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Hello, everyone! I am so thrilled to be here today to introduce a truly remarkable and thought-provoking conversation. We are gathering six of the most influential spiritual and global leaders from across history to discuss one of the most pressing questions of our time: how can religion be a force for unity, goodness, and peace? It is my honor to welcome Reverend Sun Myung Moon, a visionary of interfaith cooperation and global peace; Mahatma Gandhi, the father of non-violence and truth; Pope John Paul II, a champion of interfaith dialogue and religious harmony; Yasser Arafat, who tirelessly sought peace and reconciliation in the Middle East; Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel, a profound voice for spiritual values and interfaith understanding; and His Holiness the Dalai Lama, a beacon of compassion, kindness, and wisdom.
Together, they’ll explore the vital role that religion plays in healing divisions, overcoming hatred, and leading humanity toward a brighter, more peaceful future. Whether it’s discussing the power of non-violence, the importance of reconciliation between different faiths, or the way love and compassion can transform societies, these leaders bring unique insights and lived experiences that can inspire us all.
This conversation goes beyond theory and dives into the real, tangible impact that faith can have in the world today. These leaders have lived through times of war, conflict, and division, yet each of them holds a vision for a world united by shared values and common humanity. Their wisdom can guide us toward a future where religion is not a source of conflict, but a bridge to peace. So, let’s settle in, open our hearts, and get ready for a conversation that could change the way we see ourselves, our faith, and each other.

The Role of Religion in Ending Conflict
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: Gandhi, you and I share the belief that religion holds an immense power to transform society. When I look at the world today, I see so many conflicts rooted in religious misunderstandings. Yet, I believe religion can also be the solution to these conflicts. What are your thoughts on the role of religion in resolving wars and ending violence?
Mahatma Gandhi: Religion, at its core, is about truth and non-violence, but so often we see it being misused to justify violence. I dedicated my life to the principle of "ahimsa"—non-violence—as the highest expression of faith. When religion is centered on love and truth, it becomes a force for peace, but when it is twisted by selfish motives, it leads to conflict.
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: Indeed, the misuse of religion has led to much suffering. When I saw the invasion of Kuwait and the potential for a religious war between Christians and Muslims, I immediately felt compelled to act. I organized interfaith meetings, knowing that if religious leaders could unite, they could prevent further bloodshed. But many still view religion as a tool for power and division, rather than peace.
Mahatma Gandhi: That is why the transformation must begin within each individual. Religion must first change the heart before it can change society. The enemy is not another person; it is the hatred and ego within us. True religion, as you know, begins with self-purification. Only when individuals purify themselves of anger, greed, and violence can religions unite to bring peace to the world.
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: That resonates deeply with me. I have always taught that peace must start with the individual. But what do you think is the first step for religious leaders today? How can they shift the narrative and make religion a source of unity, not conflict?
Mahatma Gandhi: Religious leaders must live the values they preach. Too often, there is a gap between what is taught and what is practiced. Leaders must set the example by showing humility, tolerance, and love. They must come together, not to debate their differences, but to find common ground. Every religion teaches the importance of compassion. If we focus on that shared teaching, we can bridge the divides.
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: That is why I spent so many years working on interfaith dialogue. I organized conferences where leaders of different faiths could come together, not to argue theology, but to discuss how we can work together for peace. I also initiated projects like World Scripture, which showed that over 70 percent of religious teachings are the same across faiths. It’s tragic that despite this, religious conflicts persist.
Mahatma Gandhi: Yes, it is a tragedy. But it also means that there is hope. The fact that religions share so much common ground shows that the potential for peace is already within us. We just need to awaken that potential. And that begins with leaders like you and me, dedicating our lives to showing the world that religion is not a weapon, but a healing force.
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: I fully agree. Religion’s true purpose is to guide humanity back to goodness, to live in harmony as brothers and sisters. When we can do this, we will see the end of wars. It has been my lifelong dream to see the day when religions unite, and together we create a world of peace. Perhaps, Gandhi, our work is not finished. There is still much more to do.
Mahatma Gandhi: Indeed, Reverend Moon. As long as there is division, there is work to be done. But through love, patience, and unwavering faith, we can lead humanity toward a brighter, more peaceful future.
Interfaith Dialogue for Global Peace
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: Pope John Paul II, you and I have both dedicated much of our lives to the cause of interfaith dialogue. As we look around the world today, we still see religious tensions escalating into conflicts. Why do you think it is so difficult for leaders of different faiths to come together, despite sharing a common belief in love, compassion, and peace?
