FORGIVE, AND SET YOURSELF FREE

By DR CHANDRAKANT SHAH

Back in 2000, I had published an article in the Toronto Star exposing systemic discrimination in the hiring practices of faculty members at the University of Toronto.

While the cause I was standing up for received widespread attention and media coverage, there were things to be sorted out on the personal front. I felt that it was only right to go and reconcile with the President, who was bound to be unhappy with the massive amount of negative publicity that UofT received. I sent him a letter to clarify my intentions. The following is  part of the letter I sent him on January 11, 2000:

Dear President,

On reflection on the events of January 10, i.e., publishing an article in Bulletin on Diversity, my interview in the Toronto Star and several media inquiries on the issue, I thought I should write to you. I want you to know that my sole intention in publishing and publicizing my research findings was to sensitize all of us and create a healthy debate around the issue of minority hiring. I did not mean any harm or disrepute to our great institution and your and other individuals’ leadership in tackling this issue or singling out any department or faculty. I also have no personal gains to be made as I retire in 18 months. I am of Jain faith, and the following prayer/verse indicates my true feelings towards you and others who will be receiving a copy of this letter:

‘I grant forgiveness to all living beings.

And may all living beings grant me forgiveness.

No one is an enemy to me, and

I am enemy to none.

My friendship is with all living beings.

Whatever wrong I have done by

My thoughts, words or deeds,

I ask forgiveness and absolution.’

The administration realized that I was not their adversary. We worked together on changing the hiring policy resulting in equity.

Forgiveness is a profound and multifaceted concept that spans across various religious traditions, each offering its unique perspective on the practice and its benefits.

Jainism: Forgiveness is deeply intertwined with the Jain principle of ahimsa, or non-violence. This ethical guideline extends to thoughts, speech, and actions. Forgiveness is seen as a way to avoid causing harm to others and oneself. A ritual observed during the Jain festival of Paryushana is a comprehensive practice that includes: self-reflection, confession, seeking and granting forgiveness and resolution for self-improvement. Jains incorporate forgiveness into daily prayers and rituals.

Hinduism: Significant emphasis is placed on forgiveness as a virtue. The concept of forgiveness is deeply interwoven with the principles of Dharma (moral duty) and Karma (the law of cause and effect). Hindu scriptures, such as the Bhagavad Gita, discuss forgiveness as a form of self-discipline and spiritual growth.

Buddhism: Forgiveness is closely related to the practice of compassion and the alleviation of suffering. The Buddhist concept of ‘Metta Bhavana’ (loving-kindness meditation) involves cultivating feelings of love and forgiveness towards oneself and others. Buddhist teachings also emphasize the importance of letting go of grudges and cultivating a forgiving attitude.

Christianity: Forgiveness is a cornerstone of Christian faith. The teachings of Jesus Christ emphasize the importance of forgiveness in both personal and communal contexts. The sacrament of Reconciliation or Confession is a formal practice within the Catholic church where individuals confess their sins to a priest and seek absolution. This is not only a religious obligation but also a pathway to personal redemption and spiritual renewal.

Islam: Forgiveness is deeply embedded in the teachings of the Quran and Hadith. The concept of ‘Tawbah’ (repentance) involves seeking forgiveness from Allah for sins committed and making a sincere effort to change one’s behaviour. Muslims are also encouraged to practise forgiveness towards others.

Judaism: Forgiveness is an essential aspect of the High Holy Days, particularly during Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. Yom Kippur is a time for Jews to reflect on their actions over the past year, seek forgiveness from God, and make amends with others. The practice of ‘Teshuvah’ (repentance) involves a process of self-examination, regret for past actions, and a commitment to change. This process is not just about seeking forgiveness from God but also involves making reparations to those one has wronged.

Forgiveness includes:

• Asking for forgiveness for wrongful action towards others.

• Forgiving others for their wrongful actions.

• Forgiving friends and relatives their follies and accepting them as they are.

• Forgiving ourselves for acts of omission or commission.

Forgiveness offers significant personal benefits, impacting both emotional and psychological well-being. Forgiving others can lead to a profound sense of emotional relief and freedom from the burden of anger and resentment. Holding onto grudges often perpetuates negative feelings, which can affect one’s overall mood and happiness. By choosing to forgive, individuals can experience a release of emotional tension and cultivate a more positive outlook on life. Engaging in the practice of forgiveness can enhance self-esteem and self-worth. Forgiving others requires a level of personal strength and integrity, which can contribute to a positive self-image.

Forgiveness promotes inner peace by reducing internal conflicts and fostering a sense of harmony. When individuals let go of past grievances, they can achieve a greater sense of tranquility and emotional stability. This inner peace contributes to overall mental health and well-being.

The health benefits of forgiveness are supported by scientific research: lower blood pressure, reduced risk of heart disease, and enhanced immune function and overall health. Forgiveness also has significant social benefits, impacting relationships and community dynamics such as improved relationships, enhanced communication, strengthened social support and social harmony.

Forgiveness is a powerful and transformative practice with profound personal, health, and social benefits. Different religious traditions offer unique perspectives on forgiveness, emphasizing its importance in spiritual growth, personal healing, and relational harmony. By embracing forgiveness, individuals and communities can experience profound positive changes, contributing to overall well-being.