How to Navigate Religion and Live Ethically

Religion is a personal choice, not a mandatory life sentence. It is a way to understand the world and connect with the divine. In this exploration, we will delve into the freedoms we have in choosing our belief systems and the ethical choices that guide our lives.

Choice in Religion: A Journey of Personal Fulfillment

Religion is a framework of beliefs and practices that guide our daily lives. It is not shackled upon us but a personal choice. For Muslims, or any believer, the true essence of religion lies in a conscious acceptance of its principles, a submission to the One Creator, and a surrender to divine will. Being born into a religious community does not automatically make one a follower of that religion. True faith is a personal commitment to the foundational beliefs of that faith, such as acknowledging the pillars of Islam, which include belief in one God, the prophets, the Quran, angels, and the day of judgment. This conscious agreement and submission are what define a true Muslim.

Life as a Test: The Purpose of Existence

Our time on Earth is a test, and the decisions we make and the actions we take determine our journey in the afterlife. Each individual is solely responsible for their own deeds, and every soul is accountable to God alone. The purpose of life is not merely to live for pleasure and consumption but to serve God, obey Him, and make the most of the resources, talents, and skills gifted by Him. Our actions and intentions will be judged, and we must be prepared to account for how we utilized our resources and what purposes they served.

Freedom to Choose: Analyzing and Following Your Intuition

Your choice of belief is a personal journey that should be taken guided by rational thought and intuition. Learning and understanding the teachings of your faith, such as reading the Quran and the life of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), can help clarify misunderstandings and provide a clearer path. Remember, the goal is not to merely accept these teachings but to truly understand and internalize them. By analyzing and reflecting on various religious texts, you can make informed decisions and decisions that resonate with your core values.

Simultaneously, Embrace the Universal Truth

While it is important to discern and choose a religion, it is equally important to embrace the essential truths and values that transcend all religions. The idea that the same God resides in all individuals should be a guiding principle. True religions are characterized by compassion, empathy, and fellow-feeling. These universal values should be the bedrock of our ethical living, regardless of our specific religious affiliation.

The Challenges of Religions and Societal Progress

The past can serve as a reminder of the positive changes that occur when people are unburdened by religious and societal constraints. When people were less educated and focused on survival, communities were more cohesive and less plagued by conflicts based on religion or caste. However, with time and advancements in material wealth and education, the greed and ignorance that can arise can lead to division and chaos. Therefore, it is crucial to be wary of those who exploit these newfound freedoms for their own gain, often under the guise of religious or cultural identities.

Living Ethically: A Guide for Modern Times

While changing one’s religion can be seen as a significant shift, it is important to retain the essence of one’s spiritual beliefs rather than convert for the sake of conversion. Embrace the good aspects of your chosen religion and practice them in private. It is important to respect others' beliefs and recognize that the same divine force guides all of humanity. If you wish to remain spiritually unaffiliated, society will still present challenges, so it is best to approach any controversial discussions with wisdom and grace. Utilize your viveka (discrimination) in distinguishing right from wrong, and tread carefully in matters of religion, caste, and community.