Pope John Paul II: Reverend Moon, I believe the difficulty lies in fear—fear of losing one’s identity, of compromising deeply held beliefs, and of misunderstanding the “other.” People are often more focused on what separates them than on what unites them. Yet, I have always believed that dialogue is essential. It is through understanding that we overcome fear. This was one of my key messages when I visited various religious leaders around the world.
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: That is exactly why I felt compelled to bring together Christian, Muslim, and Jewish leaders. When I visited Jerusalem, I prayed at the Mount of Olives and placed three nails into a tree—one for each of these faiths—symbolizing my hope that one day, they would unite. It’s astonishing to me that while more than 70 percent of their teachings are the same, the divisions persist. How do we bring leaders to the table to focus on these commonalities rather than their differences?
Pope John Paul II: It begins with humility. Leaders of faith must approach one another with an open heart, understanding that no single tradition holds all the answers. We must remember that each religion is a path toward the same truth, a shared quest for understanding the divine. I recall when I gathered with Muslim and Jewish leaders in Assisi to pray for peace. It wasn’t about theological debates, but about standing together in prayer, united by our common humanity and our desire for peace.
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: That is the essence of interfaith work—acknowledging our shared humanity and shared destiny. I have always felt that religious wars are far more dangerous than political wars because they touch the very soul of people. This is why I was so urgent in my efforts to prevent conflicts between Christianity and Islam during the Gulf War. I feared that the battle would not just be seen as one of nations but of faiths. How do we prevent religion from being weaponized in such conflicts?
Pope John Paul II: Religious leaders must speak out firmly against any attempt to use faith as a justification for violence. Faith is not a tool for division, but for reconciliation. When I traveled to the Holy Land, I urged both Christians and Muslims to seek peace, not through confrontation, but through dialogue and mutual respect. The same message must be shared in every conflict zone where religion is being misused. Leaders must remind their followers that true faith promotes love and understanding, not hatred.
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: That is why I organized peace marches and interfaith ceremonies, such as the one in Jerusalem where we symbolically removed the crown of thorns from Jesus and replaced it with a crown of peace. It was a way of bringing together Christians, Muslims, and Jews to share a moment of unity. But what do you think is the role of the laity in interfaith efforts? Shouldn’t ordinary people also play a part in bridging these divides?
Pope John Paul II: Absolutely. Interfaith dialogue is not just the work of religious leaders but of all believers. When people of different faiths work, live, and pray side by side, they break down barriers. I have always encouraged grassroots movements that promote interfaith cooperation, whether it’s in schools, neighborhoods, or workplaces. The faithful must be ambassadors of peace in their daily lives. As you know, Reverend Moon, true unity comes from both the top and the bottom.
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: Yes, when the people move, nations follow. In my travels, I have seen ordinary believers who yearn for peace, who are willing to work with those of different faiths to achieve it. They often lead the way, reminding us that love and peace are not just lofty ideals but practical realities that can be achieved through cooperation. We need to empower these voices.
Pope John Paul II: I agree. And we, as leaders, must continue to provide the vision and the example. When we come together in dialogue, we show that unity is possible. We must be tireless in this pursuit because, as you know, the road to peace is long and often difficult. But as long as we keep walking that road together, there is always hope.
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: Indeed, Pope John Paul II. It is through such dialogue that we can plant the seeds of peace and unity. My hope is that one day, all religions will join hands, and together, we will build the world of peace that we both envision—a world where faiths no longer divide but unite us.
Reconciliation Between Islam, Christianity, and Judaism
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: Arafat, when I look at the longstanding conflict between Israel and Palestine, I see more than just a political struggle. I see a deep divide rooted in religious misunderstandings between Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. But I have always believed that peace can only come if these three Abrahamic faiths find a way to reconcile. What do you think is the path to achieving such reconciliation?
Yasser Arafat: Reverend Moon, you are right. At the heart of this conflict is more than land or politics—it’s about identity, history, and faith. For the Palestinian people, the struggle for an independent state is not just political but spiritual, tied to our beliefs, our connection to the land, and our identity as Muslims. But I also understand that reconciliation is necessary if we are to achieve lasting peace. It requires both sides—Jewish and Muslim—to recognize each other’s rights and humanity.
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: I have always admired your willingness to engage in dialogue, despite the risks and obstacles. I remember visiting Jerusalem in 1965, where I prayed for the day when Judaism, Christianity, and Islam would become one family. I placed nails in a tree on the Mount of Olives—one for each faith—as a symbol of unity. But many see these religions as fundamentally incompatible. How do we overcome this perception?
