The Perils of Misusing Religious Texts in Political Discourse

By Adis Duderija, New Age Islam 31 October, 2024 In today’s world, where political polarisation and conflict seem to deepen by the day, the intersection of religion and politics has become a critical battleground. The manipulation of religious texts for political gain is not a new phenomenon; it has been a tool used throughout history to justify wars, oppression, and discrimination. However, in contemporary society, the stakes have never been higher. The use of religious texts to create essentialising views on political affairs is not only irresponsible but downright dangerous. In this essay I will explore why we must challenge those who distort religious texts for political ends, and why accountability is essential in this discourse. The Authority of Religious Texts Religious texts hold profound significance for billions of people around the world. They are often seen as divine revelations that provide moral guidance, a sense of identity, and a framework for understanding the universe. However, the authority of these texts is deeply contextual. Interpretations can vary widely based on cultural, historical, and social factors. When individuals or groups seize upon specific interpretations to promote a political agenda, they risk imposing a monolithic understanding of complex spiritual teachings. For instance, the Bible, the Quran, and other sacred texts are rich with narratives that can be interpreted in myriad ways. They contain parables, moral lessons, and instructions that speak to the human condition. Yet, when cherry-picked verses are wielded to justify acts of violence, discrimination, or xenophobia, they become tools of manipulation rather than sources of enlightenment. This selective reading fosters an essentialising view that oversimplifies both the texts themselves and the diverse communities that follow them. The Dangers of Essentialism Essentialism, the belief that certain traits or characteristics are inherent and unchangeable, can lead to dangerous stereotypes and divisive politics. When political leaders invoke religious texts to paint entire groups as monolithic entities, they strip away the nuances of individual beliefs and practices. For example, the portrayal of Muslims as inherently violent or Christians as uniformly conservative ignores the vast spectrum of beliefs within these communities. Such generalizations not only misrepresent the faiths themselves but also incite fear and hatred among populations. The consequences are not just political; they are deeply personal for those who find themselves targeted by such ideologies. Moreover, institutions, whether religious, educational, or governmental, can perpetuate essentialising views. When religious leaders fail to challenge problematic interpretations or when educational systems neglect to provide critical examinations of religious texts, they contribute to a culture of ignorance. This allows harmful narratives to flourish, further entrenching divisions within society. The Need for Accountability If we accept that the problematic use of religious texts in political discourse is both irresponsible and dangerous, the next question is: what can we do about it? Accountability is crucial in this process. Individuals and institutions that manipulate sacred texts for political gain must be called out and held responsible for their actions. This includes not only public figures but also scholars, religious leaders, and community organizations that enable or endorse such narratives. One way to foster accountability is through education. By promoting critical thinking and encouraging nuanced interpretations of religious texts, we can help dismantle essentialist views. Interfaith dialogue can also play a significant role in bridging gaps and fostering understanding among different religious communities. When individuals from diverse backgrounds come together to share their interpretations and experiences, it challenges the notion of a singular narrative and highlights the richness of religious thought. Additionally, we must support and amplify voices within religious communities that advocate for inclusive and compassionate interpretations of their faiths. By elevating these perspectives, we can counteract essentialising views and promote a more nuanced understanding of religion’s role in society. As we navigate an increasingly complex political landscape, the imperative to confront the problematic use of religious texts is more pressing than ever. The dangers of essentialism are evident in the rise of hate groups, the erosion of civil liberties, and the perpetuation of conflict and violence. Each of us has a role to play in challenging these narratives, whether through our personal interactions, our civic engagement, or our advocacy efforts. We must not remain passive observers as sacred texts are wielded as weapons. Instead, we should actively question and critique the interpretations that drive division and animosity. Engaging in respectful dialogue, seeking out diverse perspectives, and advocating for accountability are essential steps toward fostering a more inclusive society. The intersection of religion and politics is fraught with challenges, but it also presents opportunities for growth and understanding. By rejecting the essentialising views imposed by those who misuse religious texts, we can work toward a future where faith is a source of unity rather than division. The responsibility lies with each of us to call out harmful interpretations and hold those who perpetuate them accountable. Only through collective effort can we dismantle the dangerous narratives that threaten our shared humanity. ---- A decades old patron of New Age Islam, Dr Adis Duderija is a Senior Lecturer in the Study of Islam and Society, School of Humanities, Languages and Social Science; Senior Fellow Centre for Interfaith and Intercultural Dialogue, Griffith University | Nathan | Queensland | Australia. His forthcoming books are (co-edited)- Shame, Modesty, and Honora in Islam and Interfaith Engagement Beyond the Divide (Springer) --------------- URL: https://newageislam.com/islam-politics/perils-religious-texts-political-misusing/d/133591 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