MT RPK: What if the shoe was on the other foot?

What if the shoe was on the other foot?        PDF         Print         E-mail
Posted by admin   
Thursday, 30 April 2009 02:49



Source: http://mt.m2day.org/2008/content/view/21204/84/

In the first place, I DO NOT whack Islam. Yes, I whack Muslims. But I do not whack Islam. And I am certainly not in the business of whacking the other religions, any religion for that matter.

NO HOLDS BARRED

Raja Petra Kamarudin

Today, I want to break away from politics for a short while and talk about a subject many do not like to talk about -- Islam. Tomorrow, I shall continue my story about the Royal Malaysian Police. We have to allow the boys in blue at least two days to absorb what I have written thus far. If we move too fast they may not be able to keep up with us.

Many don’t like me talking about Islam. They also want to know why I only ‘whack’ Islam and not any of the other religions.

In the first place, I DO NOT whack Islam. Yes, I whack Muslims. But I do not whack Islam. And I am certainly not in the business of whacking the other religions, any religion for that matter.

So why do I persistently talk about Islam? Simple, because Islam is the official religion of this country -- so Islam touches our everyday life. There is nothing we do or say that Islam does not somehow, either in a big or small way, decide whether what we do or say is allowed or forbidden.

For example, when Muslims make police reports against anyone perceived as being anti-establishment or pro-opposition, they always say it is to defend the dignity of Islam, the Malays, the Monarchy, and so on. They say that the Internal Security Act must be retained because it is needed to defend the rights of the Malays and the dignity of Islam. Every move they make, democratic or otherwise, is for the sake of Islam. Or so they argue.

So how do we separate Islam from our daily lives? A non-Muslim who has a relationship or affair with a Muslim is said to have done something wrong because the other partner is a Muslim. Non-Muslims who employ Muslims in their pubs or discos commit a crime because Muslims must not handle liquor. Non-Muslims who sell beer to Muslims commit a crime because Muslims are forbidden from drinking. Non-Muslim employees who refuse to allow their Muslim staff time off for prayers would be in trouble with the government. Non-Muslims living next door to a mosque who complain about the ‘noise’ would get death threats -- that is if they are lucky enough to escape ISA detention. And so on and so forth, the list is endless.

If non-Muslims raise any issue they would be reminded that this is a Muslim country and they do so at their own peril. They can even get detained without trial or charged for sedition for complaining about certain Islamic policies or issues related to Islam.

Malaysian politics is almost always about Islam. Malays would be told if they vote for the opposition then the Kafir (infidels) would be calling the shots. Lim Guan Eng is a Kafir who controls the Kafir government of Penang. So Malays are being subjected to a Kafir regime. Nizar may be a Muslim and from PAS, an Islamic party, but the Kafir is the real power behind the throne in Perak. Nizar is just a puppet of the Kafir. That was why he needed to be ousted even though it was done undemocratically and in violation of the Constitution. Islam comes first and democracy can be suspended or overridden for the sake of Islam.

The bottom line is, Islam is always credited -- or blamed, as the case may be -- for whatever these Malays do because they claim they are doing it in the name of Islam and for the sake of Islam. But in most cases Islam is not really the reason for their actions. What they do is not what Islam asks us to do. Islam is merely the camouflage used by these people to give legitimacy to their actions, in most instances which are anti-Islamic to start off with -- such as the ISA, NEP, and so on.

Until these people who abuse the name of Islam to cover their evil deeds and to give legitimacy to their illegal acts stop doing so, Islam will forever come under the spotlight. And until then we must also continue talking about Islam, not in an attempt to give Islam bad publicity, but so that these fakes, called Munafik in Islamic lingo, can be exposed for what they really are.

Now, I also whack non-Muslims as well. I whack those non-Muslims who try to give an impression that they are experts on Islam and then make uncomplimentary or negative statements about Islam.

These people, the non-Muslims, have never gone to a madrasah or Islamic college or university to receive tutoring in Islam. But they talk as if they have a diploma or degree in Islamic studies. Then they support their arguments with a copy-and-paste job, information they obtained from the Internet, in particular from anti-Islamic websites. And then they say, “This is the proof that Islam is no good, violent, etc.”

There are those who keep posting, over and over again, the YouTube video of a small boy allegedly being punished under Hudud law for stealing some bread. They held the small boy down and used a truck to roll over his arm. The video is not a fake. But it is a video of a magic show or something like that, not of a small boy being punished under Hudud law for stealing some bread.

In cases like these I would certainly get upset. I would never defend any cruelty to children -- especially if it is for a minor crime like stealing some bread. But this a lie being perpetuated, over and over again, about the so-called cruelty of Hudud, supported by so-called evidence, the YouTube video. How, therefore, can I allow this to pass unchallenged?

What if I were to copy-and-paste the Gospel by Barnabas and whack the Christians? Hey, I have ‘evidence’, and the ‘evidence’ is the Gospel by Barnabas. I searched the Internet and found this Gospel on one anti-Christian website. So I copy-and-paste it for my article and that now makes me an unchallenged expert on Christianity. And I now openly challenge the Bishop to a debate so that I can publicly prove that Christianity, as being practiced now, is false and that the ‘real’ Christianity is like what is mentioned in the Quran, not like what is stated in the ‘false’ Bible -- and this is proven beyond any shadow of doubt by the cut-and-paste Gospel that I have found on an anti-Christian website set up by a Muslim.

I am not saying that Islam is a sacred cow. And this is the trouble with Muslims; they want Islam to be regarded as a sacred cow. If you keep Islam personal then this would no doubt be a reasonable demand. But when Islam touches everyone’s lives, non-Muslims included, then it becomes ‘public property' and the public, non-Muslims included, have every right to comment on Islam.

But what is comment and what is insult? I can comment, but I should not insult. And this is where many do not understand the difference between the two. They feel that commenting also means the freedom to insult. And this is when the problem begins. Have you noticed that Muslims (at least learned Muslims -- although there are some stupid ones who try to comment on something they know nothing about) are very careful about commenting on other religions lest they accidentally insult the other religions?

Muslims regard the Prophets of the other religions as also Prophets of Islam. And from the beginning of time there were supposed to be 124,000 Prophets in all, according to the Muslim belief. And EVERY community has a Prophet; sometimes some communities have more than one Prophet at one time. But only 25 Prophets are mentioned by name in the Quran. This means 123,975 more Prophets are unknown. Could Buddha be one of them? Could be, who knows, since there are no names mentioned for 123,975 of the Prophets.

Only stupid and unlearned Muslims would whack the other religions. And those non-Muslims who whack Islam are also stupid and unlearned. And when you collect ‘evidence’ from anti-Islamic websites to support your arguments, then you are even more ignorant than you realise.

On another point, some non-Muslim readers like to copy-and-paste so-called Hadith to support their anti-Islam bashing. They will copy-and-paste a saying or story that is supposed to be ‘authentic’ and gleefully say, “There you are. This is the proof.”

Why do you think Muslims get upset with this cheap shot? Even amongst Muslims there are disagreements as to which Hadith are authentic and which are fakes. There are supposed to be 700,000 Hadith in all. Some Muslims accept only 7,000 of them. Others accept only 5,000. And there are some who accept only 500. Then we have those who reject the entire 700,000 and will not accept even one as authentic.

But we have these non-Muslim readers of Malaysia Today who consider themselves an authority and expert on Islam who cut-and-paste one of the disputed and not unanimously accepted Hadith and say, “There you are, this is proof that Islam sucks.”

As I said, if I were to copy-and-paste the Gospel by Barnabas and say to the Christians, “This is proof that your brand of Christianity is bullshit,” how do you think they would feel? Well, that is the same way I, as would many Muslims, feel -- a cheap shot below the belt aimed at smearing Islam in an unfair and unprofessional manner.

So you really do not know much about Islam as what you think you do. Hell, even many Muslims who think they know so much about Islam actually know very little. What they know are merely old wives tales and superstition, which they think is Islam but in reality are mere fables. So please refrain from commenting and then being very smug about it. And anti-Islam websites would be the last source I would depend on to support my anti-Islam bashing. That would be like asking Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad to say nice things about Anwar Ibrahim.

Comments (97)Add Comment
...
written by concernedinmalaysia, April 30, 2009 03:19:48
Thanks for that, I now don't know how to talk about my religion. I guess all I can do is ask questions because I know that I know very little about Islam.

But I do agree that with what you say about Islam being used, I have said it before and I don't need to be a Muslim to say it either.

