the universe, and man are one; and emphasizes harmony

Founded in Persia in 6th century BC; believes Creator God is present everywhere and in everything; man is a mixture of soul, body, and spirit; destiny based on deeds

Founded in India in 6th century BC by 24 Tirthankaras; believes that liberation is achieved by nonviolence, meditation, and asceticism; followers wear masks to avoid harming even insects

Founded in India in 6th century BC; believes desire is cause of suffering & sorrow; follows Eightfold Path

Founded by Guru Nanak in Punjab 15th century AD; combines elements of Hinduism & Islam; bhakthimarga is means for God realization and liberation from reincarnation

Believes in one God alone; honors Abraham & Moses; holy writings include the Torah, Prophets, and Writings; awaiting the promised Messiah

Revealed to Prophet Muhammad by Allah in 7th century AD; holy book is the Quran; lives by five pillars

Combines philosophy, theology, morality, and ritual; believes in many gods or one single divine essence; reincarnation based on karma; liberation achieved through wisdom, action, or bhakti

Originated in the context of Judaism; founded by Jesus Christ the Son of God; mission continued by the disciples of Jesus who formed the early Church

It is important to understand other religious traditions in our modern world