Rupertus MeldeniusIn essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; in all things, charity.
About This Quote
This is the first line of the first Sura (Chapter) of the Quran. The Sura is called “Al-Fatihah” which means “The Opening”. On the surface, this line seems to have a very simple meaning – unity in religion, unity in being a member of a larger group, unity in being a member of a larger family. Unity in religion is certainly a good thing – it keeps us from killing one another and trying to convert one another.
Unity in being a member of a larger group is also good, because it prevents us from being aggressive and hostile towards each other. Unity in being a member of a larger family is most definitely not good. In fact, most people would say that it’s downright evil! In essence, this line is saying that we should be tolerant and non-violent towards each other – but if we do that, we don’t have to worry about unity or community or family at all!
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