Any man with eyes and ears can see and hear what those people say they are doing in the name of Islam and anyone with any brains at all can work out they are doing whatever for benefit themselves in some way. It is those people that are giving my religion a bad name while they persecute/prosecute others for daring to discuss Islam in a civil and educational manner, hence the demonisation of the blogger.

I suppose the only reason they do get away with it is because us normal god fearing people give them the benefit of the doubt that they would/should be doing what they say for the reasons they say, and we probably wouldn't have the guts ourselves to use our religion or gods name as a tool for self gain.

Anyway well said Mr RPK, I wish I had your talent to put to words what I have in my head, you thoroughly translate the truth of the matter.
report abuse
disagree 2
agree 173
...
written by wongnoball, April 30, 2009 03:51:10
Well we who are bumiputera non muslim and malay, uneducated in Islam, but the funny thing Allah have given us eyes to see the right and wrong of these Munafik muslim. We are more angry when the Munafik can be Sultan, MB, MP, PM. No need Islamic teaching to tell us mere humans what Sultan and Co have done something Obviously Morally Wrong in spite of their attempted spin. So that is why we need to Wear Black on 7 May in Perak, to show our Obvious disgust to the powers to be.

and btw..our other Anger is this conversion thing that can happen to children and people wanting out of Islam. Who the Hell these Muslim Administration people think they are. Yes those mufti, mullah, JAIS, Syriah...etc. Go migrate to Pakistan Swat valley if you so desire 100% Lunatic Syriah Laws!! Otherwise Malaysia is still a NON Islamic Country in spite of what umno and Pas wants to use Islam to lelong Islam or kick it around like a Football. We will defend the Freedom as given by Allah to Choose. There you go I am just stating the Obvious and if that is Whacking Islam, get a new Brain and glasses!!
report abuse
disagree 29
agree 130
...
written by kzai, April 30, 2009 04:14:54
Thank you RPK. I have long been longing for something like this to be written by you. Anyone could have written on this issue,including me I. But, I have to admit, few can match your writing skill. And much fewer can challenge your credibility. MT readers "worship" you, and and take in almost anything that you write on. I guess, what you write often touches the very essence of everyone's life. And as usual, you always does it brilliantly.

Let see it this time, if your magic works too. I'd like to see the reaction of those who often whacked Islam blindly. I support the negative writings/comments against wrongdoings of the Muslims. But, I feel sad and angry when someone writes against Islam or a good Muslim unscrupulously. For example, once Tuan Guru Nik Aziz was always rediculed for his stand on Islam. But, after Mac 08, people have revised their opinion on him, and PAS is getting more positive reaction from the public. So, Nik Aziz and PAS are not Taliban after all. I read from many sources, including MT readers comments, that PAS government in Kelantan is very fair in their treatment of the non Muslims. Not to say that Nik Aziz and PAS are fool proof. He is still a human, and human errs. But, I know that, pious Muslims are very down to earth. When they make make mistakes, they will repent, and ask for forgiveness, from Allah and from the people that they have transgressed. And PAS is not 100% perfect either. However I am glad, people can recognize and accept good things, even from those as branded Taliban before.

So MT readers, lets do it. If it is black, call it black. If it is red, say so. Get rid of those coloured spectacles you are wearing when looking at things. If we are really sincere in fighting for a justice society, we ourselves have to be just first. Otherwise, we will just be jumping from one kind of unjust government to another, if we ever manage to change the government!!!
report abuse
disagree 1
agree 139
...
written by SamSan, April 30, 2009 04:55:48
If we flush all the ameno goons, scumbags, parasites, leaches, rapists, con artists, sodomists and other corrupt leaders down the toilet, then and only then can we really appreciate the true meaning of being a good and humble muslim just like what was practiced by our noble prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h) and now emulated in the likes by our noble and god fearing Tok Guru, Ahmadenijad, the humble president of Iran, and a host of select few ulamas. Allah Allmighty's unbounded blessings showered on the meek and peace loving rakyat are not meant to be devoured by these scumbags. Sembahyang sebelum di sembahyankan and don't try to ridicule God's final day judgement.
report abuse
disagree 17
agree 29
...
written by fan73, April 30, 2009 05:10:25
with all the whacking on muslims in our bolehland...
you sir, remain as a Muslim.. there is something special about true Islam
May Allah guides you, me and our fellow citizens on the right path.
report abuse
disagree 5
agree 48
...
written by NIDZOM, April 30, 2009 05:13:29
to be a good and humble muslims and non muslims have nothing to do with whoever is in power. Mahatma gandhi was all that under opression. Muhammad saw , Jesus was all that and these people endured more than we are getting right now. Hell, you people still have the opportunity and time to put up nasty selfish comments complaining on how Islam is bad and such. Oppse the government, yes, cos they are in the wrong for so many reasons, and to us muslims most of it is because of their insult to our prophets and our way of life(islam) and we as muslims are opposing them as well. We know that. You know this. Don't have to wait for others to respect you when you can start first. And still not lose a thing but instead you gain more.

And to sir rpk, alhamdulillah(all praises be to Allah swt), i pray for you to be blessed always with patience under fire, courage to withstand torment and torture, and blessings from the Creator. Amin.
report abuse
disagree 4
agree 29
...
written by wongnoball, April 30, 2009 05:37:02
SamSan

ha ha ha...smilies/grin.gif smilies/cheesy.gifI was nicely agreeing until this word (Ahmadenijad - Noble/humble) came then all you wrote became RUBBISH. What sort of Brain washing you trying to Spin?? That President is a Fruit Loop, supports Mugabe & N.Korea Kim Il Jong. Sorry your type of Islam/muslim also we Malaysian cannot terima/accept. Go examine your head, repent 7 times and wash your body 9 times.

Muhammad Yunus of Bangladesh of the Grameen Bank - is the type of humble /noble muslim we Malaysian GLADLY accept with open Arms. As I said Allah have given us bumiputera Non Malay-islam-muslim special eyes. I wonder why?? Perhaps to see the Evil of giving one race, religion too much power like in military,police and to Oppose Such Regime to Death!!
report abuse
disagree 10
agree 35
...
written by SamSan, April 30, 2009 06:02:11
Hi WongnoBall,

I only meant to compare Ahmhadenijad's simple and bare life style just like our Tok Guru Nik Aziz and Lim Guan Eng who showed total humility and no excesses in wealth agrandizement. Perhaps I should have qualified it further and excluded some of the dumb founding statements that came from Ahmadenijad mouth. But for that we need to verify the veracity and truth of his statements as the American and foreign press also do their part in spinning their own news.
report abuse
disagree 3
agree 34
...
written by ylcc, April 30, 2009 06:04:17
Thank you, Raja Petra. I have understood from day 1 that you are only critizing people who profess they are Muslims, Christians, Hindus, Taoists, but do not practise their religions according to its teachings. That is why I am never offended by your articles, which are quite clear in its context. Unfortunately, there are some MT readers who are rather insensitive. These readers should remember that there are genuine Muslims, Christians, Hindus, Taoists reading their comments, and understandably they would be offended if these readers ridicule their religion instead of the offenders of the religion. All religions teach humans to be good. It is humans who become good or bad followers.
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 54
...
written by Tompios, April 30, 2009 06:07:36
Dear RPK,

Yes, we are not always right! We should admit it. But, anyway the Christians deserve to get punishment from the Muslims since the turmoils between Christians and Muslims started by (Roman/Byzantium) Christian empire.

Yes, the Christian's empire started it first!! Now, one main stream Christian did it and it effecting to all other Christians denominations until today. Islam still hate Christians in general since "Perang Salib"! Yes, indeed "Perang Salib" started by Westerner Roman Christian empire! Those who opposed the "Perang Salib" that propagated by Roman Christian empire particularly the "Easterners Christians" have been persecuted by Roman Christian. As a result, these Easterners Christians (North Africa countries including Syria, Lebanon, and many more) convert to Islam for security.

Pete, not all non-Islam commentators in M2Day are hating Islam but only focusing their comments on Malaysian Islam in general. Why? You know the answer!!
report abuse
disagree 64
agree 19
...
written by MalaysianFirst, April 30, 2009 06:13:10
For a topic as sensitive and complicating as religion, I must say, your short article is well written. Religion, all religions, carries a universal message of spreading love and peace towards both believer and non-believer. Sadly, there are many misguided followers who cannot accept this simple, yet beautiful philosophy, and impose their will on others to spread hate and destruction, all in the name of religion.

How happy God would be, if only Planet Earth is only inhabited by plants and animals and not humans.


report abuse
disagree 3
agree 18
...
written by LFLee, April 30, 2009 06:24:48
Tompios,

So you are Christian expert huh?
Stop acting like a christian expert like those who act like
Islam expert.

