No religion advocates war

No religion advocates war

From Koran Tempo

The aftermath of the WTC-Pentagon tragedy is being increasingly politicized on a daily basis. The focus has shifted, as it is no longer on terrorism, but it is now more of a religious issue, as can be seen from the number of Indonesians who are prepared to depart for Afghanistan to join in a jihad.

Is this a virtuous act? Is there any religion that teaches us to wage war?

Now that Afghanistan has been attacked by the United States, I suggest that we collect funds to help out the civilian victims and channel our aspirations through the United Nations because going to Afghanistan would be a futile surrender of the soul.

To me, being the breadwinner of one's family during these crises is jihad in itself. Wouldn't it be extremely heartrending for families to lose the men who are their beloved husbands or fathers?

What if the mastermind of the above tragedy really turns out to be Osama bin Laden after all? Wouldn't it then be a far more pointless death? Besides, could a war against the United States be categorized as a war in the interest of or benefiting any religion?

HERMANTO WILLIN

Medan, North Sumatra