The religious belief system is based on the concept that there is a higher power who created humans, guides them, and judges them. It provides moral and ethical guidance to individuals and communities through sacred texts and practices. Religious symbolism can be used to promote and justify social norms and institutions that may be oppressive to some groups.
Women's rights, same-sex marriage, and gender equality are considered taboo subjects in many cultures due to religious teachings. This legitimizes repression as virtue because it creates a sense of moral superiority for those who adhere to these beliefs.
The religious doctrine dictates how people should behave in society, including their roles and responsibilities towards each other. Gender roles are often assigned according to biblical principles, which reinforce male dominance over females. In patriarchal societies such as Islamic and Christian cultures, women must obey men and cover themselves fully to avoid sexual temptation. These rules make them vulnerable to abuse and exploitation while giving men control over their lives. As such, gender inequality is justified by religion.
Marriage and family relationships are also subject to religious norms. Most religions require heterosexual monogamy between a man and woman for life. Sex outside this union is condemned as sinful and immoral. This view makes homosexuality or polygamy unacceptable and promotes stigma against LGBTQ+ persons. It also leads to high divorce rates since marriages fail when partners do not meet the expectations of their faith.
Many countries have laws based on religious teachings to regulate personal conduct, especially sex. Pornography, premarital sex, and extramarital affairs are illegal in some places, with harsh penalties meted out to offenders. Religious leaders argue that these acts lead to immorality and corruption, but they provide an excuse for governments to suppress dissenting opinions.
Blasphemy laws criminalize criticism of religion, leaving little room for freedom of expression.
Religion can be used to perpetuate violence and discrimination against minorities. The Crusades and jihadist terrorism are examples where religious beliefs justify mass murder and destruction of those who differ from the mainstream faith. Innocent people become victims of religious persecution due to intolerance and bigotry promoted by extremists.
Religious symbolism legitimizes repression as virtue because it provides moral support for oppressive social structures. This hinders progress and prevents societies from achieving equality, tolerance, and inclusivity. To combat this, individuals must resist traditional norms and promote diversity and acceptance.
How does religious symbolism legitimize repression as virtue?
Religion is often used as an authoritative source of moral values that can be used to justify acts of oppression and repression against minorities, especially those who do not share the same belief system. This is because religion provides a set of rules and norms that are seen as divinely ordained, making them seem infallible and unquestionable.