If Pete is a lecturer, and this article is a class, you failed
this class.

report abuse
disagree 7
agree 43
...
written by Watchdog, April 30, 2009 06:26:59
Betul. The problem is when dickheads use religion as a garment to suit any occassion they need. Just a garment - to be cast aside when not needed. smilies/angry.gif smilies/angry.gif smilies/angry.gif
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 23
...
written by NIDZOM, April 30, 2009 06:42:42
To Tompios: smilies/cry.gif smilies/cry.gif smilies/cry.gif

Malaysian1st, ur saying God didn't know better and he is unhappy? smilies/cool.gif
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 21
...
written by singam, April 30, 2009 06:45:12
Allow me to share with you a comment I made on another blog...

Breakdown in religious harmony occurs when people highlight what is different about their religion and use that difference to proclaim theirs as the only true religion.

What man should learn to do is to keep private what is different and celebrate together what is common. Then we will all become better Children of God.

After all, isn’t that what God wants of us? What God has given us is core values. The boundaries are all drawn by man. Shed those boundaries and we can all become closer to each other and to God.

All religions have more in common than we can imagine. That is because they all came from the same source. The differences emerged because each Revelation in its time was adopted and practised by a different group of people who selected different symbols and rituals which then became entrenched into the religion and, sometimes became more important than the core values.

I believe if we strip away everything that is different between religions, we will be left with the core truth - the original revelation from God.

So let us celebrate our similarities and stop fighting over our differences.
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 40
...
written by Zym Zym, April 30, 2009 07:28:17
If the world is without religions, the world may be a better place to live in. Religion could even make a learned person sounds so stupid and foolish when they start to talk and write about religion(s). Thus, what can we expect from the unlearned one. Do we need holy scriptures to remind us to do good deeds all the time? The answer is NO. The state of being good is a virtue and derived from our conscience. If someone were to tell us that he has been talking to God every night, how would we respond or if someone were to tell us that God has been talking to them every night, what would we be thinking of him? One is a religious devotee and the latter is a crazy NUT. Why? Cause you have doubt of God's existence?
report abuse
disagree 8
agree 23
...
written by Chimera, April 30, 2009 07:38:39
I agree wid RPK 100%..in dis context... It is the ppl who mislead de religion n not vice versa.. like..u hv to de wrong leader in de right govt..ufffffffffffff......
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 18
...
written by Tompios, April 30, 2009 07:45:55
smilies/grin.gif Tompios is Tompios! Just accept the fact that Christian "buat hal terlebih dahulu"!! The most important thing is, Christians should keep praying to their God for a help so that Muslims can finally forgive Christians for the mistake - mastering the "perang salib"! I do not care get grade A or F but for sure I am sick with religion conflict stuffs. Why we guys cannot reconcile ourselves with the size of fingers that we have? Looking for revenge? Until when? Pete is absolutely correct about "Only stupid and unlearned Muslims would whack the other religions. And those non-Muslims who whack Islam are also stupid and unlearned." Sarcastic commenting on people religion is my favourite issue but thing changed--I will prevent commenting which God better since yesterday.

Curing the Muslims wounds cannot be done with one article posted by RPK today. Non-Muslim especially Christians should understand why Muslims hate Us (Christians) up to now. Do not forget the history! We (Christian) triggered the Muslim hatred first. We should repent and show Christ's genuine love to our neighbour especially Muslims. If they keep hating us as a Christian than just accept it as a process of forgiveness.
report abuse
disagree 42
agree 12
...
written by malaysianohope, April 30, 2009 08:46:29
Pete,
I don't understand why people are still saying your God is greater than mine & like wise. If people just settle down & reflect on it, whether there is more than one God who created the World in the Begining. Does this make sense? Why is it in this Universe there is only one Earth? Why not more Earth like planets are discovered since there are more than one God the Creator?
Unless anyone can prove otherwise, I still think there is only one God, ie The God of Love, Wisdom, Omnipotent, Omnipresent & a Foregiving one. Perhaps God is One & He is in different form in the like of Jesus, Prophet Muhammad, Buddha & others.
TRUTH SETS YOU FREE!!!!
report abuse
disagree 1
agree 12
...
written by rpremkumar2u, April 30, 2009 08:46:38
Pete has brought upon us another notch of realization that he does not condone on people using religion as an argument, in that the majority do not possess the requisite depth of understanding. I have carried the coffin of a Muslim brother even though I was the only non-Muslim amongst the other 5 pall bearers. I have partaken the breaking of fast with fellow Muslim brethren. Religion and politics is a sensitive matter because of its nature that requires one to balance emotions and rationale. Pete is arguably one of the finest I have come across in my reading as he distinguishes that which is the content, and, that which is the parcel. To begin with I am sure he has undergone a daily routine of unabashed reflection. I have one question to pose to all those experts out there : What is the last thought you introspect before retiring for the night and the first upon awaking? Does that thought accompany you when you partake meals? That my friend, is the unique quality that differentiates between the us and the beasts. If we don't possess or profess that quality, then what is the mystery between us splitting hairs?
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 9
...
written by c53k, April 30, 2009 08:47:06
I always wonder why these bigots always shouting about ABN & not NBA. The interest of Malaysia nationhood is NOT at the top of their mind!

Now the dilemma of ABN is finally cleared.

So Agama is ahead of Bangsa, & Negara is way back at third place!

Thus patriotism has to be redefined.

This also explain why Muslim pendatangs can become citizen almost overnight while non-Muslim local-borns have their citizen status questioned.

Who has the INTEREST of Malaysia close at heart?

Bloody pariah religion masquerade! U sold out the true teachings of yr religion while gadai the nationhood of Malaysia in the name of yr bangsa.
report abuse
disagree 1
agree 13
...
written by Littlebird, April 30, 2009 08:50:42
Dear Pete, I am one of the person who posted the reference to the eight year old boy who stole some bread. However, that was the only time I think I referred to it. My apologies, though I did try to verify the pictures much earlier but I did not find anything to suggest otherwise. I guess you will only find what you want.

Urbanlegend clears the myth. See http://urbanlegends.about.com/...bread3.htm

However, that does not take away my opinion about harsh punishments in the name religion no matter what religion advocates it. No man got the right to inflict pain on others. I also advocate against dead penalty and doest it make me anti Malaysian?
report abuse
disagree 5
agree 11
...
written by Rozlan, April 30, 2009 08:55:44
AS a true religion Islam could withstand all onslaught hurled to it.However umno forbade it to show it true self through restriction imposed to both muslims and non muslims to disccused or even debated Islam..I am very sure Islam couls answer back everything given to it.

So to solve the problem umno should go because it was the one curb Islam from its true self.

I support any effort to discuss Islam I had even suggested a few titles for debate earlier.One of them was "ISLAM WAS NOT TRUE,BUDDHISM,CHRISTIANITY,HINDUISM ARE THE BEST AND MOST PERFECT RELIGIONS" or something like that..Experts from both side will be brought presenting their points through life telecast....why not ai'nt it?
report abuse
disagree 1
agree 3
...
written by Flex65, April 30, 2009 08:57:28
I know nothing about religion as I consider myself a free thinker. I pray to GOD when in need. I am Chinese so I pray to many different GOD, I pray in Hindu temple and I have also being to church. Though I have never being to a mosque. I believe in doing the right things.
I always believe that if you are good, people will accept you and you don't have to force them. You don't need laws to make them stay with you. You don't need to make it a one way ticket for those who believe in you. You don't have to tell those believe in you that those who don't are 'kafir'.
Why need all these thing? It makes me wonder is something not good in it? Can I explore? The answer is a big "NO".
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 21
...
written by MasterYoda, April 30, 2009 08:58:15
I agree with some parts and disagree with other parts....

If the Hadith has 700000 of which 7000 are accepted by some, 5000 by another group or even 500 by others... then there is a lot of flaws...

In Christianity we dont have Hundreds of thousands to begin with. We have only two major manuscripts which are contending each other. the rest are crap.

