Exploring the Role of Religion in Hatred and Conflict: Myth or Reality?

By Ghulam Ghaus Siddiqi, New Age Islam 31 December 2024 Is Religion the Cause of Hatred? Understanding the Human Factor Main Points: This article explores the complex relationship between religion and hatred, examining whether religion itself causes violence and division or if human misinterpretation and manipulation of religious teachings are the true culprits. Through historical and contemporary examples, the essay highlights how secular ideologies and political movements have also fuelled hatred and violence. It emphasizes that the core teachings of Islam, like those of other religions, advocate for peace, justice, and compassion. Ultimately, the article argues that violence arises not from religion itself, but from human actions driven by personal or political motives. ----- The question of whether religion causes hatred is one that has been asked many times throughout history, often arising in the context of religiously motivated violence, conflicts, and tensions between different religious groups. Mr. Ghulam Mohiyuddin has commented, “Is it possible that while religions claim to promote harmony and brotherhood, in reality, they are the cause of much of our hatred and violence? It is easy to blame humans for our intolerance and division, but no one wonders about the role of religions in this frenzied behaviour.” This statement reflects the complexity of understanding religion's role in human conflict, suggesting a need to examine the relationship between religious teachings and the actions of individuals or groups who claim to follow them. The exploration of whether religion causes hatred requires us to consider historical and contemporary examples of violence and division. But before tackling this question directly, it is vital to understand that human beings, in all their complexity, are often the driving force behind hatred, conflict, and violence, regardless of their religious affiliations. Often, these actions are rooted not in religious doctrine but in human interpretation and misuse of religious beliefs. Therefore, a comprehensive look at historical and modern examples of non-religious ideologies leading to hatred and violence can help shed light on the underlying causes of human conflict. Non-Religious Ideologies and Movements: Historical Examples of Hatred and Violence Many instances in history have shown that ideologies, often secular or political in nature, have also led to widespread violence and oppression. This serves as a reminder that hatred and violence are not inherently tied to religion. The following examples demonstrate how ideologies, independent of religious teachings, have created hatred and conflict: 1. Communism and Marxist Ideology • Soviet Union under Joseph Stalin: Stalin's regime (1924–1953) in the Soviet Union, which was officially atheist and rooted in Marxist-Leninist ideology, was responsible for the deaths of millions. His policies of forced collectivization, the Great Purge, and the systematic repression of political opponents led to widespread suffering. The death toll during this period is estimated to be in the tens of millions, with millions dying in forced labour camps (Gulags), executions, and famine. • Mao Zedong's China: Mao's China (1949–1976) under Communist rule was also marked by violence and persecution. The Cultural Revolution (1966–1976), led by Mao, was aimed at reinforcing communist ideology and eradicating old cultural and religious practices. It led to the deaths of millions and widespread suffering as intellectuals, religious figures, and perceived counter-revolutionaries were persecuted, tortured, and executed. • Pol Pot's Cambodia (Khmer Rouge): The Khmer Rouge regime under Pol Pot (1975–1979) sought to establish a radical communist agrarian society, eliminating all perceived enemies of the state, including intellectuals, religious figures, and anyone with connections to the old regime. This resulted in the deaths of an estimated 1.5 to 2 million people, approximately a quarter of the country's population. 2. Fascism and Totalitarian Regimes • Nazi Germany (1933–1945): The Nazi regime, led by Adolf Hitler, was based on an extreme form of nationalism and racial ideology, rather than religious principles. The Nazis sought to exterminate entire groups of people they considered "racially inferior," particularly Jews, in the Holocaust. The regime also targeted other groups such as Romani people, disabled individuals, and political dissidents. The result was the deaths of approximately 6 million Jews and millions of others in concentration camps, forced labour, and warfare. The violence and hatred stemmed from the Nazi belief in Aryan racial superiority, not from any religious teachings. • Italian Fascism under Benito Mussolini: Mussolini’s fascist regime in Italy (1922–1943) was driven by a non-religious ideology of nationalism, militarism, and authoritarianism. Mussolini’s government, in its pursuit of territorial expansion and suppression of political opposition, led to violence, including the brutal repression of political dissidents, ethnic minorities, and civilians in occupied territories. 3. Atheism and Secularism in the French Revolution • During the French Revolution (1789–1799), secular ideologies took centre stage, particularly during the Reign of Terror (1793–1794), when revolutionary leaders like Maximillian Robespierre sought to eliminate the influence of the Catholic Church and traditional religious structures. The French Revolution’s violence, including mass executions by guillotine, was largely motivated by political and secular goals rather than religious differences. The period saw the deaths of tens of thousands, many of whom were executed for their political beliefs, and the entire clergy was targeted for its perceived opposition to the revolution. 