We live in a complex world filled with uncertainty and change. Where we go through our lives doing the best we can and living a life of routine based on personal experiences. Until one day, when we come to a point where we find ourselves questioning the meaning and purpose of our life. Especially at pivotal points when we might experience an awakening and deepening of faith. This is often when we begin to seek a deeper knowledge, truth, and understanding of the world around us.
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As we discover these new insights, we begin to focus more on the core values that are important to us and that we want to uphold. By learning to incorporate these positive shared values into our day-to-day living we are able to bring about the changes we intend and apply the new perspectives in a meaningful way.
These shared core values are found throughout ancient customs, scientific insights, religious beliefs, and spiritual practices alike. Signifying the importance and timelessness of these values. As well as showing how they transcend cultural boundaries and divisive ideas through their ability to resonate with our one human spirit.
Learning how to fully embrace these values brings us closer to reaching our full potential and living in our purpose.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the importance of living a life centered on these core values and the positive impact it can have on us as an individual person. We will also look at how incorporating these values can affect our relationships, communities, and society overall.
Shared Core Values
Truth: This refers to our seeking of universal truths and demonstrating the ability to live in truth no matter what we come against.
Knowledge: The belief that growth and learning are important.
Compassion: The importance of treating others with empathy and kindness.
Justice: The idea of fairness being central to our ethical teachings and bring equity into our human interactions.
Gratitude: Showing appreciation for our existence, life and blessings.
Unity: Advocating for harmony and realizing our interconnectedness despite our differences.
Humility: Showing a willingness to learn, displaying modesty when appropriate, and abstaining from demeaning others.
Service: The practice of helping others through different means to enhance their lives and for the overall greater good of humanity.
Mindfulness: Using practices like meditation and prayer to bring greater awareness, presence, clarity, and peace to our lives
Respect: Showing an appreciation and consideration for oneself, others, and the world around. Recognizing the worth, dignity, and rights of all people.
Core Values Across Belief Systems
Truth
Buddhism- Dharma refers to the ultimate truth or cosmic law that governs the universe.
Ancient Egyptian-the goddess Ma'at represented truth, justice, and cosmic order. The Pharaoh was considered the earthly embodiment of Ma'at and responsible for upholding truth and righteousness.
Physics- the theory of relativity proposed by Albert Einstein revolutionized our understanding of space, time, and gravity. Experimental evidence, such as the bending of light around massive objects, supports Einstein's theory.
Sikhism- truth (Sat) is one of the core values emphasized by Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism. Sikhs believe in living truthfully and honestly, aligning their actions with divine truth.
Christianity, Jesus Christ proclaimed, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (John 14:6) Christians believe in the absolute truth of Jesus' teachings as recorded in the Bible.
Knowledge
Islam- the pursuit of knowledge (ilm) is highly valued, and the Quran encourages believers to seek knowledge as a way to understand the signs of Allah's creation.
Hinduism- the search for self-knowledge (Atmajnana) is a main part of the spiritual journey. The Upanishads focus on self-realization as a path to liberation (Moksha).
Ancient Greek Philosophy- Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle pursued knowledge through rational inquiry and philosophical discourse. Their goal was to uncover universal truths about morality, existence, and the nature of reality.
Taoism- knowledge (Zhi) is seen as a way to achieve harmony with the Tao, the underlying principle of the universe. Taoist sages develop inner wisdom through meditation, simplicity, and living in sync with natural rhythms.
Judaism- knowledge (Da'at) includes intellectual understanding, spiritual insight, and wisdom gained through studying the Torah as well as being involved with Jewish traditions.
Compassion
Jainism- compassion (Ahimsa) includes love and empathy for all living beings. Jains practice compassion through vegetarianism, charity, and non-harming.
Ancient China- compassion (Ren) was a focus of Confucian ethics as a virtue that included kindness and empathy towards others.
Evolutionary Psychology- compassion (Altruism) is studied as an adaptive behavior that brings cooperation, equal give and take, and social connection.
Maori (New Zealand)- compassion is a part of the concept of "Aroha," which includes love, empathy, and compassion towards all living beings and the environment.
Yoruba- compassion is shown through "Iwa Pele," which means "good character" or "gentle behavior." kindness, empathy, consideration towards others, and keeping harmony within the community are ways that the concept of compassion are shown.
Justice
Sikhism- justice (Niau) is considered a divine principle upheld by Waheguru, the Supreme Being. Sikhs are called to stand up for justice, defend the oppressed, and work towards the establishment of a just society.
Ancient Rome- justice (Iustitia) was personified as a goddess symbolizing righteousness, fairness, and order. Romans believed in upholding the rule of law and ensuring equitable treatment for all citizens.
Sociology- justice is studied as a societal idea involving the fair distribution of resources, opportunities, and rights. Policies work to improve systemic inequalities, promote equity, and inclusivity.
Judaism- justice (Tzedek) is a concept that emphasizes righteousness, fairness, and moral integrity. Jews are called to pursue justice (Tikkun Olam) by repairing the world and advocating for the rights of the marginalized.
Principle of Correspondence- the idea of "As above, so below; as below, so above." This principle suggests that there is a correspondence between the macrocosm (the universe) and the microcosm (the individual), and that patterns observed in one level of existence are mirrored in another. In terms of justice, this principle relates to how the laws that govern justice in the universe are reflected in human interactions and societal structures.
Gratitude
Islam- gratitude (Shukr) is considered a virtue and an act of worship. Muslims are encouraged to express gratitude to Allah (God) for blessings received, as gratitude is believed to increase divine favor.
Ancient Egypt- gratitude (Seneb) was expressed through prayers and offerings to the gods in temples and sanctuaries, acknowledging divine favor and blessings bestowed upon people and communities.
