|
tweakabelle -> RE: I hope that dumbass preacher in fl is proud of himself (4/2/2011 5:24:13 PM)
|
At first glance, the actions of Jomes and the mullahs - one burnt a book, the others whipped a mob of illiterate peasants into a murderous frenzy - seem far apart. They are connected in that the latter was a direct consequence of the former. There are a number of other similarities between the Pastor Jones and the Afghani mullahs that are striking.
*Both were well aware of the possible consequences and probable outcomes of their actions.
*Both derive their authority from "holy books" and occupy similar positions of prestige in their respective communities.
*Both betrayed the trust their communities gave them.
*Both were professing outrage at the antics of the other.
*Both appealed to the lowest common denominator.
*Both resorted to violence to make their points.
*Both incited hate, directing that hate towards political targets for their own ends.
*Both were cynically manipulating their audiences for blatantly political purposes.
*Both achieved outcomes that are entirely destructive.
*Both will in all likelihood escape the prosecution they so richly deserve.
One came from a tradition that emphasises 'love', the other 'peace'. Does it matter which was which? Can anyone find any love or peace in the actions of any one involved in this sad episode? What do all these similarities tell us? Are Jones and the mullahs mirror images of each other? Why do religions seem to end up as the opposite of their intended goals so often?
There's another sad irony too. The location of the massacre, Mazar-I-Sharif is said to produce the world's finest quality hashish. So there is another level on which the inhabitants of that region and many Westerners can find some common ground. And very peaceful mutually beneficial common ground too. But, of course, that's highly illegal ......
|
|
|
|
