A Futile Proposition

I recently read about the “sectarian cleansing” in Dora, a section of Baghdad. Sunnis are threatening all Christians to either convert to Islam or leave under threat of death. Let’s face it, if these people had their wish, they would force everyone world-wide to convert as well. Throughout history various religions have sought to forcible convert the non-believers in their midst. This has never really worked. Not really.

I find the threat of “convert or die” a very foolish and futile proposition. An individual’s religious beliefs are anchored in the heart, as well as the mind. You may talk to and teach someone about your religion and maybe you might eventually convince that person to willingly convert to your religion, but you can never compel someone to truly convert. A forced convert may outwardly show obedience, but they will always retain their true beliefs in their heart.

So I can only conclude one of two things; either these extremists really do believe that threat of death can force a true change the hearts and minds of “infidels” or that all they really care about is forcing others to pay insincere lip service to their chosen belief system. Either way, I’m afraid they are sadly misguided.

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