4. The Rwandan Genocide (1994) • The Rwandan Genocide is an example where religion did not play a central role in the conflict. Instead, the violence was primarily driven by ethnic hatred between the Hutu and Tutsi populations. Over a period of about 100 days, approximately 800,000 Tutsi people were killed by Hutu extremists, who had been incited by propaganda, fear, and political manipulation. Although many individuals involved in the violence may have been religious, the genocide was not carried out in the name of religion, but rather ethnic identity and political power. 5. The Yugoslav Wars (1990s) • While religious identity was certainly a factor in the Yugoslav Wars, particularly between Serbs, Croats, and Bosniaks, the underlying causes of the violence were deeply rooted in ethnic nationalism, political struggles, and territorial disputes, rather than religious doctrine. The wars involved ethnic cleansing, brutal massacres, and the forced displacement of civilians. The leaders of the warring factions, such as Slobodan Milosevic, often used religious and ethnic rhetoric to stoke fear and hatred, but their motivations were primarily driven by political power and nationalist ideologies rather than a commitment to religious belief. 6. The Anarchist Movements • In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, anarchist movements, particularly in Europe and the Americas, led to violence and terror in the name of abolishing the state and established hierarchies. While not all anarchists were anti-religious, many secular anarchists condemned organized religion as part of their broader critique of societal structures. Several high-profile acts of violence, including assassinations and bombings, were carried out by anarchists with the goal of promoting revolutionary change and dismantling authority, often resulting in loss of innocent lives. 7. The Spanish Inquisition • While the Inquisition was religious in nature, it is important to mention that it also led to tremendous violence and persecution, largely driven by political motivations as well as the desire to consolidate power within the Catholic Church. It targeted not only heretics but also non-Christians and "false converts" (Jews and Muslims), leading to torture, execution, and mass expulsions. This was a period of extreme violence and hatred in the name of religious orthodoxy, but the motivations behind the Inquisition were often tied to political power and control. These examples show that movements or regimes driven by secular, political, or nationalist ideologies have caused far-reaching violence and hatred, often far surpassing anything attributed to religious groups. The key takeaway is that violence and hatred can emerge from a variety of sources, including political ideologies, ethnic hatred, and secular motivations, and are not the exclusive domain of religious groups. It is how human beings interpret and use ideas, be they religious or secular that often determines the outcomes of such beliefs. The Role of Religion in Promoting Peace and Harmony Now that we have seen how secular ideologies can cause widespread hatred and violence, it is important to address the question of religion’s role in this dynamic. Is it possible that religion, specifically Islam in this context, contributes to the division and violence we often see in the world today? To answer this question, it is essential to look at the core teachings of Islam, which emphasize peace, compassion, and justice. Islam, like other major world religions, promotes the values of peace, mutual respect, and understanding. The Qur'an and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasize that the true purpose of religion is to guide humanity toward righteousness, to foster love and compassion, and to build a society based on justice and peace. 1. The Qur'an: Peaceful Coexistence with Others: "O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted." (Qur'an 49:13) This verse promotes mutual understanding and respect among different peoples and tribes. It encourages learning about one another and emphasizes that the most virtuous people are those who are righteous, not those who belong to a specific tribe or group. Peaceful Interaction with Non-Muslims: "Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes – from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly." (The Qur'an 60:8) This verse stresses the importance of fairness, justice, and kindness to those who may not share the same faith, particularly those who do not pose a threat to Muslims. It encourages peaceful and just relationships with non-Muslims. Promotion of Peace: "And if they incline to peace, then incline to it also and put your trust in Allah. Indeed, it is He who is the Hearing, the Knowing." (The Qur'an 8:61) This verse advocates for peace and reconciliation, urging Muslims to respond positively if others seek peace. Harmony among People: "The believers are but a single brotherhood, so make peace and reconciliation between your two (contending) brothers." (The Qur'an 49:10) This verse emphasizes the importance of unity and peace among Muslims, promoting reconciliation in the face of conflict. 