Text Receptus and the Vulgate

Text receptus stands proven and if flawless.
This is where we base the English of King James.
report abuse
disagree 20
agree 2
...
written by ilovepakatan, April 30, 2009 09:09:04
Pete,

In my opinion, every religion is the same. Just different category. Like every human being is the same, just different color, appearance, culture and so forth. So insulting another religion equals to insulting your own religion. I've even written a story about this. smilies/grin.gif
report abuse
disagree 1
agree 8
...
written by clusco, April 30, 2009 09:17:35
RPK,

Good to hear from you... and nice article indeed... Thanks... Take care yourself and please dont get catch!!! smilies/wink.gif
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 2
...
written by ahmadneil, April 30, 2009 09:17:56
Most muslims are hiding behind Islam and using this as a shield to commit all sorts of crimes and try to get away with it by saying I'm a muslim.It's as if they say this is my muslim country and I can do whatever I like.If other race try to do the same,the muslims will complain that this is not Islamic.

See those unruly muslims crowds from umno youth.They never get any permit becos they are muslims, whereas others MUST get permits to protest.I think if all malaysian 'are' muslims then this would not have happen.2 sets of rules are for one nationality.I still say this muslim gov't never show fairness,equality and transparency .They never want to cross party lines to reach out to non-muslims.
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 19
...
written by fireduck, April 30, 2009 09:17:58
Whack the craftsmen, not the craft.

Religious arguments and conflicts will never cease. That's a guarantee. Not for eons to come. Because of .... Man himself. Whatever religion you may subscribe to, if you do not find it in your heart to agree to disagree with others, then you intrinsically, are going to be party to the partisanship of your religious beliefs.

Man is the one who love to perpetuate the notion of one-upmanship, especially where the fuzzy 'believe-in-order-to-see' topic of religion is concerned. Because religion is intangible and the 'touch-and-feel' of the subject matter cannot be easily verified by an onlooker, then it will always be my belief against yours, my word against yours. How then to prove whose religion is better? In the first place, is it necessary to show whose is better? Man is the problem himself.

I am for inclusiveness, but I celebrate the variety and differences, including those who do not profess to any religions. After all, where we end up ultimately, is a journey decided between you and your Maker. What is important is whether you show compassion towards your fellow Man, and help those in need, care for those who can't (including the other creatures), and just be able to distinct between what is right and what is wrong. If you can't tell the difference, then either evil is borned into you or you are too easily manipulated .... by other Man.

report abuse
disagree 0
agree 9
...
written by slash n burn, April 30, 2009 09:21:06
Dear RPK,

This articles bring us to the big question: Who speaks for Islam?
Could it be umno, Nik Aziz, Osama, Ahmadnejad, Wahabbi, muftis, non-muslim, or you yourself, etc.? I am no fan of religious conflicts. This is an honest question, please enlighten me.
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 4
...
written by Farmer, April 30, 2009 09:31:43
Why people fight over a religion?

There is a GOD but NO religion in this world.
report abuse
disagree 5
agree 7
...
written by teo siew chin, April 30, 2009 09:31:53
"That would be like asking Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad to say nice things about Anwar Ibrahim...."
---------------

Would that not be possible and vice versa too, cos does not their religion teach them to TELL THE TRUTH ?
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 5
...
written by wildbil, April 30, 2009 09:48:05
Dear RPK,

I heard your points and noted.

Then please explain if you said Islam is peace, then why so many muslim are willing to kill in the name of Islam?

Please explain to me, if you are fair, why are you use muslim and non-muslim as context? In your eye, in this world, there is only you muslim and the rest is non muslim?

If a Christian addressed in the public by saying, we Christian and rest of you are non-Christian, I am sure he just pronounce his dead wish .....

My two sense worth.
If
report abuse
disagree 6
agree 19
...
written by lobster, April 30, 2009 09:54:49
RPK, great article.
report abuse
disagree 3
agree 5
...
written by TwilightYears, April 30, 2009 09:59:34
another well written article. You have spoken our minds and expressed our thoughts so clearly. Thanks.

One should not forget that Malay, in general, learn to recite the Holy Quran at an early age. And by the time they finished their UPSR, many of them have learned the Hadiths as well. The unfortunate thing about this is that they have not been taught the meaning as well. I met one lecturer, a Singapore Malay who professed proudly that he could recite the whole of the Quran by the age of 9, but admitted humbly that he learned Islam only when he went to Australia for his further studies and he learned Islam in English from one of the Iranian lecturers.

Well one would compliment those who can recite the Quran at such an early age, but would lament that the true meaning of those Holy Words have not been explained to these young minds. The Chinese, on the other hand, learned about the 5 classics by heart, and the teaching of Mencius and Confucious were all clearly explained in simple Chinese explaining the complicated Ancient Chinese phrases.

The difference then would be - although both the Quran and the Five Classics explained and exhorted that one should seek knowledge, Malay Muslim do not know this (as the meaning of the Language of Allah SWT was never explained to them) while the Chinese religiously go the whole way to improve their education status.

The emphasis on rote learning that deprive the young Malay Muslims from learning the true meaning has led them to believe that defending the religion is the ultimate goal of a true Muslim, even if they do not understand their religion.

In the same breath one would observe that many Non Muslims self proclaimed themselves as expert in Islam even though they make some cursory glance at an unapproved version of the Quran in English. When Confucious at an old age started to take a deeper look into one of the 5 classics, The I Ching, he lamented that had he been given another 50 years, he would not have sufficient time to delve into the inner meaning of this Book of Change. I have met many senior Malay Muslim friends who have said the same thing about the Holy Quran. The more you read the Holy Quran, the more you know how little you know.... and the seek for knowledge becomes a passion .... at an age when one is so near to the graves.

One would look forward to your future articles. Keep safe, Keep well and keep going.

There is no power nor strength save from Allah.

report abuse
disagree 1
agree 10
...
written by chanatak, April 30, 2009 10:03:20

Will christians go amok when you cut and paste gospel of barnabas ? No Christians will read, get upset and then check whether the gospel of barnabas ( or gospel of thomas, or gospel of judas, etc etc ) is true, and if it is not true, why.

Christians, or for that matter the buddhist don't go round stirring anger and spewing venom for religious slights and criticisms.

Which is the religion famous for its adherents spewing murder and venom?

report abuse
disagree 7
agree 46
...
written by lobster, April 30, 2009 10:05:55
wildbil, yes, we know there has never been any killing in the name of God. Com'on...

And what do you expect him to use then, if "muslim and non-muslim" giving you an eyesore? believer and non-believer?

gimme a break.
report abuse
disagree 2
agree 2
...
written by malgal, April 30, 2009 10:08:58
U have unjumbled the thoughts in a lot of our heads. Now clearer lah, kam siah.
Key word is munafik, the more jumbled they make us, the more power they held.
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 6
...
written by qwerty, April 30, 2009 10:17:21
GOD only said 10 sentences.

In these 10 sentences, you will find that it is all you actually need to guide you through life!
report abuse
disagree 5
agree 10
...
written by wishuponastar, April 30, 2009 10:52:30
Dear RPK,
I have just cut and pasted this and I'm a non Muslim.

"They say that the Internal Security Act must be retained because it is needed to defend the rights of the Malays and the dignity of Islam."

So they admit they need the laws (ISA) introduced by the English colonial masters (Christians) to protect the rights of the Malays and the dignity of Islam.
What kind of rights and what kind of dignity are they talking about?Shame,shame Indeed!
I have no more words not even the cut and paste type.
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 21
...
written by quietguy, April 30, 2009 11:00:58
I'm feeling a little strange. When going through RPK's various articles, sometimes I feel like their written by different people, because they have different tones to it. I don't know, maybe that's just because he's such a versatile writer? Or maybe there actually are more than one person writing using RPK's name? I suppose it's possible, since now that he's in hiding, nobody can know for certain that he really is the one writing all these articles. Maybe some day I'll compile all of RPK's writing and give them to an expert to analyse and see whether they're all written by the same person. There are experts who can do that, you know. If only I have some money to spare to pay that expert.
report abuse
disagree 16
agree 4
...
written by chrisyong, April 30, 2009 11:02:26
Hi RPK, as always, your article makes tons of sense. Better still, if you can tabulate incidences so that the not so educated police can understand. Tabulate actual practises by them against Islamic teaching.........then they know clearly they are not honouring their God!! Else, they don't even know they are not doing right but just follow instruction. Like the murderer of Mongolian girl........
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 3
...
written by Sphinx, April 30, 2009 11:04:00
Question :- What would happen when Krishna, Christ and Prophet meets?....

Answer :- They would all embrace each other and the goat,cow and camel will fight each other.

This is the problem with the followers.

