Why So Many Religions

The modern world confronts us with a large number of varying backgrounds and diverse religious systems, making the very existence of so many different spiritual paths a potential stumbling block towards spiritual realization. We often encounter various faiths, such as Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Judaism, and Hinduism, each possessing traditions that are appealing to us. For those who seek enlightenment, it is a pressing question: Why, if God is one, are there so many conflicting conclusions and prescribed duties?

The key insight, as found in the ancient scriptures of India, is that the variety of desires and natures among human beings leads to many different theistic philosophies of life. Since every person has an ultimate object of worship, every person is inherently religious. Some systems focus on pious religious activities, while others focus on fame, sense gratification, or opulence. The Vedas, which are the oldest scriptures in existence, explain this phenomenon, noting that these systems can be thought of as different grades in an educational establishment. Even the highest teachers tailor their message based on the specific time period, since people at large may not be ready for the highest truths of spirituality.

This book investigates these various systems and reveals why, although valid in achieving their immediate goals, they often fall short. Systems driven by desires obtain only temporary fruits from material work, leading to subsequent unhappiness and lamentation, even within their success. The secret to gaining a perfect understanding of all religious principles is to study the king of all knowledge, raja-vidya.

The highest religious practice, known as dharma, defines the relationship between the subordinate worshiper and the worshipable Supreme Lord. The ultimate objective is to have a pleasurable relationship with the Supreme Lord in His original form. This path, devotional service or bhakti-yoga, is considered the topmost religious system because it aims to help us achieve the highest goal in life: developing a pure, unalloyed, devotional attachment to God.

By following this complete knowledge (purna), you can understand every religious truth ever expounded. Ultimately, the highest instruction is to abandon all varieties of religion and just surrender to Shri Krishna (God), who is the sum and substance of all religious systems. By doing so, one can immediately rise to the highest platform of knowledge and attain the Lord's abode, never returning to the cycle of birth and death. This book provides the philosophical foundation for this essential choice, inviting you to discern the truth and choose wisely.