Different people call on [God] by different names: some as…
“Different people call on [God] by different names: some as Allah, some as God, and others as Krishna, Siva, and Brahman. It is like the water in a lake. Some drink it at one place and call it 'jal', others at another place and call it 'pani', and still others at a third place and call it 'water'. The Hindus call it 'jal', the Christians 'water', and the Moslems 'pani'. But it is one and the same thing.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Divine reality is singular despite diverse names and forms, like water called differently across cultures.
In simple terms: God is one, called many names.
Recognize unity beyond labels.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- interfaith dialogue
- personal meditation
- theological study
- cultural education
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does recognizing a shared divine essence affect interfaith respect?
- Can language barriers shape spiritual understanding?
Different traditions may emphasize exclusive truth claims, challenging universalist view.