Why Do Some People Mistreat Religion?

The question of why some individuals mistreat religion is a profound and multifaceted one, whose roots must be sought in the complexities of human existence, psychological and social factors, and sometimes even in misunderstandings and personal experiences. The Holy Quran, as a book of divine guidance, addresses this phenomenon in various ways, unveiling the primary reasons for humanity’s deviation from the path of truth. 'Mistreating religion' can encompass a broad spectrum, from outright denial and rejection to the distortion of its teachings, abuse of religion's name for personal gain, or even disrespect towards its values, symbols, and followers. This phenomenon is not limited to contemporary times; throughout history, there have always been individuals who, for various reasons, have opposed the divine message and its bearers. Their actions can be considered a form of mistreatment of religion, behaviors that, from a Quranic perspective, have deep roots within human beings and society, and are less connected to religion itself, for divine religion always calls to goodness, justice, and peace, and rejects all forms of evil and corruption. We will delve into some of these main reasons, drawing upon Quranic teachings, with the aim of gaining a deeper and more empathetic understanding of these challenges. One of the primary reasons for mistreating religion is 'ignorance' and 'a lack of proper understanding' of its true essence. Many individuals encounter religion not through its authentic sources—the Quran and the verified Sunnah of the Prophets—but through incomplete interpretations, malicious hearsay, negative personal experiences with certain self-proclaimed religious individuals whose actions contradict religious teachings, or distorted information. This ignorance can stem from a failure to study and reflect deeply on religious teachings, an inattention to the Quran's repeated invitations to intellect and contemplation, or even from blind prejudices and preconceived notions that prevent one from seeing the truth. The Holy Quran repeatedly invites humanity to reflect, ponder on the signs in the cosmos and within themselves, and to acquire knowledge. It strongly condemns those who choose a path of error without knowledge or understanding. Those who attack religion for flimsy reasons or based on baseless and unreliable hearsay are often unaware of the truth, beauty, depth, and tolerant spirit of its teachings. This unawareness and misunderstanding pave the way for widespread misinterpretations and, ultimately, lead to mistreatment and opposition towards religion. These individuals might perceive religion merely as a set of rigid and restrictive rules, without appreciating the true freedom, social justice, spiritual growth, and psychological peace that genuine religion offers. They may attribute any shortcomings, mistakes, or even crimes committed by individuals or groups claiming adherence to religion to religion itself, and consequently, pass judgment on religion as a whole, whereas the authentic teachings of religion are exempt from such behaviors. Another significant reason is 'arrogance' and 'haughtiness.' The Holy Quran narrates stories of various nations who, due to their arrogance, rejected divine prophets and the clear signs of God, refusing to submit to the truth. Pharaoh, in the story of Prophet Moses (peace be upon him), is a prime example of such arrogance; despite witnessing clear miracles and grasping the truth, he refused to accept it, considering himself superior and beyond divine guidance. An arrogant person views themselves as self-sufficient and independent of divine guidance, unwilling to tolerate any command or restriction that comes from God. This pride and arrogance prevent submission to the truth and drive individuals towards opposition and conflict with religion and its values. Such individuals might consider themselves wiser or more powerful than to need divine guidance, or they might regard their social status, power, wealth, or even worldly knowledge as proof of their superiority, thereby exempting themselves from accepting the truth. They may even view religion as a tool for controlling the masses and attempt to destroy it to maintain their status and power, or alternatively, interpret and alter its teachings to justify their own arrogance and oppression. 'Worldly attachment' and 'excessive fondness for material pleasures' are also crucial factors contributing to the mistreatment of religion. Religion, by emphasizing moral values, spirituality, contentment, and the Hereafter, sometimes stands in contrast to humanity's insatiable desires for accumulating wealth, acquiring illicit power, and indulging in transient worldly pleasures. Those who make this world their ultimate goal and become overly attached to it may perceive religious teachings as an impediment to achieving their material objectives. Consequently, they either attempt to distort religion to align it with their own interests or openly oppose it and work to tarnish its image. The Holy Quran clearly warns that this world is a deceptive and temporary provision, and the Hereafter is far more valuable and eternal. However, those who turn a blind eye to this truth may even be willing to violate religious and ethical principles for worldly gain and harbor resentment towards those who adhere to these principles. They may see religion as an obstacle to their unlimited freedoms in accumulating wealth and pursuing pleasure, and for this reason, they become hostile towards it and strive to weaken it. 'Hypocrisy' (Nifaq) is another dangerous reason for mistreating religion. Hypocrites are those who outwardly declare faith and position themselves among believers, but inwardly they are disbelievers, and are even more dangerous to the religious community than overt disbelievers because they strike at religion from within and undermine public trust. The Holy Quran, in numerous verses, describes the characteristics of hypocrites: show-off (riya), lying, feigning faith for personal gain, and striving to create discord and division among believers. Their mistreatment of religion stems from their inner resentment towards it, aiming to weaken it or to portray a negative and unrealistic image of religion through their actions. They might commit acts in the name of religion that tarnish its image, or spread doubts and suspicions among people through deceptive words and instigation. Their malicious actions and intentions ultimately harm religion and the religious community, leading others to become cynical towards religion and believers. Furthermore, 'false prejudices' and 'blind imitation of ancestors,' as well as 'satanic whispers' and 'negative social influences,' should not be overlooked. Some individuals, without research or contemplation, follow a certain path simply because their ancestors did, even if it contradicts the truth. The Quran condemns this type of blind imitation. Satan constantly strives to divert humans from the right path, leading them towards disbelief and sin. Corrupt social environments, bad companions, and media that promote anti-values can play a significant role in fostering cynicism and mistreatment of religion. These external factors, by stimulating internal weaknesses (such as pride or worldliness), draw individuals towards opposing religion. By outlining the roots of such mistreatment, the Holy Quran, in essence, guides us on how to confront these challenges. The solution lies in increasing awareness, purifying the heart from moral vices, deep reflection on divine verses, and seeking truth with sincere intention. Avoiding religion and mistreating it are often consequences of neglecting these fundamental principles. This profound Quranic understanding of the psychological and social dimensions of deviation helps us to approach this phenomenon with greater wisdom and insight, understanding its roots rather than merely condemning it, and taking steps towards correction and enlightenment. Islam is a religion of peace, mercy, justice, and ethics, and any mistreatment of it stems from a lack of proper understanding or from motives that are in complete contradiction to the spirit of divine teachings. Understanding that religion is a set of principles and guidelines for true human welfare in this world and the Hereafter can resolve many misunderstandings, pave the way for its acceptance and practice, and prevent mistreatment.