We think, there is what is called a book or scripture. The book was written by the holy people. In fact, the book is considered descended directly from the Creator. Its contents are considered absolute truth, and should not be questioned again.
This assumption is very wrong. There are no holy books in this world. All books, without exception, are the work of humans. It was written at one time with a specific purpose.
So, there are no holy books. There is a "book that is considered sacred". Its sanctity depends on our agreement alone. We, by the power of our wills and thoughts, give the impression of holiness to the books.
Dangerous Thought
The notion that a book is a direct work of God is not only naive but also dangerous. The book is used as the only guide to life, thus justifying our stupidity. We become lazy to use our common sense and our critical attitude. We also become deaf to our conscience.
We also often use the book for violence. We kill people who disagree. We are being unfair to the general public. We carry bombs, only because of the contents of the (heretic) book.
So, the various “books that are considered sacred” must be read properly. It should not be read carelessly. It cannot be read literally. It cannot be taken for granted.
All books, including “books that are considered sacred” should be read with common sense. It should be read with a critical attitude. It should not make people deaf to the voice of conscience. For that, four things need to be considered.
Four Principles
First, we must understand the original language of the book. We must also understand the original meaning of the language at the time the book was written. If we only read translated works, we easily fall into misunderstandings. Finally, we can hurt ourselves, or others, because of these misunderstandings.
Second, we must also understand the circumstances, when the book was written. We must understand the political, social, economic, and cultural conditions at the time when the book was written. In this way, we understand very well the main purpose of the presence of the book. We do not fall into misunderstandings that lead to stupidity, or conflicts with other people.
Third, we must also be aware that the world is constantly changing. Reading a book that is considered sacred must also pay attention to the changing times. The meaning we perceive must also change, according to the times and human consciousness. A text from a "book that is considered sacred" must have a dialogue with an increasingly complex era. Only in this way, the book can offer good value in the changing times.
Fourth, the contents in the “books that are considered sacred” should not stop us from thinking with common sense, critical attitude, and conscience. The book should not be an excuse for stupidity. Nor should it be a basis for violence, whatever its form. The reading of the book which is considered sacred must preserve and develop all expressions of life, without exception.
True Spirituality
In the end, we must realize that these “books that are considered sacred” are the way to God. It is just a tool. The contents of the books are not to be deified or to be believed blindly. If its contents keep us away from love and wisdom, then the book should be read differently, or put away.
We must also not forget that the spiritual journey must transcend all forms of books. We must touch that which is beyond words and concepts, namely God Himself. This is the highest peak of the spiritual journey. Don't let books that are considered sacred make us cling and get lost, so we can't touch God directly.
To touch God is to touch universal love itself. We come into contact with true peace and happiness. Then, we can act as needed. If it is necessary to be firm and strict, for the sake of justice and humanity, we will do so. If it needs to be gentle and warm, we will do that too.
If everyone reads the books that are considered sacred properly, then there will be no stupidity and conflict in the name of religion. The world will be much better. Religion can bring the blessings of true happiness and peace. Isn't that what we all want?
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