As DEIB specialists, we consistently advocate the business case for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) and frequently engage in conversations highlighting the value of this work. Our conversations typically focus on the importance of DEIB for organisations, ecosystems, and individual well-being. However, what happens when theological perspectives enter the conversation? Addressing religious viewpoints can deepen understanding and connection, especially given that over 60% of people worldwide identify as religious, and even more believe in a higher power.

Acknowledging religious identities and integrating them into DEIB efforts is not just good practice; it leads to greater employee engagement and improved workplace morale. Religious diversity presents an opportunity for exploration and meaningful dialogue. This article continues our journey into how DEIB principles intersect with religion, focusing on five additional global faiths: Judaism, Bahá'í Faith, Jainism, Shintoism, and Cao Dai. As these religions might be less well-known, I have decided to spend a little more time explaining the foundation of each religion, thus creating a different structure than part one of this series.

While this article offers a high-level overview of these religions, it's important to recognise that each tradition holds immense depth and complexity. Additionally, the interpretation of religious teachings is deeply personal.

Judaism

Judaism is one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions, centred on believing in a single, all-powerful God who created the universe and continues to guide and care for it. Jews follow teachings from the Torah, the first five books of the Hebrew Bible, which set out laws and moral guidelines for living. Core principles include justice, compassion, and the importance of community. Jewish practices vary, but common themes include observance of the Sabbath, dietary laws (Kashrut), and a commitment to ethical behaviour. While the religion can be encountered everywhere in the world, the highest followings are currently found in the United States and Israel.

Judaism and its link to DEIB:

In Judaism, the values of Tzedek (justice) and Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) are central to the commitment to creating a just and equitable society. These concepts align closely with Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) principles, particularly in fairness in hiring, promotions, and compensation. By striving for justice in all aspects of work life, organisations can create environments where fairness and equity are not just ideals but active practices, fostering greater trust and collaboration.

The Jewish teaching of welcoming the stranger, as seen in Leviticus 19:34, emphasises the importance of inclusivity and hospitality. This mirrors DEIB's focus on ensuring that all individuals, regardless of background or identity, feel a sense of belonging and respect. In the workplace, this teaching encourages organisations to create spaces where all employees are valued, supported, and given opportunities to contribute their unique perspectives.

The principle of B’tzelem Elohim teaches that all people are created in the image of God, underscoring the inherent dignity and worth of every individual. This belief is a powerful foundation for DEIB initiatives, reinforcing the need to treat each person respectfully, regardless of differences. Recognising the divine image in all individuals aligns with efforts to foster mutual respect and equity in the workplace, encouraging leaders to see the value in each employee's contributions.

Finally, the commandment to pursue peace (Deuteronomy 16:20) is another important teaching. The pursuit of peace, or Shalom, within an organisation can lead to conflict resolution, greater understanding, and stronger relationships among diverse groups. Promoting peace and harmony in the workplace mirrors DEIB's goals of fostering an environment where people feel safe, respected, and valued for their unique contributions.

By integrating these Jewish values into the workplace, organisations can promote justice, inclusivity, and respect, creating an environment that reflects the teachings of fairness, compassion, and dignity. These principles not only enhance the workplace culture but also contribute to the broader goal of Tikkun Olam—repairing the world through ethical and equitable practices.

The Bahá'í Faith

The Baha'i Faith, founded in the 19th century by Bahá'u'lláh in Persia (modern-day Iran), teaches the unity of all religions and the oneness of humanity. It emerged from the Bábí religion, which was an offshoot of Islam. The Faith stresses equality between men and women, universal education, and eliminating all forms of prejudice. Baha'is believe in progressive revelation, meaning that religious truth is revealed over time through various prophets, including Abraham, Moses, Buddha, Jesus, Muhammad, and others, culminating in Bahá'u'lláh. The faith encourages harmony among science, religion, and society, and emphasises the importance of diversity and inclusion as essential to building a peaceful world, which aligns directly with DEIB principles. You can find followers globally, with significant populations in Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

How does the Baha'i Faith connect to DEIB principles?

In the Bahá'í Faith, the principles of unity, justice, and the oneness of humanity are fundamental teachings that align closely with Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) values. Bahá'u'lláh, the founder of the Bahá'í Faith, emphasised in his writings: “The well-being of mankind, its peace and security, are unattainable unless and until its unity is firmly established.” This foundational principle speaks directly to DEIB’s goal of creating inclusive spaces where diverse individuals can foster unity while respecting individual differences.

One of the key Bahá'í teachings is the equality of all people, reflected in Bahá'u'lláh's words: “Ye are the fruits of one tree, and the leaves of one branch.” This notion mirrors DEIB’s commitment to ensuring everyone is treated fairly in hiring, promotions, and compensation. Bahá'í writings also affirm that justice is essential for societal progress, with Bahá'u'lláh describing justice as “the best beloved of all things” in the sight of God. In the workplace, applying principles of justice ensures that equitable practices provide the opportunity to thrive and contribute to collective success for all.

