Weird and Religious
In parts of West Africa, belief in witchcraft can focus on the idea that spiritual power is inherited within families and can be used unconsciously to harm others. Misfortune such as illness or business failure may be explained through these unseen forces rather than chance.
Religious image of the day.
In the name of religion
2016, Dhaka in Bangladesh. Islamist Muslim militants attacked a cafe, killing hostages including foreigners. Attackers declared allegiance to Islamic State and justified the act as jihad, targeting those labelled non believers and enemies of Islam.
Fact
In Confucianism, public service is honoured, and Confucianism historically shaped systems where officials were selected through learning.
Metaphor to the rescue
Defenders of impossible stories such as Noah's Ark often argue that these stories were never meant to be taken literally, but this is historically false. For centuries, disbelief was punished and doubt was condemned. These narratives were taught as fact because they worked. They inspired awe, discouraged questioning, and separated believers from sceptics. Only later, when the audience became harder to impress and easier to educate, did metaphor appear as a rescue strategy.
Quote of the day
“Religious belief is an insult to human dignity. It is a way of refusing to think.” Christopher Hitchens.
Ask the right question
How can an all powerful being be offended by human thoughts or private doubts?
Religious Crooks
ESwami Premananda is a Hindu guru in India who ran an ashram and was convicted of rape and murder, with courts finding that spiritual status was used to control and abuse followers.
For more information, google the name.
Every country in the world has its fair share of spiritual crooks.
If a real God existed, would he allow crooks to act on his behalf?