Religion is defined as, “a set of beliefs concerning the cause, nature, and purpose of the universe, especially when considered as the creation of superhuman agency or agencies, usually involving devotional and ritual observances, and often containing a moral code governing the conduct of human affairs”. In simpler terms, religion is fundamental set of beliefs and practices generally agreed upon by a number of persons or sects. Every one of us at some point in life had looked up for some supernatural power. When the approach is restricted to the individual levels only, it gets the minimal expression. But in collective acts or practices of social groups, the worship takes the form of religion.
There are numerous religions that are followed throughout the world. Every religion has its specific beliefs and definitions and ways of dealing with the subject like supernatural power or god. But with a little deep understanding it becomes crystal clear that there is uniformity in the fundamental thought and teaching of various religions. No religion spreads the message of hatred or war. Rather, showing compassion towards fellow human beings and nature are the primary principles of every religious group. Be it Christianity or Hinduism or Islam, all teach to live peacefully and strongly condemn the killing of other human beings on any basis. Religion is the path that leads to divinity. Religion helps mortals to understand their relevance and role in the whole universe.
There are no concrete examples in the history that state that religion was the basic cause of war. Yet some of the shocking incidences did occurred which led to raise questions about the role of religion in human lives. The World War I and the still ongoing Israel- Palestine conflict are supposed to stand on the foundation of religious disagreements only. Recently, in India, the religious riots in Mumbai and the Godhra riots in Gujarat put forward a very disturbing picture. Then, the current Islamic terrorism notion that is prevailing all over the world is the worst representation of the human thinking and prejudices.
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In all these cases, religions have been held responsible for the conflicts. But in true sense, it is not the religion that is wrong. There are no evidential supports in any religion of the world that justifies the killing of the innocent people. Religion preaches about spreading love and not violence. There are few self proclaimed representatives of religion who misguide the people and put up a bad show. The fanatic thinking of such religious leaders and their followers brings a bad name to the whole community and the mankind in a larger picture. There is a certain section of society that believes and propagates the idea of religious disparity. But the public will have to understand that these religious leaders are the biggest enemies of the mankind.
Religion is a way of worshipping the god. It is a way of life. And showing disparity on the basis of such prudish differences is an offence to god. Religions show the right way to live in harmony with self and others. Therefore, there are handfuls of people who bring a bad name to religion and deviate from the actual path. Religion never causes war but human being does. A truly religious person respects not only self but others’ religion also.