As a disclaimer, I’d like to start by stating that this article is in no way meant to generalize any group of persons mentioned. In the same breath I do not claim to be an aficionado of religions, nor can I deem myself correct in such matters. The following is merely a question to the world, to be interpreted as you, the reader, see fit.
My take on religion is definitely one of simplicity, in which no one is wrong or right per se. Whether one chooses to believe in God, Allah, the goddess, or some other deity, I have no qualms with accepting those beliefs as valid to a certain group. In general, if whichever belief system set guidelines to be a “good person” are met then Heaven, reincarnation, or whatever comes after this life will be achieved.
The organization known as Chick Publications, founded by Jack Chick, is one which is in the business of printing religious tracts. These tracts are available to the general public to read online, and also can be ordered for those who wish to spread their message through a process called “witnessing.”
I wouldn’t have an issue with Chick Publications, other than the fact that instead of spreading their beliefs through a message of love and understanding it seems to be that of hatred and fear, bent on scaring non-believers into conversion.
All my life I’ve been told so many different things about what God is and how we should worship him. The message conveyed by Chick publications is that we should fear God, who I have been told is supposed to be all merciful. Why would someone choose to follow a God that they are supposed to be scared of?
Making a specific example of one of the published tracts entitled “Allah Had No Son,” is used to defame and discredit the entire Muslim belief system. The story follows a conversation between two men of opposing faiths. One a Muslim follower, and the other a Christian man.
The encounter between the two men, taking place in front of the Christian man’s young son, no doubt setting an example for children, depicts those of Muslim faith to be hostile and aggressive people. Surprisingly enough, the conversation ends with the Muslim man wholly converted to Christianity, throwing aside the beliefs he was defending a short while ago, calling the Christian man an infidel.
In summary, I’d like to leave you, the reader, asking yourself why a certain group of people, namely Chick Publications, would blatantly attack other religions. Ask yourself how right Chick Publications can be, when they refuse to accept any other answers to the questions we all have.
