A purposeful Conversation between King Charles and Bernie Sanders

The Quran is not exclusively for Muslims; rather, it offers guidance for all humanity, similar to the Bhagavad Gita, the Bible, Torah, Guru Granth, Avesta, Agamas, Tripitaka, Kitab I Aqdas and other scriptures. Too often, we have confined these texts to specific religious groups, such as Muslims, Hindus, Christians, Jews, Sikhs, Jains, Bahai, Buddhists and the others. However, their true purpose is to foster unity and a sense of belonging within the broader human community. I encourage you to approach each scripture by considering its contribution to building cohesive societies. If you seek to understand the purpose of life and attain peace, do not limit these texts to particular religious identities; instead, recognize them as universal sources of wisdom.

Please do not read the Bhagavad Gita, the Quran and other books as the book of Hindus, Muslims or others – read them as a book to guide us to create cohesive societies.

The purpose of religion is to cultivate cohesive societies where every individual feels secure in their identity, regardless of belief, race, ethnicity, or other distinguishing characteristics. I hope the following three fundamental principles will resonate with you.

1. No religion possesses inherent superiority over another. Each serves to promote peace and harmony both internally and externally among its followers. Arrogance undermines relationships, while humility fosters mutual understanding and connection.
2. To achieve inner peace, it is essential to relinquish prejudice toward other social and religious systems. By respecting the distinctiveness of others and acknowledging each person’s unique qualities, conflicts are reduced and constructive solutions become attainable.
3. Religious texts and traditions are invitations to unity, not instruments of division. When studied and lived with humility, they strengthen social bonds rather than fracture them.

The following video clip was shared by my colleague Iftekhar Hai and it is worth watching, the conversation is inclusive even though its focus in on Islam:
https://youtu.be/6XWdbiEyMrQ?si=vBHhakfkc33mOY-m

As discussed by Prince Charles and Bernie Sanders, Islam demonstrates progressive principles. Further information is provided here:
https://interfaithmarriages.org/progressive-islam-reviving-the-prophets-vision-in-todays-world/

Religion as Universal Guidance

Religions and sacred texts — whether the Quran, the Bible, the Bhagavad Gita, or others — were composed to offer moral guidance and to cultivate communities rooted in compassion, justice, and service. The purpose of religion is not to build walls but to build bridges: between individuals, communities, and different traditions.

Dr. Mike Mohamed Ghouse has long argued that the Quran, like other sacred books, carries messages for all humanity — not just adherents of one faith. This outward-looking, pluralist interpretation invites readers to discover shared ethical teachings rather than narrow, exclusionary readings.

Unity through Distinctiveness
Diversity is not a problem to be fixed but a reality to be honored. Each tradition and culture contributes to the mosaic of human flourishing. Embracing this complexity makes communities resilient and compassionate, and ultimately enables them to live in peace and security.

Just remember, each of the 8 billion of us has his own thumbprint, eyeprint, and DNA —that is how unique we are. When we go through the grocery store, see the variety of vegetables, fruits, food grains, and other products. When you get on the road, see the diversity of cars, races, and ethnicities. Diversity is life, accepting and respecting that diversity is Pluralism.

Leadership, Dialogue, and Public Example

When public figures like King Charles and Senator Bernie Sanders engage respectfully about faith, they model a constructive national conversation. Such exchanges remind citizens that leadership can be a teacher — publicly demonstrating how humility and curiosity dismantle fear.

Practical Steps Toward Religious Pluralism

• Education: Teach comparative religion and ethical reasoning in schools to help young people appreciate common moral ground.
• Interfaith Rituals & Celebrations: Share ceremonies and cultural festivals to humanize “the other.”
• Civic Partnerships: Encourage faith groups to collaborate on civic projects (food banks, shelters, disaster relief) where shared service creates mutual trust.
• Legal Protections: Support laws that protect religious freedom and equality while preventing discrimination.
• Dialogue Spaces: Create sustained, safe spaces for honest conversation where people can tell their stories without being judged.
• Two critical questions: When you are biased towards others and feel tension free yourselves by asking what is my loss, and what is the essence of what they do. https://interfaithmarriages.org/mini-pluralism-workshop-what-is-my-loss-the-power-of-respect-and-harmony/

FAQs About the Purpose of Religion

1. What is the primary purpose of religion?
The primary purpose of religion is to guide individuals and communities toward moral living, to create cohesive societies, and to foster a sense of belonging and dignity for every person.

2. Is the Quran only for Muslims?
No — as argued by pluralists like Dr. Mike Ghouse, the Quran contains guidance that can be meaningful to humanity at large. See: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/quran-is-not-for-muslims_b_6174940

3. How does pluralism differ from tolerance?
Tolerance implies putting up with difference; pluralism implies active engagement, mutual respect, and valuing diversity as a social strength.

4. Can religions change and still remain authentic?
Yes. Religions have long traditions of reform and renewal. Progressive readings can revive core ethical teachings to address contemporary challenges. See: https://interfaithmarriages.org/progressive-islam-reviving-the-prophets-vision-in-todays-world/

5. Why emphasize humility in interfaith relations?
Humility reduces arrogance, which is often the root of conflict. It allows people to learn from each other rather than compete for moral high ground.

6. How can individuals help promote pluralism?
Engage respectfully with those different from you, volunteer alongside diverse groups, educate yourself about other faiths, and resist stereotyping.

Pluralism in Practice: Dr. Mike Ghouse’s Work

Dr. Ghouse’s life and work are exemplars of religious pluralism in action. He is a pluralist, activist, speaker, author, and social scientist who founded the Center for Pluralism in 1996. He also serves as Director of the World Muslim Congress and officiates interfaith and Muslim weddings at InterfaithMarriages.org.

Latest Articles & Profiles about Mike Ghouse

• A Lamp That Connects Hearts: Dr. Mike Mohamed Ghouse — A Radiant Journey of Love, Thought, and Service.
  https://thejagotimes.com/a-lamp-that-connects-hearts-dr-mike-muhammad-ghouse-a-radiant-journey-of-love-thought-and-service/
• Mr. Pluralist of America — Panorama.
  https://www.theindianpanorama.news/profile/dr-mike-mohamed-ghouse-mr-pluralist-of-america/
• Background of Dr. Mike Mohamed Ghouse (Muslim background).
  https://interfaithmarriages.org/muslim-background-of-dr-mike-mohamed-ghouse/
• Quran is not for Muslims at Huffington Post https://www.huffpost.com/entry/quran-is-not-for-muslims_b_6174940

Conclusion

The purpose of religion is to weave communities together through shared values of compassion, humility, justice, and dignity. Leaders, scholars, and activists — like those mentioned here — show how pluralism is not an abstract ideal but a living practice. The world’s major faith traditions can be, and often are, instruments of peace — when interpreted and lived with a spirit of openness and service.

Thank you.

Dr. Ghouse is the President and founder of the Center for Pluralism and director of the World Muslim Congress.  He is an Interfaith Wedding Officiant for InterfaithMarriages.org and a Muslim Wedding Officiant.  He is a Muslim, Pluralist, activist, speaker, author, and social scientist. More on Google