Egyptian writer Adil Noman recently published an article in Al-Masry Al-Youm, criticizing the tendency to justify falsehoods and superstitions by wrapping them in a religious cloak. He argues that this approach is prevalent in societies where ignorance is widespread, and that it is used to control people's minds. Noman cites a quote from the Andalusian philosopher Ibn Rushd, who said that the trade of religions is thriving in societies where ignorance prevails.
Noman provides several examples of how this phenomenon manifests in Egyptian society. He mentions a story about Imam Al-Shafi'i's neighbor, who allegedly carried a pregnancy for three years, and how this story is used as a reference to justify similar claims. He also notes that some scholars have extended the pregnancy period to six years, and that such claims are accepted without critical examination. Noman argues that this approach undermines the role of reason and critical thinking in society.
The writer also criticizes the way that some religious figures and media outlets promote superstitions and falsehoods. He mentions a TV channel that broadcasts a program featuring a sheikh who talks about jinn and their alleged interactions with humans, including sharing a bed with couples. The sheikh's claims are presented as factual, and the program attracts millions of viewers. Noman argues that such programs are not only entertaining but also damaging to society.
Noman emphasizes that he is not questioning the validity of religious experiences or the existence of saints and prophets. However, he argues that such experiences should be understood within their historical context and not taken as evidence for supernatural claims. He also notes that the era of miracles and supernatural events is over, and that claims of such events should be subject to critical examination and evidence.
The writer also highlights the dangers of promoting superstitions and falsehoods in a society that values education and critical thinking. He argues that such claims can be used to manipulate people's minds and undermine their critical faculties. Noman calls for a more nuanced approach to understanding the relationship between religion and superstition.
Noman's article has sparked a lively debate in Egyptian media and social circles. While some have praised his critique of superstitions and falsehoods, others have defended the role of religion in promoting moral values and social cohesion. The debate highlights the complex and often contentious nature of the relationship between religion and society in Egypt.
Ultimately, Noman's article is a call to promote critical thinking and reason in Egyptian society. He argues that by subjecting claims to critical examination and evidence, Egyptians can build a more informed and enlightened society. The article is a significant contribution to the ongoing debate about the role of religion and superstition in Egyptian society.
Key points
- Egyptian writer Adil Noman criticizes the use of religion to justify superstitions and falsehoods in society.
