In a remarkable milestone, the world commemorates 130 years since Swami Vivekananda delivered his iconic speech on Hinduism at the Parliament of the World’s Religions in Chicago. This historic oration marked his pivotal role in introducing Hinduism and Indian spirituality to the Western world. Vivekananda initiated his speech with the now-famous words, “Sisters and brothers of America,” captivating the audience and setting the tone for his message of universal brotherhood and religious harmony. Here is a glimpse of his address:
“Sisters and Brothers of America,
It fills my heart with indescribable joy to stand before you today in response to the warm and cordial welcome extended to us. I express my gratitude in the name of the most ancient order of monks globally, in the name of the mother of religions, and on behalf of millions and millions of Hindu individuals representing diverse classes and sects.”
Vivekananda proceeded to emphasize the significance of tolerance and the acceptance of diverse religious beliefs. He stressed the idea that all religions ultimately lead to the same truth and highlighted the necessity for harmonious coexistence among different faiths, emphasizing the recognition of divinity within every individual.
Here are nine profound lines from his unforgettable speech:
1. “I take pride in belonging to a religion that has not only preached tolerance to the world but has also embraced all religions as true.”
2. “Our belief extends beyond universal toleration; we consider all religions as pathways to truth.”
3. “This present gathering, one of the most august assemblies ever convened, stands as a testament—a proclamation to the world of the profound doctrine articulated in the Bhagavad Gita: ‘Whosoever approaches Me, regardless of their chosen path, I reach out to them; all individuals tread their distinct paths, ultimately converging towards Me.'”
4. “If the Parliament of Religions has demonstrated anything to the world, it is this: it has proven that sanctity, purity, and compassion are not exclusive to any single religious institution. Every tradition has produced individuals of the highest moral character.”
5. “Sectarianism, intolerance, and its dreadful offspring—fanaticism—have long plagued this beautiful planet. They have inundated the earth with brutality, repeatedly soaked it in human blood, and driven entire civilizations to despair.”
6. “I ardently hope that the bell that chimed this morning to honor this assembly might become the requiem for fanaticism, persecution—whether through weapons or words—and all divisive sentiments among those journeying toward a common destination.”
7. “A Christian need not adopt Hinduism or Buddhism, nor should a Hindu or Buddhist embrace Christianity. Rather, each should assimilate the spirit of the other while preserving their individuality and evolving according to their unique path of progress.”
8. “As rivulets from diverse sources merge their waters in the sea, likewise, O Lord, the distinct journeys that individuals undertake, marked by various inclinations, divergent though they may seem, ultimately lead to You.”
9. “Let us extol the ideal and avoid contentious disputes over the trivial.”
Swami Vivekananda’s speech profoundly impacted the audience and firmly established him as a significant figure in the global interfaith dialogue. His message of universalism, tolerance, and the spiritual essence of Hinduism left an enduring mark and continues to inspire people worldwide.
