ONE MORNING IN YOGYAKARTA
We sat on mats under the columned roof of the front pavilion, with neighbors, one Christian (a convert) and one of his Muslim relations. After the coureous inquiries about ages ( both of these local men were in their 70's) and families, and with tea served, we discussed relations between those of different religions in the village.
What they said about this was very much an idea that they shared. The Muslim said it this way:
"Our religions are for the purpose of developing our understanding and wisdom. Understanding is for the prupose of living in respect and harmony with others, even though we are different. If religious understanding does not produce this result, it is not true understanding. There are always those who will use interpretations of our texts and traditions for division or other wrong things. This is why we must guard against the misuse of our religions, and stand firmly for true religion."
More stories and pictures from Indonesia to come!
Jay Rock
We sat on mats under the columned roof of the front pavilion, with neighbors, one Christian (a convert) and one of his Muslim relations. After the coureous inquiries about ages ( both of these local men were in their 70's) and families, and with tea served, we discussed relations between those of different religions in the village.
What they said about this was very much an idea that they shared. The Muslim said it this way:
"Our religions are for the purpose of developing our understanding and wisdom. Understanding is for the prupose of living in respect and harmony with others, even though we are different. If religious understanding does not produce this result, it is not true understanding. There are always those who will use interpretations of our texts and traditions for division or other wrong things. This is why we must guard against the misuse of our religions, and stand firmly for true religion."
More stories and pictures from Indonesia to come!
Jay Rock
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