How religions that insist on conversion, due to an intrinsic belief system that there's one path to God, and Only one, can estrange and in some cases even absolve one of family duties and ties.
A recent convert to Christianity refuses to perform the last rites for his deceased Hindu father.
Perhaps it was a personal grudge, because the father had disapproved of the conversion. Harsh but human nature is capable of inexplicable cruelty.
However, what did strike me was, wouldn't the rites, (first, last or in between), of another religion be unacceptable to any religion that preaches exclusivity? Isn't this entire insistence on conversion, and proselytizing, itself divisive and non secular in nature?
I should add, of course anyone should be free to research and discover a particular faith is eminently suitable to him, and adopt it free of disapproval or discouragement from anyone however close. But, in the same breath, it shouldn't be thrust upon one, or even implicitly encouraged simply because, one feels one's religious path is the sole path to Truth and Heaven.
Especially if a person chooses to marry outside his or her faith, neither pressure should be brought to bear upon that person to convert, nor should social approval or amity be withheld, if said person resists. Because a subtle form of ostracism or disapproval becomes a dangerous weapon, making a person feel worthless, a non entity, unwanted and unloved.
Loss of self respect and esteem occurs, causing incalculable damage, to that person and his or her relationship.
This surely cannot be the laudable goal of any religion.
People should feel free to belong to a religion and participate in the rites and festivities of another, with no value judgement imposed.
Only then is there any true freedom. Passive tolerance is then transformed to joyful and positive acceptance.
Kudos to Ms Yakub Bi who is able to take on this sensitive empathetic and transformational role.
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