Yasser Arafat: It starts with acknowledging the common ground. All three religions believe in one God, and they all teach about peace, justice, and compassion. The problem is not the faiths themselves, but how they have been used over centuries to justify division. Leaders on all sides need to come together and emphasize these shared values. We need to stop using religion as a weapon and start using it as a tool for healing.
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: I agree completely. When I organized peace conferences, I invited leaders from all three faiths, focusing on what unites us. As you said, the teachings of Islam, Christianity, and Judaism are remarkably similar in their calls for peace and justice. But political leaders often manipulate these faiths for their own ends. How can we prevent religion from being used in this way, especially when so much of the conflict is tied to political power?
Yasser Arafat: It’s a difficult challenge because politics and religion are deeply intertwined here. But leaders must have the courage to separate the two. Religious leaders, in particular, must rise above political agendas and focus on the spiritual wellbeing of their people. This is why I have always been open to dialogue with Christian and Jewish leaders—because I believe that faith can play a role in building peace, not just conflict.
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: It’s true. I have seen how religious leaders, when they come together with sincerity, can change the course of a conflict. When I met with leaders in Jerusalem, I saw a deep yearning for peace on all sides, even if the political realities made it seem impossible. I believe that by focusing on forgiveness and mutual respect, we can heal the wounds of history. But forgiveness is not easy, especially when the pain is so deep. How do we encourage both sides to forgive?
Yasser Arafat: Forgiveness is indeed difficult, especially when people have lost so much. But it’s the only way forward. We cannot change the past, but we can shape the future. For the Palestinian people, we have suffered greatly, and many feel anger and frustration. But we must also look to the future and ask ourselves—what kind of world do we want for our children? Do we want them to grow up in hatred, or do we want them to live in peace?
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: Exactly. I have always believed that we must look to the future generations. That is why I work to bring young people of different faiths together. If they can grow up seeing each other as brothers and sisters, rather than enemies, then we can break the cycle of hatred. But it takes leadership from people like you to set the example. You’ve worked tirelessly for the cause of Palestinian independence, but you’ve also engaged in dialogue with Israeli leaders. How have you balanced these two roles—fighting for your people while also working for peace?
Yasser Arafat: It has not been easy. There are many who see any dialogue with Israel as betrayal, but I have always believed that peace is possible, even if it requires difficult compromises. My responsibility is to my people, but I also have a responsibility to future generations. We must fight for our rights, but we must also be willing to make peace. This is why I have been open to negotiations and why I continue to support a two-state solution, despite the challenges.
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: Your willingness to engage in dialogue, even in the face of criticism, is admirable. I believe that peace in the Middle East is possible, but it requires people like you who are willing to take risks for the sake of a greater vision. As I continue my work, I will keep praying for the day when Judaism, Christianity, and Islam can truly reconcile and build a world of peace together.
Yasser Arafat: Thank you, Reverend Moon. Your prayers and your efforts for peace in the Middle East are appreciated. We need more leaders like you who see beyond the divisions and focus on our shared humanity. Together, we can keep working toward the peace that our people so desperately need.
The Cross, Religion, and Unity of Abrahamic Faiths
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: Rabbi Heschel, one of the biggest challenges in reconciling Judaism, Christianity, and Islam is the symbol of the cross. In my efforts to promote unity between the Abrahamic faiths, I have suggested that we de-emphasize the cross to focus on what unites us. You, as a Jewish philosopher who has worked extensively on interfaith dialogue, have always emphasized common spiritual values. How do you think we can overcome the symbolic barriers that divide us?
Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel: Reverend Moon, the cross is indeed a powerful and complicated symbol. For Christians, it represents salvation and sacrifice, but for Jews, it can evoke painful memories of persecution. It is important to approach symbols with sensitivity, understanding the deep meanings they carry for different communities. The key is to focus on the essence of faith—our shared longing for God, for justice, and for peace—rather than the symbols that have divided us.
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: That’s why I led a ceremony to take down the cross in Israel. It wasn’t to disrespect the Christian faith but to remove the barriers that keep Judaism, Christianity, and Islam apart. I wanted to move beyond the crucifixion and emphasize Jesus as the King of Peace, who unites rather than divides. How do you see this approach?
Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel: I understand your intention, and I believe it is noble. Jesus is a figure that both unites and divides the Abrahamic faiths. For Jews, he is a Jewish teacher, but not the Messiah. For Christians, he is the Savior. And for Muslims, he is a prophet. While these perspectives differ, there is still a shared reverence for his teachings of love and compassion. By focusing on these teachings, we can find common ground. The challenge is to respect each tradition’s understanding without forcing a singular interpretation.
