In moderation, religion can be a potent ward against the terrible things that happen in the world. Believing that a higher power really is out there and that everything really will work out in the end can help people through difficult times. In this way, religion acts as armour, protecting us from the general misfortunes of life.
Unfortunately, there often comes a point when religion stops being about loving God (or the higher power(s) of your choice) and turns into a reason or excuse to hate and persecute others. Fanatics stop using religion as a defense against life's hardships and instead use it as a justification to destroy those they hate, fear, or oppose. This kind of thinking breeds discrimination and even outright assault, as evidenced by countless past bombings and policies. Christians bombing mosques, Muslims bombing churches - it's all the same: religion gone wrong, trading armour for swords.
"No one gets to their heaven without a fight."
There's far too much of this sentiment in the world. Violent and virtuous are not synonyms, and if one must fight for religion, it should be to defend oneself from the attacks of others. When set upon by another religion, trust your armour to protect you. Do not reach for a sword of your own.
Gormo pretty much summed up my view of this song.
In moderation, religion can be a potent ward against the terrible things that happen in the world. Believing that a higher power really is out there and that everything really will work out in the end can help people through difficult times. In this way, religion acts as armour, protecting us from the general misfortunes of life.
Unfortunately, there often comes a point when religion stops being about loving God (or the higher power(s) of your choice) and turns into a reason or excuse to hate and persecute others. Fanatics stop using religion as a defense against life's hardships and instead use it as a justification to destroy those they hate, fear, or oppose. This kind of thinking breeds discrimination and even outright assault, as evidenced by countless past bombings and policies. Christians bombing mosques, Muslims bombing churches - it's all the same: religion gone wrong, trading armour for swords.
"No one gets to their heaven without a fight." There's far too much of this sentiment in the world. Violent and virtuous are not synonyms, and if one must fight for religion, it should be to defend oneself from the attacks of others. When set upon by another religion, trust your armour to protect you. Do not reach for a sword of your own.