All Religions Are Not The Same

The latest writing of Professor Art Hobson (The Tragedy of Religious Fundamentalism, Feb. 2) left me stunned.

He points out difficulties in the Middle East and North Africa caused by Islamic Fundamentalism. It truly is a sad commentary on Islam and its violent roots now expressed in the day-to-day turmoil.

He then “lumps” Christians who believe the Bible is God’s word into the same category by quoting an analysis on evolutionary psychology printed in 2009. (Please note: it seems the analysis did not even review the Islamic nations he speaks of, but that must be irrelevant.) He also easily lumps the U.S. with Islamic nations. His final point, “Healthy democracy and fundamentalism are incompatible.”

The professor made the mistake others have by claiming or at least implying, “all those religions are the same.”

Here is where some critical thinking can help. Please compare the founders of Islam and Christianity.

Mohammad rightfully spoke against the idolatry and decadence of his country and town. Once he began to have a following, those in power (in Mecca) drove him out and he settled in Medina.

His followers and others dissatisfied with the power structure rallied around him and made him general to set up an earthly kingdom. As general, he took numerous wives (some historians place it as high as 22), overtook lands and caravans by shear power, plundered them to feed and expand his army, killed many on those military outings, went back to his hometown with military strength and told them they could submit to him or die.

(Of course, much more could be written about the exploits of the prophet and the expansion of Islam.) Today Muslims around the world are simply following the example of their founder, trying to live out his message. They hope to establish an earthly kingdom under an Islamic caliphate.

Please be honest enough to contrast that with Jesus Christ.

Jesus also rightfully spoke against the abuses of his day and also was driven from his hometown. He also gathered followers to his cause and to himself (I don’t know how to read the four Gospel writings except literally). And often many wanted him to set up an earthly kingdom; he steadfastly refused. Instead, he said his kingdom was a spiritual kingdom. He was an example of peace: “When they hurled their insults at him he did not retaliate; when he suffered he made no threats.” He told his followers to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them. When he came to Jerusalem he wept over it, stretched out his arms on a cross and died for those who had pinned him there and prayed for their forgiveness.

I agree much has been done in the name of religion that is sad and even sickening, Christianity is no exception. But when Muslims do what they are doing, they are obeying their leader; when Christians do, they are making a mockery of their leader’s example and teachings.

All religions are not the same.

C. ODEGAARD

Siloam Springs