Golden Rule Week is celebrated from April 1 to April 7 — to ponder, retell, and act on the saying that has been around thousands of years ago. Do you know that a form of the golden rule was uttered by the great Chinese sage, Confucius? That makes the rule older than Christianity itself. The golden rule generally states that people should do unto others as they want others to do unto them. And what rule can better depict a loving society than that?
History of Golden Rule Week
Although it is generally associated with the Bible — given that Christianity is now the world’s most popular religion — the golden rule dates back many millennia before Christianity’s founder, Jesus Christ. Not only that, but practically all of the world’s religions have proclaimed the law in clear terms or parables. The golden rule has been stated by philosophers and great sages throughout history. Buddha and Confucius for example, have their versions. Even though the wordings of the rule differ from religion to religion and sage to sage, the integral meaning remains the same. Perhaps, that is why it was named the ‘golden rule.’
The first week of April is singled out to be the days in which the golden rule should be pondered upon. This was first inspired by the 2005 awareness exhibit showing Pope John Paul II and a number of the Jewish people — so we can say that the holiday has been on people’s minds for more than a decade, even though it wasn’t celebrated at the time. This week is almost inextricably linked to April 5, which is known around the world as Golden Rule Day. While Golden Rule Day is only one day long, Golden Rule Week is seven days long. Imagine what may be accomplished in only a few days!
As all those who have purported it before wanted, the Golden Rule Week is generally used to inculcate the virtue of empathy in us. Being empathetic is a virtue preached by all religions and schools, and so, the holiday is one that quite guides us to a generally accepted concept by all beliefs. Perhaps, this week, we will learn to be more loving and accommodating of one another.
Golden Rule Week timeline
The famous Chinese sage sums up his teachings with the golden rule.
The Golden Rule is mentioned in the King James version of the Book of Matthew.
Charles Gibbon calls "Do unto others…" the golden rule.
Joseph Smith's “Book of Mormon” states the golden rule.
Golden Rule Week FAQs
Is the golden rule a quote?
It depends. If you are a religious person, then according to your belief, the golden rule is more than a quote — it is a commandment. However, if you look at it from the general point of view, it’s merely a wise quote/saying, although a great one.
Why should we live by the golden rule?
Simply because it increases the bond between us, the love we have for each other, the concern we show for each other, and in conclusion, it makes the world a peaceful and equitable place.
Is the golden rule still relevant today?
Generally, it should be even in the next century. However, if this question denotes whether it is practiced as it should be, then the answer is no. One man’s success largely depends on another’s failure. In the case of a contest, which is what we see in all things today, the golden rule is thrown into the litter bin.
Golden Rule Week Activities
Start by wishing others well
Change that pessimistic wish for people and turn a new leaf. Wish well for others as you would yourself.
Practice it
Don't just chant the golden rule, point towards and practice it with genuine actions. This will help you become a better person.
Change your mindset
If you are the type that relishes seeing others in anguish — change. Change your mindset and wish for others the happiness you want for yourself.
5 Interesting Facts About Empathy
It is not synonymous with sympathy
People mistake sympathy for empathy and vice versa.
It is inherent in humans
All humans have the capacity of being empathetic.
It can be learned
Humans can learn empathy.
It is not automatic
Empathy isn't an automatic feeling in some contexts.
It can be selfish
Empathizing can be done selfishly.
Why We Love Golden Rule Week
It is a virtue
Treating others the way one wants to be treated is a trait everyone should have. Virtues like the golden rule should be inherent in us.
It promotes empathy
To want for others what we want for ourselves makes us understand how people feel about some things. Consequently, we are more considerate to them.
It increases love
When we find our neighbor means well for us as they do themselves, we tend to love them more and vice versa. This will assist in the development of a healthy and loving relationship with them.
Golden Rule Week dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | April 1 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | April 1 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | April 1 | Thursday |
| 2028 | April 1 | Saturday |
| 2029 | April 1 | Sunday |
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