I came across this story on BBC News today and I strongly encourage everyone to read it.
It concerns Abdul Rahman, an Afghan Muslim who has converted to Christianity. Anyone who knows me will know that I care little for organised religion, but this case highlights something I’d like to comment on.
I’ve talked before about the need for moderate Muslims to take back their religion, as I believe that the militant extremists are doing a massive disservice to the people they claim to speak for.
What this story shows is the close-minded position of religious militants of all persuasions. Many religions claim to be peaceful, tolerant, and kind, but only on their terms and conditions. I’ve found that the less dogmatic religions (Taoism, Buddhism, etc) are far more tolerant and peaceful as they are less inclined to enforce a point of view, the teachers aren’t threatened by dissent, in fact they welcome discussion as it serves to further our ability to work in harmony with the world.
As far as conversions go, a Taoist may decide to change his or her beliefs, but that’s always seen as their choice. Frankly, I think a line from Star Wars - A New Hope can be adapted here:
“The more you tighten your grip, the more believers will slip through your fingers!”
Little Dragon says:
I think this generally comes with those religions who believe that there is only 1 true way.
If we could only bring ourselves to accept the view that “there are many paths to the summit of the mountain, but from the top the view is always the same”, perhaps we would live in a more harmonious fashion.
26 March 2006, 9:41 amablokecalledbloke says:
I know, I just couldn’t believe their position. It’s like “We’re peaceful, open-minded, forgiving, but only if you convert back, else we’ll kill you!” They seem to be taking it as in insult instead of a “Thanks guys, but it’s not for me”.
This sort of thing is why I prefer Spirituality to Religion, it’s far more open and uncontrived.
26 March 2006, 10:40 am