Here is my synopsis on the human element:
Since mankind ever graced earth with its presence, a primal need to display ones emotion has overcome our very essence. Though this sense of "emotion" has led to many positive things (fear in ourselves that leads us to overcome evil or joy that leads to the enrichment of a persons life) it also can cause unwanted violence. Religion, is merely a vessel to which we base our very existence on, and because our existence is controlled by "emotions", religion can be both good or bad.
In Short, religions such as Christianity, Buddhism, Jainism, Hinduism, and even the religion of Islam seek to bring enlightenment to the soul through acts of good. Most Christians are taught to spread the gospel of Christ because "HE" sought to rid the world of sin. It is no different with the religion of Islam. The only problem here, (the only problem there has ever been with these things), is THE HUMAN ELEMENT
Because humans were not created divine, but based off of their primal needs, it is only natural for us to try and live selfishly. Only for ourselves, whereas most religion teaches us to try and live for God, and others around us. With this "human" flaw pointed out, many extremist's have twisted the teachings set forth by their own religion, and are now nothing more than a reflection of their own selfish desires. The desire for power and control. The desire to feel as if religion itself is guiding your ever move, and giving you some sense of divine purpose. This is what has led to Islam becoming "tainted" in the eyes of the world, simply because people will always try and taint it with their OWN sinful lives.
Now I am not an extremist, but I do believe there are extremist's who will go to any length in order to support their own version of Islam. This version, now the teachings of what sometimes leads to terrorism, is nothing more than an abomination. I can not imagine a greater mutilation to religion than to twist it in a way that tries to fulfill someones own violent nature.
So what is the solution short term? We must continue to take the good with the bad. Honor those who practice Islam in the peaceful way its meant to be, and seek to bring justice to those who use it as a shield to cause destruction upon innocent lives.
Long term solution: Learn to control our emotions ( our fear and hatred, along with our selfish desires). Because our actions are almost always based on emotions, we need to find a point of serenity. If this point of serenity comes in the form of a religion then we must not let our own sins corrupt it. Think of religion as more than just a way of explaining our true origins, but also a means to live peacefully. Follow the path set forth by religious teachings, but never be too naive to think that it can still be used as an instrument of evil.
Disregard for human life and even human well being (freedom and happiness) is the deluded form of Islam. Teach this form to enough people and it becomes the law of the land. Anyways, it would seem i went on a rant, though i hope this clears things up regaurding the topic under discussion. In my opinion, there is no such thing as a good or bad religion, but rather what good or bad people make of it.
Originally Posted by Empire