"Ye Shall Know The Truth and The Truth Shall Set You Free"

-Long Live The Rakyat-
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 14
...
written by PASOK, April 30, 2009 11:04:31

Do I have to be a religious scholar before I criticise these two stupid religions called islam and christian?
You mean only very clever people like priests and imams are qualified to judge a religion?
What bullshit.
Islam and christianty are just fairy stories and it is very obvious to me.
Mohammad hears voices and thinks its God and Jesus flew in the air to heaven.
Do you really believe this nonsense?
report abuse
disagree 25
agree 21
...
written by teo siew chin, April 30, 2009 11:26:34
Quietguy - hows about YOU go underground and see whether YOUR "tone" of writing will defer?
aiya, no need lah, just have a chin-wag with PASOK and let us know how your tone is gonna be after that smilies/grin.gif
report abuse
disagree 1
agree 6
...
written by teo siew chin, April 30, 2009 11:27:29
PASOK - it's all about HOPE.
report abuse
disagree 2
agree 4
...
written by mucking fuddled, April 30, 2009 12:10:13
since time immemorial, religions have been a handy tool used by kings, emperors, highpriests, medicine man, government, men in power to manipulate and scare their subjects and the masses to succumb to their rule...
religion and politics is a potent mix, it can bring down a whole empire once fanatics and extremists take roots...
whatever religion one profess it ought to be personal, between you and your maker, and HE does not need you to give your life to defend him, that, he can accomplish himself almightily, thank you very much...
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 18
...
written by ASK4u, April 30, 2009 12:13:03
"What man should learn to do is to keep private what is different and celebrate together what is common. Then we will all become better Children of God"
Well said Singam.

Tompios said:
Just accept the fact that Christian "buat hal terlebih dahulu"!! The most important thing is, Christians should keep praying to their God for a help so that Muslims can finally forgive Christians for the mistake - mastering the "perang salibCheck

Tompios,please explain this; on the basis of the available historical evidence, a noted historian K.S. Lal in his book ‘Growth of Muslim population in Medieval India’ concluded that about 60 to 80 million Hindus died between 1000 and 1525 CE as a result of the Islamic invasion of India. He estimated that about 2 million people died during Mahmud of Ghazni’s invasions of India. So Tompios, just as you said; siapa "buat hal terlebih dahulu"?

I believe, we should let bygones be bygones and stop pointing fingers at each other and learn to forgive and forget. Tompious seem to be angry with something that happened long before his great-great-great-great...great grandfather was born.

I think too much of religion talk. Here is a link to a nice article on 'god spot': http://cas.bellarmine.edu/tiet...page_2.htm
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 11
...
written by cruzeiro, April 30, 2009 12:22:03
Pete,
Some people still don't get it, even when you spell it out.
I suggest you write an article specifically addressing "experts" like PASOK, chanatak & Tompios ..... smilies/grin.gif smilies/grin.gif smilies/grin.gif
report abuse
disagree 2
agree 3
...
written by hellosunshine, April 30, 2009 12:44:41
RPK, all you wrote for and against Islam muslim is fine and dandy. The problem is majority (?) of Malaysian muslims do not allow or discourage their children from mixing with non muslim children because they eat pork, visiting each others' homes, don't patronize non muslim outlets, etc. Also, why are the problems like mat rempits, gays (males and females), bosiah, unemployable graduates, etc mainly infecting one race only? Why must Malaysians of other religions be sensitive to the religious practises of Malaysian muslims but almost non existent vice versa? All these are the result of umno's 52 years of ketuanan melayu and umno's religious crap which had divided the country thru racial and religious lines. When can they all wake up and join the human race? smilies/tongue.gif
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 14
...
written by Tompios, April 30, 2009 12:53:27
smilies/grin.gif hehehe..no need special article for me Cruzeiro...i don't against RPK's article smilies/grin.gif
_________________________
ASK4u,

I do not touch anything about Islam and Hindu. Please, do not ask me about Islam-Hindu tragedy in India. What I mean is, the trauma left by Western Christian to Islam in Crescent land. The Western Christian soldiers fought like crazy and forgot the truest teaching of Christian during crusade wars. Muslim get traumatized with Crusade incidents. A bit glimpse of information of Crusade concept or nature that propagated by Western Christians.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crusade

Yes, the Muslim soldier conquered Jerusalem and Byzantium but still it was nothing to do with truest teaching of Christian.


report abuse
disagree 8
agree 0
...
written by Tompios, April 30, 2009 13:01:01
addition, yes, muslim soldier conquered Jerusalem and Byzantium but still it was nothing to do with truest teaching of Christ for Western Christian declared a war to Islam.

http://history-world.org/crusades.htm

religion and culture are comparable with bloodshed through the crusade campaign.
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 1
...
written by Admiral Tojo, April 30, 2009 13:05:08
GOD again spoke to me last night. He said,

1 Be kind to your parents
2 Do not cheat
3 Do not lie
4 Do not corrupt the Earth
5 Do not kill
6 When you trade, be equitable and fair
7 When you govern, be fair, transparent and accountable
8 Look after this World as you are the custodian on behalf of GOD
9 All people are equal in the eyes of GOD
10 USE YOUR COMMON SENSE AT ALL TIMES
11 Speak to me and I will hear you, as I am not associated with anything, Mullahs, Priests, Rabbiis, Monks, Sultans and what have you included.

Now, when you ponder, do you really need Religions to tell us all the above?

Muslims - Those who are at peace, Islam - Peacefulness, Blissfulness. If you attempt to live your lives following the above guidelines, the chances are you will be at peace. Bear in mind that the state of peace is a dynamic thing. You will have to constantly strive to do all the above, in your daily lives, everyday till you expire.

The problem is, most of us, say one thing and do another. This is called hypocrisy. Munafeeqs. What we see now, is the great hypocrisy of those in power, claiming that they represent a certain belief, which is above others, and that their believe asks of them to do all the above if not more, and yet in the same breath they do the opposite. The abuse of power, the contempt for the Federal Constitution, endemic corruption and the list go on and on. THIS IS HYPOCRISY.

As usual, good write up Pete. Hope people will wake up.
Got to go now,GOD is on Skype.

Shalom
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 21
...
written by Tompios, April 30, 2009 13:11:45
am wrong here, i suppose to focus non-muslim (christian)and Islam only. sorry guys, other than christians excluded in my conversation, actually.
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 0
...
written by justinlian, April 30, 2009 13:15:52
Well say,
Most people doesnt even know what a religion teaches.
They can pray, Chant and sing like a parrot but when you ask them what the book teaches, they will look at you blank or some will say it teaches how to be good to your own religion but never to others and there where the things goes wrong.
Most prophets must be thinking they are the only religion in their world.
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 3
...
written by apa jadi, April 30, 2009 13:28:11
written by malaysianohope,

...Why is it in this Universe there is only one Earth? Why not more Earth like planets are discovered since there are more than one God the Creator?
Unless anyone can prove otherwise, I still think there is only one God...

----------------------------------

What has this to do with RPK's article? But since you wrote this, I comment your statement.

1) How big is the universe?
2) Scientists have just discovered a planet 2.7 times that of earth that contains life supporting water. It is 20 light years away.
3) Speed of light is 3x10^8 meter/seconds. One light year is 9,460,730,472,580.8 km.
4) How are we going to reach these planets to prove the non existence of other civilisation with present technology and this classical mathematical method?
5) Have you heard of the much said space warp? Meaning that we can only travel to these planet when technology advances to travelling through another dimension.
6) Hence, don't be so sure there is no civilsation beyond the earth. ->Nicolaus Copernicus was forced to retract his theory on the sun being the centre of the solar system, by the once powerful and orthodox Catholic church. -> How long will we know the answer to the universe?

Meanwhile, we satisfy ourselves with the God theory until science prove it otherwise. But, no point fighting over religion.
report abuse
disagree 1
agree 8
...
written by apa jadi, April 30, 2009 13:30:48
Tompios,

Aiyaa....another one. If religion is about hate and bloodshed, then don't take up a religion. Does you god teaches you to hate and kill others?
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 9
...
written by alarcarte, April 30, 2009 13:38:34
By Rozlan: I support any effort to discuss Islam I had even suggested a few titles for debate earlier.One of them was "ISLAM WAS NOT TRUE,BUDDHISM,CHRISTIANITY,HINDUISM ARE THE BEST AND MOST PERFECT RELIGIONS"....

