1. Muslim militant have killed the editor and cartoonists of Charlie Hebdo, a French magazine. What was their fault? They commented upon, and published caricatures of the Islam Prophet. In an ideal society, we are all a homogeneous group - educated, tolerant, and humane. Unfortunately, we don't live in an ideal society. The underdeveloped/developing nations, with illiterate or semi-literate population are vulnerable to illogical rhetoric of religious clergy. It turns a normal devotee into a fanatic. The fanatics are potential militants. They resent if journalists comment on their religion and rituals adversely. They consider it humiliating and insulting to their religion.
2. The remedy? Let's not laugh at them, their rituals and their culture. Let's not force them to accept our advice and amend their way of life. Religious beliefs and rituals are - more often than not - illogical, and anachronistic, in all religions. There are obsolete rituals in all religions, which are in use since long time - from few hundred years to couple of thousand years. There is always resistance to a change in religious rituals, beliefs, and cultural traditions.
3. Orthodox Hindus in India resent Valentine Day festivities in India. Talibans and ISI resent introduction of any Western education system for Muslim women. It means interference in their religious affairs. They are still clinging to old values and believe that women should stay at home, and do motherly duties. Nigerian militant organisation, Boko Haram considers any attempt by outside agencies to motivate local girls to learn a curriculum, other than Quran reading, as unsolicited interference in their culture and religion. Boko Haram means: 'Western education is forbidden'.
4. Let's not enforce our ideas on fanatics and militants of any religion, even if we are doing all this, in good faith. Then what is the solution?
(a) Onus lies on developed countries and enlightened leaders in developing nations, to explain new vision to the fanatic Muslim or Hindu population - who are all proud of their rich heritage. Hindu or Muslim clergy, will resist, as they will see it as a plot to spread Islam or Christianity, by offering direct or indirect benefits - free or subsidised education and other perks.
(b) There is a need to impose self-censorship by journalists. They should not create humor at the cost of other religions. They must remember the golden rule: 'Don't laugh at others; laugh with others.' Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott is against this idea, as it implies a victory for militants.
5. There is vast scope of improvement in social status of women in Hinduism, and Islam in developing countries. There is a need for change. But the urge to change has to come from within. A forcible change will result in violence and militancy. 'Khap Panchayats' in India are enforcing Draconian illegal laws in villages, and are getting away with it.
6. There is a need to discuss religious issues proactively, in the interest of humanity. It is a great opportunity, God has given us. Let's not waste it out by insisting on achieving selfish goals - "my religion, is the best and it must have highest number of followers".
7. May God bless the departed souls of the staff of Charlie Hebdo. But, let us give a thought to imposition of self-censorship, and understand the limitations of fanatics and militants, who lack a balanced view of life. Let's not make fun of the obsolete and irrational rituals, when proponents are observing the rituals and it does not affect others.
8. Let's comment and laugh at our religious beliefs and rituals. Let's laugh with others and not at others.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8876534
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