2. Hadith (Sayings of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him): Promoting Peace: "Shall I not tell you about the best of deeds? It is to spread peace (salām) between people." (Sahih al-Bukhari) This hadith highlights that spreading peace among people is one of the best deeds a Muslim can engage in. Respect for All Humans: "None of you truly believes until he wishes for his brother what he wishes for himself." (Sahih al-Bukhari) This well-known hadith encourages empathy and understanding, which are key elements in fostering harmony and peaceful coexistence. No Harm in Religion: "Whoever harms others, Allah will harm him." (Sahih Muslim) This hadith makes it clear that causing harm to others, whether physically or emotionally, is prohibited in Islam. It underscores the importance of peaceful conduct and mutual respect. Kindness toward Neighbours: "Jibril (Gabriel) kept advising me about the neighbour until I thought he would inherit from him." (Sahih al-Bukhari) The Prophet (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of treating neighbours well to the extent that he believed the neighbour could inherit from the person due to the level of kindness and care expected. Tolerance and Coexistence: "You will not enter Paradise until you believe, and you will not believe until you love one another." (Sahih Muslim) This hadith emphasizes the value of mutual love and harmony in the community. Belief is tied to loving others, fostering a peaceful and compassionate society. Principles of Justice and Peace in Islam: Justice Over Revenge: "The recompense for an injury is an injury the like thereof; but whoever forgives and makes reconciliation – his reward is with Allah. Indeed, He does not like wrongdoers." (The Qur'an 42:40) This verse promotes forgiveness and reconciliation over revenge or harm, which is essential for maintaining peace in society. Call for Justice: "O, you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives." (The Qur'an 4:135) This verse calls for justice, even when it is difficult, and encourages believers to uphold fairness and equity in their interactions with all people. Islamic History of Coexistence: The Charter of Medina (Constitution of Medina) This was a document created by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) that outlined the rights and duties of all members of the community, including Muslims, Jews, and other groups in Medina. It emphasized peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and shared defence responsibilities. The Charter promoted cooperation and peaceful coexistence among diverse religious communities. These Qur'anic verses and hadiths highlight the fundamental Islamic principles of peace, justice, and coexistence. Islam encourages peaceful relationships not only among Muslims but also with non-Muslims. The religion advocates for kindness, empathy, and the rejection of violence, promoting a society where mutual respect and understanding can flourish. Misinterpretation of Religion: Distortion and Manipulation Despite the clear message of peace in Islamic teachings, history has shown that individuals have sometimes misused religion to justify violence, division, and hatred. This misuse of religion is not inherent to the religion itself but is a result of human misinterpretation or distortion. Those who manipulate religious teachings for personal or political gain often create the illusion that religion itself is the source of violence and division. In many instances, individuals or groups have used religion to justify violence against others, claiming that their actions are supported by religious teachings. However, such actions contradict the core message of the religion, which advocates for peace, justice, and mutual respect. Examples of Distortion of Religion 1. The Crusades: During the Crusades, religious leaders manipulated Christian teachings to justify the slaughter of Muslims, Jews, and others in the name of faith. 2. Colonialism: European powers often used Christianity to justify the subjugation and exploitation of indigenous populations in Africa, Asia, and the Americas. 3. Terrorism: Extremist groups, such as Al-Qaeda and ISIS, have hijacked Islamic teachings to justify acts of terrorism and violence, distorting the peaceful message of Islam to suit their political goals. Religion as a Force for Peace In conclusion, religion itself does not inherently cause hatred or violence. While certain religious movements or individuals may engage in violent acts, these actions are more a result of human misinterpretation and distortion than of the teachings of the religion itself. Islam, like other world religions, promotes values of peace, justice, compassion, and reconciliation. Violence and hatred are not unique to religion; secular ideologies and political movements have also been responsible for some of the worst atrocities in history. Therefore, it is crucial to understand that the root cause of violence often lies in human misdeeds, political motives, or distorted ideologies, rather than the peaceful teachings of religion itself. Recommendation for Peace True peace can only be achieved when individuals and societies return to the core teachings of their faiths—teachings that emphasize respect for others, justice, and the common good. In the case of Islam, this means embracing the message of peace, reconciliation, and compassion for all people, regardless of their religion or background. --- A regular Columnist with NewAgeIslam.com, Ghulam Ghaus Siddiqi Dehlvi is a Classical Islamic scholar with a rich Sufi Madrasa background and expertise in English-Arabic-Urdu translation. Throughout his career, he has emerged as a prominent figure in the realm of Islamic scholarship, consistently contributing valuable insights and analysis on a wide range of crucial topics. Through his regular writings, he has delved into multifaceted subjects, including but not limited to deradicalisation strategies, the promotion of moderation within Islamic teachings, counter-terrorism efforts, and the vital mission of combating Islamophobia. Moreover, he extensively addresses the urgent need to challenge radical ideologies through well-reasoned arguments and scholarly discourse. Beyond these critical issues, his work also encompasses in-depth discussions on human rights principles, the significance of safeguarding religious rights, and the profound exploration of Islamic mysticism. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/interfaith-dialogue/exploring-religion-hatred-conflict-myth/d/134198 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism