by Shashank Sharma

Created on: June 13, 2009   Last Updated: June 21, 2009

Religion can be called the most ancient art on Earth, whether created by man himself or some extraordinary power is for the reader to decide. From birth, we are tagged and recognized by a set of beliefs passed on to us by our ancestors. But does this create division and segregation? Does our religion set us apart and divide us, like two apples alike in structure but painted green and red in color?

Yes, it is true that religion can segregate us in some occasions. Generally people of each religion believe that theirs' is the only God and that no other 'higher power' exists. Similarly, the differences in religious views itself can create a division. Are there multiple gods, like in Hinduism or one single god, like in Christianity? Is there a heaven and hell or a single Place of the Dead, where you are sent to irrespective of your virtues or vices?

Difference in opinion can generate ill feeling among people and incite fights. Crusades and murders in the name of religion too are not unheard of. Taliban is currently fighting to implement the Sharia rule in the Muslim world, and is killing both non-Muslims and Muslims who oppose the movement as 'traitors'. This shows that extreme following of religion can not only divide, but also provoke wars and kill people.

Yet it would be imprudent to say the religion always creates division, or that it is the only reason for division. Destructive political ideologies have also been known to create much worse situations. The Nazi war in Germany is a classic example of this. It's not only religion that can give rise to fanaticism but also politics and literature. Some books and articles have also inflamed controversy, inspired riots and been a reason for serious human and property damage. So it would be immature to hold religion as the sole cause for fanaticism.

Religion makes people humane, whether by fear or faith. People unite under one religion and have a feeling of kinship with others of the same belief. Similarly in this modern world of globalization and blending of different races and people, it has to be said that although religion might divide people, it does so very rarely.

So to the earlier question about whether religion divides or not I'd take the middle path and say that it depends on the circumstances. Like every other thing on earth, religion too has both pros and cons. All races and religions are equal and the human civilization is learning it quick. In these times of modern development and civilization, religion conveniently takes a backseat.

Learn more about this author, Shashank Sharma.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.