Unveiling the Essence of God in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam

God, a word etched in the annals of human civilization, transcends time and culture. In Jewish philosophy, God is an incomprehensible, unknowable Supreme Power deserving of supreme respect. The unutterable name, Yod-Hei-Vav-Hei (YHVH), reflects the reverence, with Jews avoiding its written form. The concept of God as a guiding Fatherly Figure, both loving and severe, extends into Christianity and Islam. The Holy Quran encapsulates this belief, emphasizing the straight path and divine judgment.

Children Of Israel, Remember The Favors I Have Bestowed Upon You, And Fulfill The Covenant That You Made With Me. I Shall Fulfill The Covenant I Made With You. Fear Me Alone.

The Quran, Chapter 2, Verse 40

Exploring Hindu Philosophies: Ishwar, Brahma, and Bhagwaan

Hinduism, a tapestry of diverse beliefs, introduces three words for God. “Ishwar,” akin to the God in Judeo-Christian-Islamic philosophy, manages existence. “Brahma,” the creator, transcends the mind’s grasp.

Yan Manasa Na Manute Yena Hur Mano Matam Tadeva Brahma Tvam Viddhi Nedam Yad Idam Upasate.

(What one cannot feel with the mind? But because of which the mind feels. Know that alone as Brahma, And not this, which people worship here!)

– Kenopanishad Hymn

The Sufi-inspired poem beautifully captures this notion.

Yeh Zameen Jab Na Thi Yeh Jahaan Jab Na Thaa Chaand Suraj Na They Aasman Jab Na Tha Raaz-E-Haq Bhi Kisi Per Ayaan Jab Na Tha Tab Na Tha Kuch Yahaan, Tha Magar Tu Hee Tu, Allah Hu.

(When there was no Earth, and when this universe did not exist, When there were no Moon nor Sun nor Sky, & when there was no obligation of any one towards anybody, When there was nobody. Even then there were You, only You, Oh Allah!)

– Sufi Hymn

Such deep are the similarities between these transcendental states of God in Hinduism and Islam that if you replace the word Brahma with Allaha in Upoanishads then they would sound like a Sufi hymn, and vis-a-versa.

“Bhagwaan,” the third concept, reveals a God who transcends, akin to achieving liberation. Hinduism’s profound contemplation influenced even the Islamic Sufi concept of Qutab, converging both Hinduism and Islam to the same goal.

Atheism: Questioning the Divine Narrative

Atheists, echoing voices from Karl Marx to modern physicists like Stephen Hawking, challenge traditional views. The paradox of a benevolent, all-powerful God amid earthly suffering fuels skepticism. Theistic responses promise justice in an afterlife, but atheists dismiss this as mere opium, diverting focus from the harsh realities of our existence.

Cārvāka: Materialistic Atheism in Ancient India

Cārvāka, or Lokāyata, an ancient school of materialists, rejected afterworld notions, sacred scriptures, and the immortality of the soul. Their philosophy advocated opportunism, urging self-interest. This echoes modern Western thought, challenging established beliefs, mirroring India’s intellectual revolution 2500 years ago.

Shraman Philosophy: A Path to Self-Realization

Shraman philosophy rejects theism and atheism, emphasizing self-reliance. Humans, driven by desires, create their destiny, breaking free from the cycle of birth and death. Dividing the soul into Out-Bound, In-Bound, and Supreme Soul, Shraman thought offers liberation through self-awareness and detachment.

Vardhman Mahavira and Gautama Buddha: Champions of Shraman Tradition

Vardhman Mahavira and Gautama Buddha, products of the Shraman tradition, shaped Indian spirituality. The Jina, Mahavira, conquered desires, while Buddha’s path echoed similar philosophies. Their teachings, rooted in Bihar, India, influenced the region’s intellectual and spiritual development.

Conclusion: Navigating the Complex Weave of Divinity

God, a multifaceted concept, weaves through civilizations, offering diverse perspectives. From Judaism’s unutterable reverence to Hinduism’s intricate deities and Shraman philosophy’s self-realization, humanity’s quest for understanding transcends boundaries. As we navigate this tapestry, embracing diverse philosophies, we find a richer, more nuanced comprehension of the divine.

For a more detailed discussion on this subject, please refer to my book Guide to Godhood – Roadmap to Moksha

Love

Seeker Amit