Religion and national unity

Religion and national unity

The popular saying "united we stand, divided we fall" has
never been more apt, timely and relevant than it is today for
Indonesia. The world's largest archipelago has often left the
rest of the world wondering how its people live in perfect
harmony despite the diversity of its composition. In this country
people of varied religious faiths and ethnic origins have been
living together in excellent understanding and amity for
centuries. They have, in fact, set a glowing example to all other
nations, especially those embroiled in inter-racial and religious
conflicts. Developing and implementing the usage of a single
national language throughout the length and breadth of the vast
country has indeed paid rich dividends. It has brought about a
common medium of communication, which has been an essential
binding force in the process of national integration.

Every single known religion in this world is founded on the
basic principles "Love thy neighbor," In keeping with the
teachings of the various religions, there has never been a
feeling of antipathy, till recently, between the followers of
differing religious beliefs. Actually, not only were Indonesians
tolerant towards other religions, there has never been an
interest in learning about the tenets and epics of other faiths.
Hence, it is quite painful to find that such friendly and good-
natured people are succumbing to the provocations and
instigations from a handful of misguided fellow citizens, thereby
indulging in a mutual attacks and sacrilege in the name of
religion.

Such vendettas can only be suicidal in the long run and
accelerate the pace of national disintegration. The nation can
simply not afford to allow such acts to continue, especially at a
time when it is struggling to shake off the multitude of
economic, political and social problems, trying to win back the
confidence of the international community. Religious leaders
should exert their influence on their followers and bring the
situation under control immediately, thereby restoring peace and
amity, as it existed before.

It is sincerely hoped that better counsel will prevail soon
and rescue the country from the abyss.

M. VISWANATHAN

Karawang, West Java