The very nature of Man makes him
conscious of his environment, his existence and most importantly, his creator.
This obvious fact continues to bug the minds of most individuals to seek ways
of identifying with this Supreme Being that oversees his existence.
Instructively, science has tried to proffer some explanations regarding the
complexities and mysteries of life.
The unconvincing explanations of
science about man and his beginning have led to the founding of several
religions and sects across the world dating back to the history of mankind.
These religions are however varied in their teachings philosophies, and
doctrines which sometimes conflict with human reasoning and natural occurrence.
However, man continues to explore other avenues of spiritual self discovery
with persistent interest and resilience
Throughout history, the Abrahamic
religions of Christianity, Judaism and Islam have remained the most visible
religions of the world having a combined followership of well over 5 billion.
These three religions have remained the major sources of knowledge to man
regarding his creation and existence on earth. However, there has been a
continued conflict within the adherents of these religions which stems from their
understanding of the teachings of these religions.
Christianity Judaism and
Islam all acknowledge that they are derived from a particular source (Abraham).
Their teachings are similar in several respects and they have recorded
histories and accounts that are represented and reflected in each of their holy
books (Bible, Torah and Koran). It therefore becomes disheartening when
conflicts arise among the adherents of these religions.
In the Middle East, there exist a
ferocious confrontation between the Israelis and their Arab neighbors, in the
west there is the dissident view held by some westerners regarding the
teachings of Islam. In Africa, Islamic adherents see their Christians as
infidels that have no right to existence. These levels of intolerance among the
adherents of these religions have continued to agitate the minds of religions
enthusiasts and experts. Fortunately, it can be shown that politics and
political intrigues have continued to fuel a passion for hatred among these
religious groups. Israel and Palestine have continued to experience several
cycles of violence owing to their political differences regarding land
occupation and national identity. In Nigeria, repeated sectarian violence
fueled by political dominance and impoverishment are the main reasons for
increased violence among Muslims and Christians.
Another disturbing trend today is the
menace caused by terrorists and violent groups such as al-Qaeda, al-shabab,
Boko haram and the Taliban. These religious terrorist groups have continued to
claim that they are the defenders of Islam against Christian oppressors. It is
important for religious leaders across the world to be very mindful of the
interpretations they give to their religious teachings and proclaim same to
their adherents in a way and manner that eliminates bigotry and hatred but
promotes mutual trust and respect for a better and more peaceful
world.
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