Why Should We Become a Secular Country
When discussing the separation of religion and government, it's important to establish a clear context. In the United States, the Constitution explicitly states that the Founding Fathers agreed to a non-religious foundation, recognizing non-religious aspects and prohibiting religious tests for public office. Upholding a secular government ensures the integrity of such a foundational agreement. A radical deviation, such as allowing religion to dominate government, would severely erode the basic trust and cooperation that the Constitution maintains.
The principle of secularism in the US has evolved over time. Initially, some controversial parts like slavery were legally questionable but were addressed through direct amendments and broader enforcement. Secularism, however, remains a challenge for many societies, including the US, where religious fundamentalists still fight to bring their beliefs into public spaces. This persists because secularism is inherently controversial and always under threat from powerful religious voices.
The Hare Krishna Perspective on Religion and Government
There are alternative perspectives on the relationship between religion and government. Hare Krishna followers firmly believe that religion cannot be separated from government. According to texts such as the Bhagavad Gita, religion is deeply intertwined with the essence of existence. The text suggests that any attempt to separate religion from governance is fundamentally flawed, similar to a tree trying to cut off its roots or a person trying to sit on a branch while cutting it.
The Bhagavad Gita, which is a sacred Sanskrit scripture, introduces the idea that God is the sustainer and the controller of all creation. It states:
“I am the father of this universe, the mother, the support and the grandsire. I am the object of knowledge, the purifier, and the syllable om. I am also the Rk, the Sama, and the Yajur [Vedas].”
Further, the text emphasizes:
“Whatever a man may sacrifice to other gods, O son of Kunti, is really meant for Me alone, but it is offered without true understanding. I am the only enjoyer and the only object of sacrifice. Those who do not recognize My true transcendental nature fall down.”
The Bhagavad Gita also addresses the consequences of different types of worship, stating:
“Those who worship the demigods will take birth among the demigods; those who worship ghosts and spirits will take birth among such beings; those who worship ancestors go to the ancestors, and those who worship Me will live with Me.”
A central theme is the importance of devotion to God and the ultimate fulfillment of this devotion. It concludes by emphasizing:
“Engage your mind always in thinking of Me, offer obeisances, and worship Me. Being completely absorbed in Me, surely you will come to Me.”
Concluding Thoughts: A Comprehensive View
The debate between secularism and religious governance is complex and multi-faceted. While the US Constitution provides a framework for a secular state, the realistic application of this principle involves ongoing political and social negotiation. Meanwhile, the Hare Krishna perspective presents a unified model where religion and governance are inextricably linked. Both approaches have their merits and challenges, and the adoption of either would largely depend on cultural, social, and historical context.
Achieving a balance between the two viewpoints is crucial. While complete separation might benefit pluralistic societies, a more integrated approach as advocated by some religious groups could enrich the relationship between religion and governance in others.