Religion And Interpretation | Editor's Pen

Hi Friends,

 

Recently a fatwa was issued against a girl band based in Kashmir. Also, recently a self-proclaimed leader virtually took responsibility of mass murders in riots spanning over three decades. It was a retort of some sort. My point is how can the administration allow such kind of mindless propaganda? Where is this country leading to?

 

Religious leaders have immense power of faith people have in them. They are expected to lead the masses. However, over time we have seen them converting into monsters of some kind. Religion is for people. Public welfare is the biggest goal of any religion. But still, more than often, we find religion at the crossroads. Why? Under no circumstances, religion can be against the basic tenets of humanity. If it is, one should see how he is interpreting the religion. How can music be against humanity? How can religion permit ethnic cleansing by any means? How can religion be intolerant and aggressive?

 

Two very well made movies of our generation, Dharm and Khuda Ke Liye highlighted two strong points about religion. Religion will have certain rules and guidelines. First thing is to understand them and implement them in spirit, not letter. If you can take care of spirit, letter will follow on its own. Second thing, vices are reality. One should try to avoid them. However, the victims of vices should be treated with empathy, not disgust.

 

Regards

Sujoy