COMPASSION. NOT HATE

4 min readApr 26, 2024

Hate is perhaps one of the most hard-wired emotions in human beings. But besides simply being an emotion, it can also be a syndrome, a form of generalized anger, a normative judgment, a motive to devalue others, or an emotional attitude. It manifests in various forms, such as hate speech, discrimination, prejudice, and acts of violence fueled by intolerance. Hate not only divides communities but also breeds fear, distrust, and injustice.

In today’s interconnected world, hate has found new ways to spread and amplify its harmful influence. For example, online hate which is increasingly one of the most discussed and recognised forms of hate that we see, or may even experience, regularly. This is because social media platforms, while enabling global connectivity, have also become breeding grounds for hate speech and online harassment. It can be anywhere from a hate comment on someone’s post to threatening messages that can lead to physical harm of the person(s) involved. The anonymity provided by the digital realm only emboldens individuals to express and spread hate and hateful ideologies.

The consequences of hate, regardless of where or how it is expressed, can be far-reaching. Hate as an emotion has the potential to fragment societies, fuel conflicts, and undermine the principles of equality, respect, and human rights. It also often targets individuals based on their race, religion, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or other identities, inflicting pain, marginalization, and systemic oppression.

However, throughout history, countless ancient spiritual texts and philosophical teachings have recognised compassion as a guiding principle overcoming hate and malice towards people or groups of people in our hearts. In fact, at the core of all religions is the belief that our true purpose as human beings on Earth is to demonstrate compassion in thought and action toward all living beings.

Too often we reserve compassion for members of our own groups only. But there is a common core of humanity underlying our wonderful diversity. The common message of religious revelations is one that celebrates our common humanity and calls for action and service that promotes love, compassion, and peace in the world.

Insightful Quotes on Compassion

Modern Science

“Our task must be to free ourselves from this prison [of illusion] by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature in its beauty.”

― Albert Einstein, physicist

Baha’i

“It is not only their fellow human beings that the beloved God must treat with mercy and compassion, rather must they show forth the utmost loving-kindness to every living creature.”

— ‘Abdu’l-Baha, Baha’i leader

Judaism

“The Holy One then said: Because you showed such compassion in tending the flock of a mortal, as you live, you shall become shepherd of Israel, the flock that is Mine.”

— Sefer Ha-Aggadah, collection of Jewish writings

Hinduism

“Realize the truth of the scriptures; learn to be detached and to take joy in renunciation. Do not get angry or harm any living creature, but be compassionate and gentle; show good will to all.”

— The Bhagavad Gita (16:1–2), Hindu text

Buddhism

“All major religious traditions carry basically the same message, that is love, compassion and forgiveness […] the important thing is they should be part of our daily lives.”

— The Dalai Lama, Tibetan Buddhist spiritual leader