Hello Rozlan, I don't think any Buddhist, Hindus will debate on whether their respective religion is the best. Throughout my whole life I never heard any of them saying their religions are the best except a couple of odd Muslims that mentione Islam is the best. Some odd ball Christians might want to take up the debate though.
report abuse
disagree 1
agree 13
...
written by cruzeiro, April 30, 2009 13:38:59
Man by nature are social & spiritual beings – and therefore, “religion” is a necessary evil in philosophy and statecraft, as it provides a “point of reference” - in a “higher authority” beyond man.
While the intentions of most religions may be the same, their methods are quite different - depending upon the dominant culture/civilization which dictates the ideology.
While many these days see religions as fairy tales, they may not see how the "concept" of religion has helped man evolve from their barbaric way in ancient times. Kings of old saw the need for religion in giving man "HOPE" and "laws from a higher authority" for the sake of legitimacy in the eyes of the people.

That is why we have had Divine/God-kings (or the so-called "berdaulat" in Malay), complete with tales of “miracles” to hoodwink the ignorant masses and instill fear in them.
The "ruling class" who become the symbols of "godliness" however, more often than not, scorn the concept of religion and "God"- which to them are simply instruments of statecraft, used to manipulate the masses into submission or fire them up into a frenzy for political reasons. It is because of this that we often see them leading opulent & decadent lives – away from the glare of public eyes – while the masses toil away.

Fairy tales or not, all civilizations of had religious foundations or orders/laws upon which their society was built, and that determined their progress - using science & technology.
They however only survived as long as the dominant philosophy/religion/school of thought in the state remained relevant according to the times - and whole civilizations collapsed when they became dogmatic and/or backward looking, and advocated stagnation or refrained from evolving.
The same fate awaits all known religions of today, should they tread the same road taken by failed ideologies of past kingdoms.

Despite all these, one has to admit there are forces beyond our comprehension that work in mysterious ways. Science & technology can only reveal small amounts over time - and the states which embrace ideologies which advocate its progress the most (through education) will eventually win the battle of ideas.
This is a fact in history no matter how true one may believe his faith is.

Most people think that you can "find" God/peace/truth/humanity/love (call it what you like) through prescribed religion/ rituals, when the truth is you achieve that through spirituality, faith and wisdom.
These are people who do things for rewards in the afterlife (whatever that means) & treat "God" as a businessman who trades for praises/worship/dressing. "God" & religion is as simple as that to them.

No amount of holier/truer-than-thou scripture reading, praying, laws/rules, finger-pointing or politics of "religion" is going to help those who believe in the former - in fact without the latter, it becomes the prescription for trouble (as was seen throughout history).
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 10
...
written by miwaki, April 30, 2009 13:43:32
Gotama the Buddha is definitely not one of the prophets,if Buddha were one of them,Buddha would have informed his disciples.In true Buddhism,Budhism is the education of Gotama the Buddha,it's not a religion though it has become one due to passing of time ( 3000 years after the parinibbana of the Buddha )

Buddha did not ask his disciple to learn from gods,he requested his disciples and followers to learn from him until they attain enlightenment.
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 10
...
written by Margeemar, April 30, 2009 13:54:36
IKIM says One must know, for example, that free­dom of religious conversion en­­shrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is antithetical to Islam.
Islam has its own way of dealing with such an issue...More http://margeemar.blogspot.com
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 0
...
written by densemy, April 30, 2009 14:01:31
An insult is only an insult in the mind of the insulted. And you cant insult an inanimate object like a religion... nor a dead person

Dont go on about non muslims not being able to understand Islam because not being amongst the indoctrinated they can see right through the Islamic hoax. In reality there are very few muslims who understand their own religion. They can rattle off phrase after phrase like well trained monkeys when you press the right button. But knowing is not understanding

The only people who really understand Islam are the royals and parliamentarians who use Islam to manipulate the mindless masses... and of course the Islamic educators who use Islam to repress and manipulate their followers using fear as their prime tool of indoctrination

Of course they will all tell you (tongue in cheek) that is all for your own good.

report abuse
disagree 1
agree 13
...
written by Mirage, April 30, 2009 14:12:47
RPK says

And those non-Muslims who whack Islam are also stupid and unlearned. And when you collect ‘evidence’ from anti-Islamic websites to support your arguments, then you are even more ignorant than you realise.



I think the statement above is too general for ppl who are considered stupid and unlearned esp when the whole world can see where the problem countries and terrorist are coming from. Its not difficult to see that there is an issue in the interpretation of the Quran by some and hence the statement is not for all.
Sorry RPK I think you are whcking below the belt on this one.
report abuse
disagree 2
agree 5
...
written by Mapel101, April 30, 2009 14:15:25
RPK, this is one good argumentative points.
smilies/grin.gif
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 0
...
written by Zym Zym, April 30, 2009 14:18:07
You pray to God but has he talk to you in person? No? Well, God speaks to me in person every night. I feel good. Hei, what's wrong with that? Can't it be a 2-way communications? God speaks to me not you. God instructed me to tell you guys that he doesn't exist. He wants you guys to get on with your everyday life and do good deeds without any expectation of good return in this life and after death.
report abuse
disagree 4
agree 9
...
written by Admiral Tojo, April 30, 2009 14:36:52
Zym Zym,
great to know that GOD talks to you too, a two way conversation. GOD also told me the same thing i.e. he does not exist as presented by ALL Religions. When we look at the Universe, we see a certain structuredness . What is this structuredness? This structuredness does not need a horse to ride on, does not need a house, does not need a priesthood and certainly does not need sycophantic acts to be performed on ITS behalf.

Yes, get on with your lifes doing GOOD deeds without expecting any returns, period. Absolutely.

Shalom
report abuse
disagree 2
agree 10
...
written by clarity, April 30, 2009 15:22:11
I think umno is using the religion for political motives rather than giving Islam the reverence as in other Islamic countries. When you are told that you cannot say this and you cannot say that, what it means is that the govt. can do no wrong even though a wrong has obviously being done. In addition it means we are not allowed to think or speak. All this will be taken care for us. That's why we have trouble with the constitution and frogs. Do we need to protect religion? No, I don't think so because it has existed long before and will stll be gere even after we are gone.
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 2
...
written by densemy, April 30, 2009 15:30:30
Sheesh Zym Zym and Admiral... how come you guys are so lucky to be on one-to-one terms with god/gods/godesses

I do all those things in your list , and no gods ever talk to me. Maybe its cos they are happy with the sort of guy I turned out to be

With no help from any god
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 6
...
written by Sparrow, April 30, 2009 15:36:51
Interesting and thought-provoking, as always.

"I am not saying that Islam is a sacred cow. And this is the trouble with Muslims; they want Islam to be regarded as a sacred cow. If you keep Islam personal then this would no doubt be a reasonable demand. But when Islam touches everyone’s lives, non-Muslims included, then it becomes ‘public property' and the public, non-Muslims included, have every right to comment on Islam."

Very very well said. On one hand, it seems a little bit unreasonable to be charging the non-muslim for 'leading' the muslim into 'sin' (drinking, gambling etc) - on the other, since the law is such, I agree that non-Muslims have every right to comment on Islam. Be that as it may, a wise, prudent person would refrain from commenting too much on a matter on which he/she knew very little.

The bottom line in all these religious issues, though; the proof of the pudding, so to speak, is - "How do you live your life?" One sees faith lived out by good deeds, and God's hands are seen and felt in the hands we stretch out to help.
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 2
...
written by Wave33, April 30, 2009 15:37:08
I seldom talk about religious matters, that is an individual right to worship a stone or TDM, a mortal with sins to his name. Of course, they are certain positive matters that I would like to highlight on each religion and sometimes the lawmakers are hypocrite themselves on their religious guidance.

Example, I know I will get flaming for this. Malaysia practice with accordance to Islamic teaching. One of the benefits which most MCP like to echo is about having four wives. Apparently, Malaysian civil law do not allow polygamy. How do you explain this hypocrisy and selective law enforcement?

report abuse
disagree 0
agree 2
...
written by sampalee, April 30, 2009 15:37:39
Religions believes there is a Truth.Free thinker believe there is no such Truth.The Truth upon realisation is beyond believe or disbelieve.All scriptures are expedients pointing to Source.
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 1
...
written by singam, April 30, 2009 15:41:21
miwaki wrote "Gotama the Buddha is definitely not one of the prophets,if Buddha were one of them,Buddha would have informed his disciples.

I hope my response does not offend any Buddhists. It should not, but can never tell.

The Hindu perspective is that the Supreme Power interacts with the material realm through 3 pathways...

1. The creative energy that gave rise to the material realm,
2. The preservational energy that manifests in the form of living persons to guide mankind,
3. The transformational energy that sustains the dynamics of the cosmos.

You would have encountered these energies being described as manifested beings with specific names. But that is merely another perspective. What is important is the universality of this trinity Supreme Spirit.