Positive Psychology- gratitude (Gratitude Journaling) is a practice that enhances well-being and mental health. Keeping a gratitude journal and regularly expressing gratitude can lead to increased happiness and life satisfaction.
Stoicism- gratitude (Eucharistia) is considered a virtue that leads to inner peace and contentment. Stoic philosophers discussed the importance of focusing on what a person has rather than what they lack.
Hinduism- gratitude (Kritajna) is expressed through the practice of thanksgiving rituals such as Puja, where devotees give prayers, offerings, and gratitude to the deities for blessings received.
Unity
Indigenous cultures (Sami People, Yanomami, Kayapo, Lakota, Dakota) - unity is a value represented through ceremonial circles (unity circles) used for storytelling, healing, and decision-making. The circle symbolizes equality, inclusivity, and the interconnectedness of all people.
Taoism- unity (Dao) represents the underlying principle of oneness and harmony in the universe. Taoists seek to align themselves with the natural flow of the Dao and have unity with all things.
Christianity- unity (Body of Christ) symbolizes the interconnectedness of believers as part of a spiritual being with Christ as the head. Christians are called to have unity in faith, love, and purpose.
Ancient Greece- unity (Koinonia) was valued in the city-state (Polis), where citizens worked together for the common good. The concept of Koinonia emphasized civic involvement and solidarity among members of society.
Quantum Field Theory- unity is found in the universe through the fields that interact with particles, giving rise to the forces and interactions we observe in nature. This unity highlights the interconnectedness of all particles and fields, forming the basis of the cosmic web of reality.
Humility
Obeah (Caribbean) - humility is emphasized through how believers' approach spiritual forces through showing humility and respect. Humility is seen as essential for maintaining a balanced relationship with the spiritual realm.
Judaism- humility (Anavah) is considered a foundational virtue that helps strengthen reverence for God. Jewish teachings emphasize the importance of humility in recognizing one's place in the divine order and showing compassion for all beings.
Stoicism- humility (Tapinosis) is considered a cardinal virtue that brings inner tranquility and resilience. Stoic philosophers emphasized the practice of humility as a way to accept the vicissitudes of life with peace and to develop a sense of inner peace.
Sufism- humility (Tawadhu) is considered a central virtue on the path to spiritual enlightenment. Sufi practitioners show humility by surrendering the ego, recognizing the divine sovereignty, and acknowledging their dependence on God.
Ancient Egyptian belief, humility (Sema) was exemplified by the goddess Ma'at, who personified truth, balance, and order. Followers of Ma'at sought to live in harmony with the principles of truth and righteousness, embodying humility in their actions and relationships.
Service
Vedic Astrology (Jyotish)- the concept of "karma" (action) is central, where the importance of selfless service (seva) is as way of mitigating negative karma and promoting spiritual growth and evolution.
Christianity- Service is emphasized in Christianity through teachings such as "love your neighbor as yourself" (Mark 12:31) and the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), which illustrate the importance of selfless acts of kindness and compassion towards others.
Yoga- the concept of "seva" (selfless service) is emphasized, encouraging practitioners to use their skills and resources for the benefit of others. Seva is seen as a way of deepening a person's spiritual practice and offers a sense of interconnectedness and unity with all beings.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)- often incorporates the practice of "behavioral activation," which involves engaging in activities and acts of service as a way of improving mood and combating depression. Service can provide a sense of purpose, fulfillment, and connection with others.
Utilitarianism- service is valued as a means of maximizing overall happiness and reducing suffering. Utilitarians argue that acts of service should be directed towards achieving the greatest good for all people.
Mindfulness
Existential Philosophy-mindfulness reflects themes of authenticity, freedom, and meaning in life. Mindfulness, in the existential context, involves confronting the reality of existence with full acceptance, embracing both the joys and challenges of being human.
Islam- mindfulness is displayed through the practice of dhikr, which involves repeating the names of Allah or sacred phrases in remembrance and reverence. Dhikr helps bring believers into a state of presence and connection with the divine.
Neuroscience- mindfulness meditation can lead to changes in brain structure and function, including increased activity in regions associated with attention, emotion regulation, and empathy.
Taoism- mindfulness practices such as qigong and tai chi, which involve slow, deliberate movements, breath awareness, and focused attention on the flow of energy (qi) within the body. These practices promote harmony, balance, and vitality.
Buddhism- mindfulness meditation (sati) is a main part of Buddhist practice. Practitioners develop mindfulness by focusing their attention on the present moment, often through breath awareness or body scan meditation, to give insight into the nature of reality and relieve suffering.
Respect
Shamanism- respect for spirit, ancestors, and other forces is paramount. Shamans show reverence through rituals, ceremonies, and offerings to honor and communicate with the spirit world, maintaining balance and reciprocity in their relationships with the unseen realms.
Judaism- respect for God and the commandments is central in Judaism. Jews show respect through following religious practices, rituals, and ethical guidelines of the Torah, honoring the covenant between God and the Jewish people.
Law of Vibration- respect as a value is found in the Hermetic principle of vibration, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of all things through vibrational energy. Respect is shown by acknowledging the energy and consciousness present in all forms of life of the universe and how everything matters.
Chinese Astrology- respect for ancestral wisdom and cultural traditions is an important aspect of life. Practitioners honor the teachings of ancient sages and astrological principles passed down through generations, viewing them with respect and appreciation.
Nahua Religion (Aztec Cosmovision)- The respect of the divine being (Quetzalcoatl) in Nahua spirituality is the center of their beliefs. It also is shown in the inherent respect for knowledge, tradition, and the interconnectedness of all life.
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