In an era of heightening violence here in Syracuse with murders, rapes, armed robberies, police brutality, and psychiatric brutality at alarmingly high rates Buddhists here have been looking towards His Holiness the Dalai Lama to help them cope with the epidemic of violence. It is hoped among Syracuse Buddhists that the consistently nonviolent teachings of the Dalai Lama will help to make this a more peaceful community.
Phayul.com has recently reported "Violence in the name of moral principle is very sad, the Dalai Lama." In regard to the increased episodes of violence in dealing with Islam the Dalai Lama has said “If you criticize Islam due to a few mischievous Muslims, then you have to criticise all world religions, all religions - including his own - have faithful who carry the seeds of destructive emotions within them.”
The Dalai Lama feels that religions can foster peace in our troubled world. He has gone on to comment "Violence in the name of moral principle is very sad." He has compared violence in the name of moral principle to "medicine that is supposed to cure you but only makes you sicker."
His Holiness the Dalai Lama sees the bloodshed of the 20th century as having failed to resolve human problems and he has stressed the need to promote dialogue as the only viable means to resolve conflict. The Dalai Lama has gone on to say "We will not achieve understanding through prayers to God or Buddha. We have to make an effort to talk to each other."
And while striving to build a better world the Dalai Lama has expressed that belief that it is individuals, not governments, which have the power to bring more honesty into the world.
