The Dalai Lama’s approach to interfaith understanding rests first on a deep affirmation of religious pluralism. He repeatedly emphasizes that the world’s major traditions share core ethical values such as compassion, love, forgiveness, tolerance, and service to others. Rather than focusing on doctrinal differences, he presents religions as diverse yet valid paths suited to different temperaments and cultures. This perspective allows him to speak of religious diversity not as a threat, but as something that can enrich and strengthen spiritual understanding. He encourages people to maintain their own faith while cultivating respect for the faith of others, seeing this as a foundation for genuine harmony.

His commitment is expressed in sustained, direct engagement with other religious communities. He regularly participates in interfaith conferences, summits, and dialogues, meeting leaders and scholars from Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, and many other traditions. In these settings he joins in joint statements and shared reflections on ethics, peace, and global responsibility. Such encounters are not merely symbolic; they serve as practical laboratories where mutual respect is modeled and deepened. Through these gatherings, he demonstrates that serious spiritual inquiry can unfold across religious boundaries.

A central feature of his teaching is the emphasis on “secular ethics” and universal human values. By articulating an ethical framework grounded in compassion, non‑violence, human dignity, and responsibility, he offers a common language that believers of different faiths—and those without religious affiliation—can share. This does not replace religious commitment, but rather provides a neutral meeting ground where collaboration is possible without requiring doctrinal agreement. He frequently links this ethical vision to the idea of human unity, urging people to recognize a shared humanity that transcends religious and cultural divisions.

Education and cooperative action form another important dimension of his work. He supports interfaith education and comparative study of religions, encouraging scholarly dialogue and public teaching that dispel ignorance and prejudice. Speaking in universities, seminaries, and religious institutions, he presents Buddhist thought in a way that invites conversation rather than competition. At the same time, he participates in interfaith prayer services and humanitarian initiatives, endorsing collaborative efforts to address issues such as poverty, social justice, and environmental responsibility. In this way, shared service becomes a living expression of interfaith understanding, where common values are not only discussed but embodied in concrete action.