The most basic truth about religions is that they are institutions. From the perspective of any institution, questions that threaten the purpose of that institution also threaten the existence of that institution. The continued existence of an institution, while not necessarily its primary purpose, often becomes a primary decision making factor. As a result, most institutions seek to silence or invalidate those brave and perhaps foolish enough to question the establishment. Religion is no different in this respect, as history plainly shows several instances when the dominant religion in a given society becomes violently defensive.
Do religions differ from large corporations, political organizations, and the dominant nations of the world? Are we to believe that religion is nothing more then another social construct used to manipulate humanity? There are those who would argue that it is, indeed, just a monolithic entity of oppression. These individuals are missing half of the truth regarding religion.
Religion is an institution of asking questions that cannot be answered. Questions such as “Who am I?” “Why am I here?” “How did we come to be?” and other questions concerning the human condition, dominate religious conversation. Spirituality, from which religion evolved, is nothing less than an act of creative and curious questioning. This sets religion apart and makes it a living self-contradiction. By its very nature, religion inspires people to question the validity of religion.
Of course, this doesn’t let religion off the hook for the horrific history it brings to the human experience. Although it would be easy to dismiss the whole sordid affair on the inherently violent and malicious nature of humanity, to do so one would have to turn a blind eye to the religious intolerance and violence that still exists. Today, religion is just as hateful as has been throughout history. Just because western society does not condone violence on behalf of faith does not mean it never happens.
What it does mean is that religions, in order to find their place in modern society, must be willing to accept a lesser role then what they have had throughout human history. No one religion can ever again be a monolithic force that dominates every level of society. Religion’s place in society is not all encompassing. Religion exists to enrich our lives, to ask important questions concerning the human condition, and to serve as a preventative measure against mental illness. No longer can religion be considered an infallible source of knowledge, morality, and truth. It is only by accepting this lesser role that religion can continue to serve humanity.
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