Every person born is invested with the preservational energy. Some few realise their true self and are able to share their enlightenment with others. Some others also realise themselves but remain within themselves and do not start missions that go on to become religions. The vast majority remain oblivious of their true nature and become enmeshed in maya.

Gautama was an enlightened soul who had a message of truth that succeeded in transforming a part of the world for a period of time. Unfortunately, as with all institutionalised religions, Buddhism too suffers from ritualism and distraction from the noble path.

Hindus recognise the Buddha as one of the primary avatars of the preservational energy also known as Vishnu, who was born in the flesh as as Rama and Krishna. Other religions know of him by other names, some known to us and many unknown to us.
report abuse
disagree 3
agree 2
...
written by Admiral Tojo, April 30, 2009 15:50:25
Densemy,
GOD spoke to you, but not as described by Religions.

Uncle Sampalee, Free thinkers believe in the Truth, the Universal truth, not truths as presented by Religions.

I am a Freethinker because thinking is indeed free.

Shalom
report abuse
disagree 1
agree 5
...
written by johntyc, April 30, 2009 15:59:03
Nice whack. Very fair whack. Now, umnoBN and konco-konco sekalian, don't you all ever try using Islam to frame RPK again! This tactic using religion to frame anyone at all disgust me! smilies/angry.gif
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 2
...
written by Tompios, April 30, 2009 16:05:46
smilies/grin.gif as for me, i still need opium (religion) to stop my blood-genetic to take someone head for a dowry. the spirit of borneo --the head hunter spirit-- thick still. yes, Jesus' teachings has given me PEACE and FREEDOM! No more head hunting! No more head for dowry. No more headless done by Borneon in Sabah!
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 2
...
written by justinlian, April 30, 2009 16:11:28
Can Someone put a stop on all these gods thing ?
RPK, you started all these, can you stop all these gods , themselves ?
If there is god, do you think all politician will dare to put all those evil things ?
They themselves are gods to you all and all the unnecessary NGO are the followers.
Wake up everyone, try to learn to be a good human being to all.
Learn how to be compasionate, free from hatred and greed and lust.
Take care of our parents as they are the one who give us a life to live and feed us.
Come to think of that, they are the gods.
Have a nice day.
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 3
...
written by truthvoice, April 30, 2009 16:12:10
Yes, those muslims thinks they are more holy than anyone, and they think they are one with god, if we oppose their thinking means we oppose god? They keep saying all human are servant of god, but in their mind, they are god.
report abuse
disagree 1
agree 1
...
written by A MI, April 30, 2009 16:41:26
RPK,
thanks for this buzz-off article. The lesser we speak about Muslims (who are simply the worst examples of the tenets of the religion) the better.

Pity the signboard as you enter Mekah is in English. "Do not judge the religion by the beahviour of the people". Otherwise, had it been in Malay there is a remote chance that the Muslims in Malaysia would start behaving in a manner that they do not bring disrepute to the religion.

Can't wait for tomorrow's article smilies/grin.gif
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 2
...
written by Vera, April 30, 2009 16:44:47
Respect all religions. Study the teachings of other religions if you have the opportunity. Do not compare and contrast.

ANYONE can go to HEAVEN, just be GOOD.
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 12
...
written by Edward C, April 30, 2009 17:04:58
In Chinese language, the 3 largest religion is Islam, Christainity and Buddhism. In the chinese language the word "Gaou" means religion. It also means "teach".

Teach is a word which is always associated with "teacher". If the teacher is bad, he/she teaches bad things. If the teacher is good then he/she will teach good things.

Taking it as similar to a mathematical equation:-

Religion = "Gaou"
Gaou = Teach
Teach = Teacher
Teacher = priest, imam, rabbi, monks, nuns etc etc etc

bad teacher = bad religion
good teacher = good religion

in this formula, Religion is just a subject!!!! whether it is good or it is bad, depends on the teacher. Now isn't that some food for thoughts?
report abuse
disagree 2
agree 7
...
written by Loh, April 30, 2009 17:16:38
Whack Muslims all you like if they pretend, or genuinely tried to defend the religion. It is because the religion is too big for any follower to defend, and in the process of defending the religion, quarrel and war might start. Whack followers of other religions also if they pretend or genuinely tried to defend their religions, for the same reason.

Religion is a private matter between the follower and the God. I believe that all religions intend their followers to be good, to the society they live, and to prepare to qualify for good life in their afterlife. Whether a person has practised the religion to the satisfaction of his God is not a matter for fellow human beings.
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 3
...
written by Aizad 234, April 30, 2009 17:30:48
Yeah ,stop insulting Islam. Just insult umno's Islam. I fear that if this insulting trend going on, Pakatan Rakyat is meaningless. And i fear if this trend go on, the malay wouldnt hesitate to use their keris then another 13May is going to happen.and when this happen, we are too late. yeah i know, the chinese have kongfu,the indian has kalaripayat,but once Islam is insulted heavily, malay would run amok,and they dont care if they die. And Islam taught us to die for Islam.And that time, i wouldnt surprise if we have a malay suicide bomber...but for now, im against umno's Islam.Let us respect other reigion.for 50 years, it was umno who taught the Malay to discriminize other religion. So let us put stop on that. Just make Islam in our heart and dont politicized it. For me sometimes, Islam in Malaysia can be seen as a business entity. Like Ubat gigi Islam, makanan Islam,Perkampungan Islam Hadhari, Perbankan Islam and blabla... wtf?.. stop use Islam as bznz strategy...
report abuse
disagree 2
agree 7
...
written by lohfk, April 30, 2009 17:30:56
Since this topic regarding Islam is brought up...I being a chinese have this question in mind for a long time, ie :

The usage of this phrase "alhamdulillah (all praises be to Allah swt)".

I realize it was commonly used in reply to questions where we praise the Lord/Allah for the existing good state we or another person is in. Correct me if I am wrong. Another incident where this phrase is also commonly use is when one burp.

According to a muslim Kuwait friend of mine, he stress, "You don't praise Allah for allowing air from your stomach to come out through the mouth in a noisy way . If you do, you should do the same when you allow air to release from your bowel through your rear end." He again stress, "If you want to praise Allah for allowing you to be able to feed yourself, praise him before your meal [ Baca Doa ]. Why praise Allah, only when you feed yourself to the maximum.

These are replies from some of my Malaysian muslim friends regarding the "burping" :
- we praise Allah for allowing us to live instead of choking to death
- not too sure, everyone seems to be doing it
- we are taught to do so during our "mengaji" days

Not intended to be offensive. Could some learned please enlighten me on this.
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 0
...
written by dusunbukit, April 30, 2009 18:47:54
well done RPK. i couldn't agree more.

you may say what you like about your God, but I am my own God and nothing anyone can do about it and of course I'm much better than most of those who sleep and eat in their woshipping premises..

report abuse
disagree 0
agree 1
...
written by born2reign, April 30, 2009 18:51:57
Haiyo, this topic is basi already. There's one and only one reason why umno is filing police report against opposition's Muslims.

umno has no freakin idea on how to turn the economy around, other than printing money and fattening themselves with 30%. Yes, in order to get govt grants, you pay 30% to the (Malay-Muslim) agent who help you to approve the grant. Just one of many examples. This is Islamic banking/financing for you.

In order to divert all our attention from Najis' no-solution policies from his new cabinet, he's making us all chase after the red hering. So now police are involved in finance too, come to think of it.

There are Muslims who live like Pharasees and Sadducees, just like the Jews who are too rich and too learned to accept humble Jesus the Carpenter. And these are the Muslims who will sell off their own kind, coz they are too powerful to destroy, or so they think.

So each time umno starts filing police report against opposition Muslims and Muslim converts, go debate w/umno on financial and economic solution for the inflation, stagnation, Valuecap, financial stimulus, business approval TAT, minister KPIs (bet they are still scratching their heads what KPIs are), poverty levels in Sabah and Sarawak.

Of course with corky Mahatahi, it's the crooked bridge that will save the day. Another 30% "fees" project.
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 1
...
written by Oasis, April 30, 2009 19:32:41
hmm.. the sentence saying Buddha could be a prophet crossed my mind a few times..
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 2
...
written by charcoy feng, April 30, 2009 19:38:55
Dear Abang Pete,

It's really sad that there still a lot of idiots who don't understand what the hell you are trying to tell. Must be really dissapointed. Especially the amount of effort and risk taken to educate some morons. A lot of the comments are not on par with the level of intelligence produce by the articles..... Let's just hope and pray.
report abuse
disagree 3
agree 3
...
written by lynn, April 30, 2009 19:57:05
Buddha is just another human being like all of us mortals. But he is special because he found enlightenment. Buddhism is most definitely NOT a religion. It is more of a way of life; it has many really good teachings which I was shocked recently to learn some church in PJ had even "adopted" these teachings & preached them in the church.

