How to Practice Religious Tolerance

In an era when faith and politics have become a blended whole, practicing religious tolerance has become essential to living an open-minded, non-judgmental life. The world is a diversity of belief and opinion, which can often challenge one's perception, and sense of self. Choosing to avoid rather than learn about other religions can create unhealthy breakdowns in open communication. Below are a few suggestions for practicing a religiously tolerant lifestyle.

Instructions

1. Concede that differences of opinion are natural part of human evolution as we continually adapt to environment and circumstances. Few people in the world will ever agree with you 100 percent, accepting and celebrating this difference is the key to religious tolerance.

2. Understand that some people practice a faith that follows one god (monotheism), more than one god (polytheism) or no god at all (atheism) and that all perspectives remain equally valid. Without concrete proof or evidence of your own stance, trying to tell someone his or her belief is wrong is a presumptuous waste of time. Accept that you cannot change only listen and debate people's opinions.

3. Take the time to learn about religions other than your own. Any child's world religions book can give you a basic grasp on the global faith outlook, but suggest further research. Pick a few faiths common in your community and learn a bit more about them, knowing that education is the key to tolerance.

4. Realize emphatically that referring to other faiths as wrong, misleading, or false is unhelpful and educating others on their tenants is helpful. Choosing to speak about other faiths in a tolerant and open-minded manner does not equate to agreement with the practices of that faith. Don't be afraid to voice an educated opinion.

5. Learn the meaning or story behind all the religious festivals noted on the average calendar. Sharing this knowledge on the corresponding day with co-workers, family and friends is a good way to both educate and spread tolerance in others. Most intolerance is due to a lack of knowledge or education.

6. Ask someone of another faith to explain his or her beliefs. As books and Internet sites can only go so far, asking a belief their thoughts and opinions brings another faith to a more personal level and allows the opportunity to ask questions.

7. Visit or attend a religious service of another faith. Observing the rituals of another religion helps you to understand and respect the reverence and belief of others. It also promotes tolerance and interfaith communication which always seems like a good idea.