Weird and Religious
Some Islamic traditions hold that a specific black stone set into the Kaaba in Mecca came down from paradise and was originally white but turned black because it absorbed the sins of humanity. Pilgrims try to kiss or touch it during pilgrimage, not because the stone itself is worshipped, but because it is linked to a sacred story about the beginning of human history.
Religious image of the day.
In the name of religion
2014, Syria and Iraq under Islamic State expansion. The group massacred Shia Muslims, Christians, and others, destroying shrines and churches. It justified killings and enslavement through extremist interpretations of Islam, claiming divine command to eliminate unbelief and establish a caliphate.
Fact
In Judaism, there is an expectation of a future age of peace, and Judaism includes hope for a messianic era of justice and restoration.
Prophets or politicians?
What is striking is how ordinary prophets look once the divine coating is removed. They argue, negotiate, threaten, desire, and react like anyone else placed in a position of absolute authority. They are not moral outliers. They are power holders. The difference is that their power is framed as sacred rather than political, which makes it harder to resist and easier to abuse. Religion asks that these figures be admired, imitated, and obeyed. It discourages the most basic question of all. Why this person. Why this voice. Why these rules. Once those questions are allowed, the pattern becomes obvious. Gods do not choose messengers. Humans choose leaders, and some leaders learn that claiming a god is the most effective way to secure obedience.
Quote of the day
“I am against religion because it teaches us to be satisfied with not understanding the world.” Richard Dawkins.
Ask the right question
Why do different religions claim exclusive truth while relying on the same type of personal conviction and ancient texts as evidence?
Religious Crooks
T. B. Joshua was a Nigerian televangelist and faith healer who built a large international ministry, widely accused by critics and former members of staged healings and financial exploitation, while maintaining a devoted following.
For more information, google the name.
History tells us that wherever fools gathered, there was always a religious crook to take advantage of them. The best way to stop the crooks is not to be a fool.