mir
04-05-2006, 08:51 AM
okay . . . right now in school, we're studying Islam, and it's made me think a lot about WHY there's so many different religions. in Islam, the only difference between it and Christianity or Judiasm - or, indeed, the difference of Christianity from other religions - is that both beleive that some descendant or prophet of God has already come to earth, and they preach his message. but all of those religions - and many other - beleive in the same basic idea of monotheism. they don't beleive that their prophet or holy man is as great or holy as God. so, since none of those religions are denying each others' basic tenant, why are they at war with each other so much? if Christians beleive in agape, love for all, and turning the other cheek to their enemies, what happened with all the crusades and such? Judiasm and Jews seem - at least to me, and i am a Jew, even if not a very devout one - to be pretty pacifistic, and yet they and the Arabs - who are Islamic, i think, and so beleive in equality for all - and they also veil and confine their women, i think, and Muhammad didn't beleive in that - are at war. i guess what i'm asking is, what is it about religion that brings out such strong feelings in people? something we can't even prove is true, but are willing to fight to the death for, overthrow empires for, devote our lives to? what is so powerful about religion - especially, what is it about the IDEA that's so influential, because the parts and beleifs of each are all at least a little different, and often as varied as night and day?
i'd be interested in hearing anyone's views on this.
i'd be interested in hearing anyone's views on this.