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: Exactly. In my work compiling World Scripture, I found that the core teachings of Christianity, Judaism, and Islam are more than 70 percent the same. The remaining differences are often historical or symbolic, but the core values—love, peace, and devotion to God—are shared across all three faiths. How can we encourage leaders and believers to focus on this shared foundation rather than on the symbols and doctrines that divide?
Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel: It requires a shift in focus. Religious leaders must emphasize the universal teachings of compassion, justice, and the sanctity of life. In my work, I have always spoken of "radical amazement"—the wonder of existence and our shared connection to the divine. If we can rekindle that sense of wonder and awe, it will naturally draw people together. The problem is that too often, religious discourse becomes about power, identity, and exclusion. We must guide it back to its true purpose—healing the soul and bringing humanity closer to God.
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: I deeply appreciate that perspective. I have always believed that religion’s role is to guide people toward goodness and unity, not division. That’s why I worked with leaders of Islam, Judaism, and Christianity to organize peace marches and joint prayers. One of our most significant events was in Jerusalem, where Christian, Jewish, and Muslim leaders walked together to symbolize unity. Do you think such symbolic gestures have a lasting impact, or are they merely temporary moments of hope?
Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel: Symbolic actions are important because they inspire hope and remind us of what is possible. But for them to have lasting impact, they must be followed by practical steps toward reconciliation. It’s not enough to walk together for a day—we must create ongoing opportunities for dialogue, cooperation, and shared service. When religious communities work together on issues like poverty, hunger, and injustice, they see each other not as rivals, but as partners in the pursuit of God’s will.
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: I agree wholeheartedly. That’s why I’ve always emphasized the need for action. After our interfaith marches, we continued working on joint projects to build schools, feed the hungry, and support peace efforts in conflict zones. I believe that when people of faith serve together, they experience the true meaning of religion—love in action. How do you see the role of service in bringing the Abrahamic faiths closer together?
Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel: Service is essential. The prophets of Israel, including Jesus and Muhammad in their own ways, spoke of the need to care for the widow, the orphan, and the stranger. This is the heart of religion—service to others and devotion to God. When we serve together, we fulfill the highest commandments of our faiths. It is in these moments of shared service that we see the humanity in one another, and the divisions that seem so large begin to fade.
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: Yes, service allows us to transcend our differences and focus on our common purpose. My dream is for a world where all religions serve together to create a global family under God. It may seem like an impossible dream, but I believe that with faith, love, and persistent effort, it is possible. Do you think we will see a day when Judaism, Christianity, and Islam truly unite in peace?
Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel: I believe that day is possible, but it requires constant work and an open heart. It may not happen in our lifetime, but every step we take toward unity brings us closer to that vision. As religious leaders, we must continue to plant the seeds of peace, even if we do not live to see them grow. Our work is to create the conditions for future generations to inherit a world where faiths are not divided by symbols, but united in their love for God and for one another.
The Future of Religion in Shaping Human Goodness
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: Your Holiness, you and I have both dedicated our lives to helping people discover the goodness within themselves through religion. In today's world, however, many have become disillusioned with faith, seeing it as a source of division rather than a force for good. How do you see the future of religion in guiding humanity toward goodness?
Dalai Lama: Reverend Moon, I share your concerns. In my teachings, I emphasize that religion must always serve humanity, not divide it. At its core, every religion seeks to cultivate compassion, love, and kindness. But as you said, people sometimes misuse religion for selfish or political purposes. The future of religion, I believe, lies in returning to these core values. Only by focusing on what brings us together—our shared desire for happiness and peace—can religion fulfill its role in shaping human goodness.
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: That resonates deeply with me. I have always believed that religion’s role is to help people transcend their lower desires and connect to a higher purpose, which is ultimately to love and serve others. But in practice, we often see the opposite. People use religion to justify conflict, whether it’s between nations, ethnic groups, or even within families. How do you think we can guide people back to the true spirit of religion?
Dalai Lama: It begins with education. People must be taught the true essence of their faiths, not just the rituals and dogma. In Buddhism, we speak of cultivating a warm heart, which is the foundation of all spiritual practice. Similarly, in Christianity, there is the teaching of “love thy neighbor,” and in Islam, there is “compassion for all.” These teachings are universal, and they are the foundation of human goodness. Religious leaders must emphasize these principles over rituals and symbols.
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: I agree. That’s why I have worked to bring leaders of different faiths together, not to argue over theology, but to focus on how we can cooperate in promoting peace and goodness. I believe that when people of different faiths work together in service, they naturally grow closer. We see that despite our differences, we all desire the same things—love, peace, and a better world for future generations. But how do we inspire the younger generation to embrace this vision, especially when many have turned away from organized religion?
