Posted by Jonah Strummer on November 17, 1999 at 20:35:19:
In Reply to: Religion posted by punkboy on November 17, 1999 at 20:27:38:
: Any thoughts on religion, anyone?
Not sure what you're looking for, but here's take number one. Religion can be very sketchy. Whereas it can be the basis for goodwill and charity, it has also been justfication throughout history for war, discrimination, and murder. So, what do I personally think? You have to be careful with it. I think religion can be a good thing. I consider myself to be a Christian, not the most hardcore by any means, but an American Baptist is my denomination. Why I think a lot of punk music is oftentimes anti-religion, and why I think "Christian punk" is almost an oxymoron is that punk has always aimed towards questioning and doubting establishments in society. Religion is a definate establishment, many people follow it blindly, and I dont think thats what say, Jello Biafra is too thrilled about. There are many religions which are open and accepting of people different from themselves, it is these that I can fully understand, and I believe in equality of all as well. Where religion and I part ways is when Jerry Falwell or some other ass denounces lifestyles and opinions other than his own. Religion should not be a basis for us as people to judge others, we aren't God, or Allah or Buddha or whatever. Where it promotes good deeds and whatever, I am all for it. But if religion begins to create a holier-than-thou attitude, I think we can do with out it.
Those are my thoughts anyway.
Jonah Strummer