There is no difference between religion and science. Both are aspects of truth and truth is indivisible. Religion without science becomes superstition and science void of religious guidance results is gross materialism¬–which is contrary to life and therefore destructive, promoting death. The inherent relationship between science and religion then is quite apparent.
All religions teach that we must be good, generous, sincere, honest, faithful and law-abiding¬–the only way man can progress. The laws of all religions also conform to reason and are suited to the people for whom they were framed and for the age in which they are to be applied. Religions also are of two primary parts–the spiritual or absolute that never changes, and the practical (variable) that does. The practical part of religion deals with outer forms and ceremonies and with means of punishment for certain offenses – the martial side of the law that guides the customs and behavior of the people.
In the time of Moses there were ten crimes punishable by death. When Christ came this was changed. The old law, “an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth,” was converted to “Love your enemies and do good to them that despise you.” The stern old law changed into one of mercy love and patience.
Also in former days the punishment for theft was the cutting off of the right hand that could not be applied in this age. Neither could a man who curses his father in this age be put to death as would have applied in that era.
Today many have become attached to outward forms, ceremonies, rituals and practices that create dissension and division as also created by the dangerous weapon of egos while locked in “the prison of self.” In older less mercenary times people were taught through example to care for one another and those families with the least were always the ones most willing to share it – and usually did. How odd that the more we acquire, the less we are willing to share with others, often pacifying probable guilt by throwing money at the problem. Families, communities, men and nations of today quickly organize behind disasters. The danger passed we historically return to our respective corners–and come out fighting.
Webster defines the word cooperate in one simple explanation: “to act jointly with another or others.” Ridiculously simple in theory; unimaginably difficult in application due to the smallest word in the English dictionary¬–ego, the science of self – in the absence of religion. True peace is not negotiated. It begins with the individual heart and spreads through the magnet of love. Not love as we perceive it, but the boundless, irresistible love that flows through hollow instrument from which the pith of self hath been blown…” as emphasized in my favorite Baha’i prayer.
God simplifies, man complicates; God unifies, man divides; God strengthens, man weakens; God builds, man destroys. With the continuous advancement of science, technology and weaponry, we cannot survive keeping hate alive. It must be balanced (and destroyed) by religion! “By their fruits ye shall know them.” Matt. 7:20