The Bahá'í concept of consultation, found in the writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, Bahá'u'lláh’s son and successor, promotes respectful and open dialogue. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá explains: “Consultation bestoweth greater awareness and transmuteth conjecture into certitude. It is a shining light which, in a dark world, leadeth the way and guideth.” This process of inclusive decision-making fosters respect for diverse viewpoints, mirroring DEIB’s focus on collaboration and inclusivity. Through consultation, organisations can leverage the diverse perspectives of their employees, stimulating innovation and creativity.

The principle of the oneness of humanity is central to the Bahá'í Faith, with Bahá'u'lláh proclaiming: “The earth is but one country, and mankind its citizens.” This belief directly supports DEIB’s vision of creating workplaces where all individuals feel a sense of belonging, regardless of their background or identity. Bahá'í teachings stress the importance of breaking down barriers of prejudice and division, urging individuals and organisations alike to work toward unity and understanding.

The Bahá'í Faith also places a strong emphasis on universal education and the elimination of inequality. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá stated: “Education is of utmost importance. It is inconceivable that any nation should achieve prosperity and success unless this paramount, this fundamental concern is carried forward.” DEIB initiatives aimed at providing equal access to learning and career development reflect this Bahá'í commitment to uplifting all individuals, particularly those from marginalised groups.

These principles not only support the goals of DEIB but also help foster environments where diversity is celebrated, and all individuals are empowered to contribute to the common good, in line with the Bahá'í vision of a just and unified world.

Jainism

Jainism is an ancient Indian religion emphasising non-violence (Ahimsa) as the highest ethical principle. Followers of Jainism seek to live a life of harmlessness and renunciation, practising strict vegetarianism and seeking to avoid harm to any living beings. Key Jain beliefs include karma, the cycle of birth and rebirth (samsara), and the ultimate goal of achieving liberation (moksha) through self-discipline and spiritual enlightenment. Jainism advocates for compassion, equality, and respect for all forms of life, aligning with DEIB efforts to create inclusive and non-harmful environments. Treating every living being with dignity resonates strongly with DEIB's focus on equity and belonging. Jains believe in the interconnectedness of all life and strive to live in harmony with others.

Jainism and its alignment with DEIB

In Jainism, the principles of Ahimsa (non-violence), Anekantavada (many-sidedness or pluralism), and Aparigraha (non-possessiveness) are central teachings that align with Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) principles. Ahimsa, the most important Jain value, emphasises non-violence in thought, word, and deed. As stated in the Acharanga Sutra: "One should not injure, subjugate, enslave, torture or kill any living being, including minute creatures." This emphasis on non-harm encourages a workplace culture rooted in compassion, respect, and mutual care, where individuals of all backgrounds feel valued and safe.

Anekantavada, the belief in the multiplicity of viewpoints, teaches that no single perspective holds the whole truth. In Tattvartha Sutra it is written: "Truth is multifaceted." This principle supports DEIB goals by promoting open-mindedness and the understanding that diverse perspectives enrich organisational decision-making. Encouraging employees to appreciate and consider multiple viewpoints helps create a more inclusive and innovative environment.

The principle of Aparigraha, or non-attachment, teaches the value of simplicity and limiting material desires. As expressed by Jain spiritual leader Mahavira: "Attachment and aversion are the root cause of karma, and karma results in bondage." In the workplace, Aparigraha can be applied by fostering fairness and avoiding greed in hiring, promotions, and compensation. It advocates for equal opportunity and discourages exploitation, aligning with DEIB’s commitment to fairness and justice.

Jainism’s teaching of the inherent worth of every soul, seen in texts such as Samayasara where it states, "All souls are alike and potentially divine," underscores the DEIB focus on human dignity. This teaching promotes equality and respect for all individuals, regardless of background, as every person carries the same intrinsic worth.

By embracing these core Jain values—non-violence, pluralism, non-attachment, and the intrinsic value of every soul—organisations can foster a more inclusive and equitable environment. These principles encourage a compassionate, fair, and collaborative workplace that not only reflects Jain's teachings but also supports the broader goals of DEIB, creating a culture of respect, openness, and unity.

Shintoism

Shinto is the indigenous religion of Japan, rooted in the worship of kami — sacred spirits believed to inhabit natural elements like mountains, rivers, trees, and ancestors. Shinto does not have a single founder or a formal set of scriptures but is centred on rituals and practices that foster a connection between people and nature. Harmony, purity, and respect for tradition are central values in Shinto. While Shinto does not focus on doctrines or moral teachings like other religions, it fosters a sense of belonging, cultural identity, and respect for the environment. Its emphasis on reverence for nature and community resonates with the DEIB principle of fostering environments of mutual respect and care for the collective.