Dalai Lama: Young people are looking for authenticity. They want to see leaders who live the values they preach. Too often, religious institutions focus on maintaining power and traditions rather than addressing the real needs of people, especially the youth. We must show them that religion is not about control, but about cultivating kindness, compassion, and wisdom. This is something they can apply in their daily lives, whether they consider themselves religious or not.
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: That’s an important point. Many young people today seek spiritual fulfillment outside of traditional religious structures. They are looking for meaning in life, but often they don’t know where to find it. I have always emphasized that peace and goodness begin within the individual. If we can help people discover inner peace and purpose, whether through religious teachings or other means, we can guide them toward living lives of goodness. How do you suggest we connect with people who have become disillusioned with traditional religion?
Dalai Lama: We must meet people where they are, without judgment. Some may be disillusioned with religion because they see it as rigid or outdated. But the principles of love, compassion, and kindness are timeless, and they resonate with everyone, religious or not. We can offer these teachings in a way that speaks to modern challenges, whether it's addressing mental health, the environment, or social justice. When people see that spirituality can help them live happier, more meaningful lives, they will naturally be drawn to it.
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: Yes, spirituality must be practical. It must address the needs of people today. This is why I have invested in projects that provide education, relief, and community-building across the world. When we serve others, we show them the power of love and goodness in action. Do you think that service is the key to reconnecting people with their spiritual nature?
Dalai Lama: Absolutely. Service is a direct expression of compassion, and it brings out the best in people. When we serve others, we forget about our own problems and connect to something greater than ourselves. This is true spirituality—seeing the world through the eyes of compassion and taking action to alleviate the suffering of others. Service also helps people develop gratitude, which is essential for a peaceful and happy life.
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: I believe that, too. If more people engaged in service to others, we would see a transformation in society. Instead of focusing on our differences, we would see our common humanity. My hope is that, as religious leaders, we can inspire more people to live for the sake of others, to embody goodness in their daily lives. The future of religion, in my view, depends on how well we can inspire this spirit of service and love. What do you see as the most important role for religious leaders in this future?
Dalai Lama: Our role is to be examples of what we teach. We must live the values of kindness, compassion, and humility. When people see religious leaders embody these qualities, they will trust that religion has something valuable to offer. We must also work together, across religious boundaries, to address the great challenges of our time—poverty, violence, environmental destruction. If we can show the world that religion is a force for good, for unity, and for peace, then it will continue to have a meaningful place in shaping the future.
Reverend Sun Myung Moon: I fully agree. The future of religion is not about maintaining old structures but about how well we can inspire people to live lives of goodness. I have always believed that when we live for the sake of others, we reflect the true heart of God. Together, through our efforts, I believe we can guide humanity toward a future where love, peace, and compassion are the guiding principles of our lives.
Short Bios:
Reverend Sun Myung Moon was a religious leader and founder of the Unification Movement, known for his efforts in promoting interfaith dialogue and global peace. He believed that religion should be a unifying force and worked tirelessly to bring together leaders from different faiths, including Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, to address global conflicts and promote reconciliation. His initiatives, like the World Scripture project, focused on the shared values of major religions to foster unity.
Mahatma Gandhi was a leader in India’s struggle for independence from British rule, advocating for non-violence (ahimsa) and truth (satyagraha) as the foundation for social and political change. His philosophy of peaceful resistance became a global model for movements that sought justice and equality, including the American Civil Rights Movement. Gandhi’s commitment to harmony between religions, particularly between Hindus and Muslims, was central to his vision of a peaceful, unified India.
Pope John Paul II was one of the most influential figures of the 20th century, serving as the head of the Catholic Church from 1978 to 2005. He was a tireless advocate for interfaith dialogue, particularly between Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, and worked to heal religious divisions while promoting human rights, peace, and forgiveness. His visits to conflict zones and his efforts to bridge gaps between religious communities left a lasting legacy of unity and compassion.
Yasser Arafat was the leader of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and a key figure in the struggle for Palestinian statehood. Despite his association with conflict in the Middle East, Arafat played an important role in peace negotiations, including the Oslo Accords, which aimed to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. His leadership was characterized by both resistance and a willingness to engage in diplomacy for the sake of peace in the region.
Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel was a prominent Jewish philosopher and theologian who dedicated his life to bridging religious divides and promoting social justice. He was an outspoken advocate for civil rights in America, marching alongside Martin Luther King Jr., and was a leading voice in interfaith dialogue, particularly between Judaism and Christianity. Heschel’s work emphasized the shared spiritual values of compassion, justice, and respect for humanity across all religions.
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