In all my decades of youth, I have never come across any church preaching some of Buddha's teachings. I don't think the Buddhists would mind if they found out. As long as it benefits mankind in the proper way.

It's not easy for anyone to become a Buddhist - a real one. I have come across some of these real Buddhists, they are like saints in real life, so patient, so un-judgmental, so un-racist, so kind & so humble - to me that's sub-human!

There are only two religions in the whole world - Islam & Christianity. Both profess belief in an Almighty God that He created the world. That is a very very huge claim to make that a God created everything in the universe.

Personally, I find this claim cannot be challenged because it is unprovable.
report abuse
disagree 1
agree 2
...
written by Anti Relon, April 30, 2009 19:58:29
Why are you people jumping up and down regarding religion.
There is no mr god and no religion.
Religion was created by man/woman.
If there are no people there would be no mr god or religion.
If MT stops writing about religion and mr god, people will forget both.
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 2
...
written by Milo, April 30, 2009 20:56:57
If all the corrupt muslim leaders today were to sincerely repent, will they go to heaven or still end up in hell? On the other hand, if all the non-corrupt leaders not of the Islamic faith dies, will they end up in heaven or hell? What is Islam answer to the two questions?

All religious claims of truth that are authentic should not be afraid to be examined. This is especially if the claims include declaring that followers of other religion will end up eternally to suffer in hell fire. Is there really such a cruel God or is the idea man-made?

Even though the existence of God cannot be proven or disproven, it does not mean the probability of his existence is an even 50-50. There are sufficient evidence today to demonstrate the profile of the Abrahimic God is not tenable. He seems incredibly cruel and all merciful at the same time! Know the future (for sure) and yet gives us free will to change what is unchangeable! If God knows the future, how can it be changed by free-will? If I am destined for Hell, how can I have the free-will to change my faith? You cannot have it both ways?

Proof? Do you believe in the Sun God? And why not? Can you prove he does not exist? If you can't disprove him, does it mean there is a 50-50 chance he exist? Ponder!

Indeed, as some have stated in this post, I find the buddhist teaching closest to science in approach to truth seeking more than another other religions. You are allowed to question its tenets and not just follow them blindly. You don't end up in heaven or hell or anywhere else just because of your beliefs; but by your conduct. True or not, such a teaching sounds fairer and makes more sense.
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 3
...
written by ASK4u, May 01, 2009 00:59:27
Singam,
Food for thought. No insult meant towards Hinduism or any other religion. My apologies to those who find this arid.

One of the best known figures in the history of Indian thought, Shankara has been credited with restoring the study of Vedas, especially Advaita Vedanta and he is also widely regarded as an accurate expounder of the Upanishads.

Ramanuja, the founder of the Visistadvaita Vedanta School and other orthodox Hindu schools, including some present day’s scholars, believe that Shankara is a crypto-Buddhist.

Govindapada is his direct master and Gaudapada is Govindapada’s master. It is believed that Gaudapada is an enlighten Buddhist master. Prior to Shankara, Hindu saints and sages don’t wear ochre/saffron robe and don’t shave their head bald. In recorded history, the concept of Ahimsa is believed to have been first expounded by Buddha and/or Mahavir. For reason only known to him, it’s rather unfortunate and sad that Shankara didn’t openly acknowledge or credit the source, i.e., Buddha for this and many others. Even the negation method of “neti-neti” in advaita Vedanta is similar to the “not-self” method of Buddha. Take note, Buddha didn’t say “no-self”, he said “not-self”.

It’s said that after enlightenment, Buddha refused to teach. He reasoned that a run-of-the-mill person will not be able to understand, let alone, assimilate and put his teachings into practice. It’s said that lord Brahma finally succeeded in persuading him to teach. The rituals we see in the temples are not Buddha’s teachings per say. When Mahayana met Taoism (China), the rituals came into existence. It’s the same with Tibetan Buddhism which is a mixture of Buddhism and Hindu Tantra. It’s not so easy to understand Buddha’s teaching. Unadulterated Buddhism which is devoid of rituals and worship and as taught by Buddha, is a dynamic meditative tradition requiring great presence of mind and observation. Even, ‘The Noble Eightfold Path’ has got a deeper significance; only a skillful and serious ‘meditator’ would understand. Even Maharishi Patanjali, the compiler of Yoga Sutras, is believed to be a Buddhist master.

report abuse
disagree 1
agree 1
...
written by Whatif, May 01, 2009 03:42:14
Yes, what if the shoe was on the other foot, people would then realise the folly of their words or actions. Therefore, to prevent this, it is always wise to put ourselves in the other's shoes before we speak or act out our convictions.

If at all possible, it would be ideal that what one speaks or does, would appear fair and just from both sides of the divide.

Take this topic of religion. It would be difficult to talk highly of one's religion without putting other religions in a lesser light. How would one project his/her beliefs without hurting the feelings of others? When Muslims declare Islam is the only true religion, others would feel alienated. When Christians declare that the only way to heaven is through belief in Jesus Christ, others would feel withdrawn. What approach would be best when discussing religion?

For me, I would use the "what if" approach. I would ask the Christians whatif, at the end of your life, you were to find that Jesus were not the way, the truth and the life? Would you still consider your life well-lived with no regrets? If you do, then continue believing. For the Muslims, I would ask whatif, Allah were non-existent and Mohammed were not the last prophet, would you still practise the 5 pillars of the faith without regrets? Would you still insist on the death penalty for apostasy?

Enough food for thought for the day.

Shalom/Peace to all.
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 1
...
written by singam, May 01, 2009 06:13:09
ASK4u wrote, "Singam, Food for thought. No insult meant towards Hinduism or any other religion.

No reason for me or anyone else who understands Hinduism to feel insulted.

Hinduism is only the label used by the British to categorise those people who were neither Christian nor Muslim. There is no single religion called Hinduism. There are many schools of thought and rituals of worship that emerged over the millenia. They all collectively constitute the Sanathana Dharma - Sanathana translates as eternal; Dharma is more complex but roughly equates Pathway or Purpose of Living.

Siddhartha Gautama was born into a "Hindu" household. He became a yogi and sought inwards to discover his true self. When he achieved Buddham, he did not declare that he was no longer a Hindu. He did not found a new religion. Those open-minded Dharmans had no difficulty with accepting his teaching as a continuation of the Sanathana Dharmam.

Unfortunately, the theocrats of the various schools of ritual Hiduism felt threatened by the Buddha and persecuted his followers, who were forced to band together and fight for their survival. They were referred to as Buddhists (in whatever local language)... an yet another religion was born.

Mahayana Buddhism sought to codify the Buddha's teachings to make them simpler for ordinary people. In the process, the religion became ritualised. The Theravada Buddhists found their own way to ritualise the practises. In the midst of all that, there remains a core group that still emulate Gautama and seek Buddham. These are the true yogins.

With every religion, there is always a small group who seek the inward path. In some religions, they are ignored, in others they are ostracised and even persecuted. In a rare few, such inward seekers are revered and honoured.

Whatever the religion, the inward seekers discover convergence. Because when you seek inwards, the false outer layers are shed and you are left with the core Truth that is God.

Peace.
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 3
...
written by Zym Zym, May 01, 2009 08:30:10
Singam, I enjoy reading your comment but would it be better if you could find an alternative to the word "God" such asBeing (...the core Truth of our existence)?
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 1
...
written by ASK4u, May 01, 2009 11:17:49

    written by singam, May 01, 2009 06:13:09
    No reason for me or anyone else who understands Hinduism to feel insulted./quote]

    True Theravada is close to my heart. For some, they may find it dry, devoid of rituals. Here is a link to a free ebook which, supposedly Buddha himself has said, formed the heart of his message: the Wings to Awakening (bodhi-pakkhiya-dhamma.
    http://www.accesstoinsight.org/lib/authors/thanissaro/wings/index.html


report abuse
disagree 0
agree 1
...
written by Milo, May 01, 2009 12:08:34
Basically, what Singam said was, "Truth is Truth; rubbish is rubbish, whatever the coating of a label you put on your belief will not alter the essence of it."

I agree!
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 1
...
written by Blackgiring, May 01, 2009 13:23:19
..RPK...this is holly-shit!!!!!!! or perhaps holly-cow!!!!!!!!!!
report abuse
disagree 0
agree 0