A Call for Result-Oriented Action: Advice to Religious Fanatics Across the World...

In the tapestry of human history, religion has been a powerful force, guiding individuals and communities through the complexities of life, offering moral frameworks, and providing solace in times of hardship. Yet, in recent decades, the spirit of religion has often been hijacked by those who engage in divisive debates, sectarian violence, and ideological extremism, rather than using it as a tool for positive change. The tragic irony is that the very teachings meant to elevate human dignity have been weaponized by the so-called religious fanatics, whose focus on doctrinal purity and ideological supremacy only serves to deepen divisions and stymie progress.

Across the world, religious communities—whether Muslim, Christian, Hindu, Jewish, or of any faith—are witnessing a concerning rise in fanaticism. From extremist interpretations of Islam to fundamentalist Christian and Hindu movements, the emphasis on purity, exclusivity, and superiority has overshadowed the core values of peace, compassion, and wisdom that are central to all major religions. It is time for a deep reflection and an urgent call to action.

The Perils of Idle Pursuits in Religious Zealotry

A case from 1917 in Egypt offers a potent reminder of the dangers of getting lost in theological distractions. In that year, a theologian in Egypt was brought to religious court for asserting that Noah, not Adam, should be regarded as the first prophet, based on his interpretation of the Qur’an. The court ruled against him, declaring him an apostate. However, when the case was appealed, the judge reversed the ruling, rebuking the theologian for his “useless pursuits” and reminding him that while the world advanced with practical innovations, he was engaged in fruitless debates.

This episode offers a timeless lesson, one that resonates across all religious communities today: In the midst of intense theological or ideological disputes, the world around us continues to change, often at a pace that leaves the fanatics and purists behind. While Europe and other parts of the world moved forward with scientific, technological, and societal progress, some were busy fighting battles over abstract concepts with no real-world benefit.

This is not a critique of intellectual or theological inquiry. Rather, it is a call to religious communities everywhere to ask themselves: What is the practical impact of our beliefs and actions? Are we advancing humanity, or are we stuck in ideological battles that only serve to divide us further?

The Teachings of the World’s Great Religions: A Call to Action

Religious texts across the globe, regardless of tradition, share common threads that emphasize compassion, peace, and the importance of action that benefits society. The Qur’an, the Bible, the Bhagavad Gita, the Torah—all urge their followers to focus on what is beneficial, to strive for justice, and to seek the welfare of others. Yet, these same texts have often been misinterpreted or twisted to justify violence, hatred, and oppression.

Islam teaches its followers that "Besides the other qualities of Islam, one is man’s renunciation of disadvantageous activities." The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized result-oriented action that leads to a better world. Christianity echoes this with Christ’s message of love, forgiveness, and serving the needy. "Blessed are the peacemakers," he said, underscoring the importance of reconciliation over division. In Hinduism, the Bhagavad Gita speaks of the importance of performing one's duty without attachment to results, emphasizing action in harmony with righteousness (dharma). Judaism advocates for justice and healing the world (tikkun olam), while Buddhism speaks of the path of enlightenment as one of wisdom, ethical conduct, and mental discipline, leading to the alleviation of suffering.

Despite these unifying principles, religious fanatics—across all faiths—continue to indulge in harmful practices that detract from the core teachings of their religions. Instead of striving for peace and positive societal impact, they often focus on purging perceived impurities, engaging in violent acts, or creating divisions. This focus on theological purity, at the expense of action that fosters societal well-being, can only lead to stagnation and harm.

The Global Crisis of Religious Fanaticism

The rise of religious extremism today is a direct result of an inability to reconcile these teachings with the practical needs of our modern world. Whether it is the fanaticism seen in parts of the Islamic world, the violent Christian nationalism in the West, or the Hindu right-wing movements in India, the common thread is the same: an unhealthy fixation on preserving a distorted version of religious purity, rather than addressing the issues that afflict the global community.

This misguided focus fuels violence, terrorism, and hate, while undermining efforts for peace, justice, and equality. It is important to note that the primary victims of religious fanaticism are not just the “other”—the so-called enemies of a particular religion—but the adherents themselves, who are deprived of the true potential of their faith to heal and uplift. By prioritizing doctrinal battles and militant agendas, they rob themselves of the opportunity to act in ways that can genuinely improve their societies.

The Path Forward: From Theological Dispute to Societal Contribution

Religious fanatics the world over must heed the lessons of history. They must recognize that true faith is not measured by one’s adherence to rigid dogma but by one’s actions in the world. The time has come to shift focus from divisive theological disputes to actions that address the pressing needs of the world: combating poverty, inequality, climate change, and the various injustices that plague humanity.

For Muslims, Christians, Hindus, Jews, and all religious communities, the call is clear: Channel your faith into efforts that bring tangible benefits to your communities and to the world. Take a step back from doctrinal purity and sectarian violence and ask yourselves: How can my beliefs serve the greater good? How can I contribute to a world of peace, prosperity, and justice?

This does not mean abandoning the core tenets of your faith. Rather, it is a call to live those tenets fully, to embrace the universal values of compassion, justice, and peace that lie at the heart of every great religion. By doing so, religious communities can heal the world, rather than tearing it apart.

A Unified Vision: Faith in Action for the Future

The world’s great religions, despite their differences, all share a common goal: the betterment of humanity. This vision of a harmonious and just world is not a distant dream but a practical, actionable reality. It requires putting aside the petty squabbles of the past and uniting in the pursuit of common goals that benefit all of humankind.

The religious fanatics of the world, from all faiths, would do well to heed this advice: Focus less on theological purity and more on the real-world impact of your actions. The need for positive, constructive action has never been greater, and the world is watching. Let us all take this opportunity to be the change our faiths demand, for only through meaningful action will we achieve the future that the world so desperately needs.