Harmony between Shintoism and DEIB:

In Shintoism, the principles of purity, harmony, and reverence for nature and humanity are deeply rooted in its teachings and align with Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) principles. A core Shinto belief is that all things, including people and nature, are imbued with kami, or divine spirits. This belief fosters a profound respect for every individual and the natural world. The reverence for all life and the divine presence within it can be connected to DEIB’s goal of valuing each person’s unique worth and contributions. As the Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters) states, “Heaven and Earth, and all between them, are imbued with kami.” This teaches respect for diversity, promoting the recognition of the spiritual essence in everyone.

The concept of wa (harmony) is central to Shinto and focuses on maintaining balance and peaceful coexistence within communities and the environment. The Nihon Shoki (Chronicles of Japan) emphasises, "The way of harmony must be pursued," reinforcing the importance of creating inclusive and harmonious environments where diverse perspectives and experiences are appreciated. DEIB principles resonate with this teaching by striving to build workplace cultures that respect diversity and encourage collaboration for the common good.

Shinto also emphasises makoto no kokoro (a sincere heart), which advocates for sincerity, honesty, and goodwill in all interactions. This principle can be applied in business contexts, promoting ethical practices, transparency, and mutual respect, ensuring that all employees feel valued and supported. In the words of Shinto priest Yukitaka Yamamoto, "True Shinto is a belief in the sincerity and honesty of human beings." This emphasis on authenticity and moral integrity is in line with DEIB’s focus on fostering equitable and fair workplaces.

By integrating Shinto values such as reverence for life, harmony, and sincerity, organisations can create inclusive and respectful environments. These principles not only reflect Shinto teachings but also contribute to a workplace culture where diversity is honoured, and all individuals feel a sense of belonging, enhancing both unity and creativity.

Cao Dai

Cao Dai (Đạo Cao Đài) is a relatively new religion that originated in Vietnam in the 1920s. It blends elements from many world religions, including Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Christianity, and Islam. It also incorporates influences from spiritualism and veneration of historical and literary figures like Victor Hugo and Sun Yat-sen. It is polytheistic, acknowledging multiple deities from different religions, yet it aims to synthesise these into one unified belief system. Cao Dai worships a supreme god, Cao Đài Tiên Ông Đại Bồ Tát Ma Ha Tát, alongside various deities from different religions. The faith promotes love, justice, and equality for all beings. The guiding principle of "unity in diversity" in Cao Dai aligns with DEIB goals of fostering a world where differences are celebrated, and equity is sought for all people. The religion also emphasises the importance of serving humanity, which reflects DEIB’s mission of creating inclusive, supportive environments.

Where do Cao Dai and DEIB find each other:

In Cao Dai, the principles of unity, inclusivity, and compassion are central, aligning with the goals of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB). Cao Dai teaches that all religions share the same divine origin and that humanity is one universal family under God. This belief in the interconnectedness of all people supports the DEIB principle of creating inclusive environments where every individual is valued, regardless of their background. As the Divine Path to Eternal Life states: "All religions have the same principle: love and justice. Humanity is but one family, and all beings are our brothers and sisters." This teaching encourages the respect and acceptance of diverse perspectives and promotes unity in diversity.

Cao Dai also emphasises compassion and service to others as essential virtues. Followers are encouraged to practice kindness and help those in need, reflecting DEIB’s commitment to creating equitable opportunities and supporting underserved groups. This focus on compassion aligns with fostering a workplace where employees are cared for and supported, promoting a culture of belonging.

The concept of universal harmony, central to Cao Dai, teaches that the world thrives when there is balance and peace among all people. This principle mirrors the DEIB objective of building harmonious and equitable workplaces where differences are embraced, and collaboration is encouraged. Cao Dai’s emphasis on justice and equality, seen in its belief that all souls are equal before God, strengthens the idea of creating fair work environments where everyone can thrive.

By integrating these Cao Dai values of unity, compassion, and justice, organisations can cultivate a more inclusive, equitable, and respectful workplace. These teachings not only reflect the spiritual ideals of Cao Dai but also resonate with the broader goals of DEIB, promoting a culture where diversity is celebrated, and everyone feels valued.

Conclusion

Exploring the intersection of Judaism, Bahá'í Faith, Jainism, Shinto, and Cao Dai with DEIB reveals a shared commitment to values such as equality, respect, and compassion. These religious traditions, though diverse in their beliefs and practices, each offer wisdom that can enhance organisational culture by promoting fairness, inclusion, and a sense of belonging.

Incorporating these spiritual teachings into DEIB efforts not only honours religious diversity but also fosters a more engaged, innovative, and harmonious workplace, where all individuals are valued and empowered.

If you have additional thoughts or perspectives on how religion ties into DEIB, feel free to share them in the comments. Let’s continue this important conversation with care and openness!