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