Extremism in Religion

An Afghan friend of ours wrote:

“I would prefer, if I ever change my mindset, to become irreligious. No religion is suitable. All of them have their own extremism.”

Thank you for expressing your opinion so honestly, dear friend. It’s true that extremism exists in various religions. However, it’s also undeniable that extremism exists in irreligion as well. Therefore, extremism is neither in religion nor irreligion but within human nature itself.

What Jesus Christ teaches, however, is very beautiful and different. He says: Love even your enemies. He also states: “A new command I give you: Love one another.” (Holy Gospel, John 13)

In this message and these ethics of love, we learn that love is not only possible for friends but even for enemies. With such love, we can overcome extremism and live in peace, harmony, and brotherhood.

I hope that you will reconsider this perspective and the desire you have for your future. I suggest reading the Holy Gospel and exploring the teachings of Jesus Christ. It might be possible that instead of running away from extremism, you could root yourself in love and find your true home there.

May you be in the protection of the Lord. Thank you for your comment.