Where is your enemy?

The human inclination towards community is a double-edged sword; it fosters a sense of belonging and shared identity, yet it can inadvertently lead to division. This paradox arises from our tendency to categorize and group individuals, often overlooking the nuanced tapestry of human individuality. The concept of ‘normal’ or ‘perfect’ is a societal construct that fails to acknowledge the inherent uniqueness of each person. If we were to embrace this uniqueness, recognizing that no one truly fits into these rigid categories, our perspective on others would shift dramatically.

By understanding and valuing the individuality of each person, we would cultivate a more inclusive society. This shift in perception would reduce the propensity to view those from different backgrounds as ‘others’ and diminish the formation of enemies based on group identities. Instead, any animosity would be directed towards individual actions rather than projected onto entire communities or nations.

In this light, the notion of having enemies on a grand scale becomes illogical. It is not entire countries or groups that we would take issue with, but specific behaviours or ideologies that conflict with our values. This approach promotes a more peaceful coexistence, where differences are not just tolerated but appreciated. It encourages dialogue and understanding, rather than conflict and separation.

Ultimately, the recognition of our unique identities could lead to a more harmonious world, where the idea of enemies is obsolete. It would be a world where diversity is celebrated, and the commonalities that bind us are stronger than the differences that divide us. In such a society, the focus would be on collaboration and mutual respect, paving the way for a future where unity is found in diversity, and peace is a natural state of affairs.

Religious beliefs and practices are deeply embedded in the fabric of many societies, often serving as a cornerstone for community and personal identity. However, it is important to recognize that certain interpretations of religious teachings can contribute to an ‘enemy-focused’ mindset. This occurs when religious texts or doctrines are interpreted in a way that emphasizes division between ‘believers’ and ‘non-believers’, or when they are used to justify bias and exclusion.

Fundamentalist ideologies, which can be found in various religious traditions, often adopt a literal interpretation of sacred texts and can foster a mindset that is resistant to differing viewpoints. This rigidity can lead to dualistic thinking, where the world is seen in terms of black and white, us versus them, and right versus wrong, without acknowledging the complex spectrum of human beliefs and behaviours.

Such a mindset can be further exacerbated by charismatic leaders who may exploit religious sentiments for personal or political gain, intensifying feelings of paranoia and rage within a group context. The resulting narrative often positions the in-group as the sole bearers of truth and righteousness, while painting those outside the group as threats to the community’s way of life.

Moreover, the concept of an apocalyptic end or a final judgment can heighten the sense of urgency and conflict, leading to an ‘us against the world’ mentality. This apocalyptic orientation can distort perspectives on time, death, and violence, sometimes justifying extreme actions in the name of religious conviction.

It is crucial to understand that these dynamics may not be inherent to religion itself but can be the product of specific interpretations and uses of religious teachings. Many religious communities around the world promote peace, compassion, and understanding, emphasizing the common humanity shared by all, regardless of faith or background.

To counteract the enemy-focused mindset, it is essential for religious and non-religious individuals alike to engage in open, respectful dialogue. Education and exposure to diverse perspectives can help dismantle stereotypes and reduce the fear of the ‘other’. By fostering critical thinking and empathy, communities can move towards a more inclusive and accepting approach to religious diversity.

In addition, it is often the case that the enemy focussed mindset can be challenged using the words and teachings from within the individuals’ faith. For example, many evangelical Christians have an enemy-based mindset, and they encourage others to abuse none believers until they claim belief, claiming this is what the Bible encourages them to do.

The Bible offers profound insights into the nature of struggle, emphasizing that often our greatest battles are not with external forces, but with our own inner conflicts. Ephesians 6:12, for instance, reminds us that “our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.” This suggests that the true conflict lies within the spiritual realm and our own hearts, rather than the physical world.

Moreover, Romans 7:15 reveals the apostle Paul’s own internal struggle, saying, “For what I am doing, I do not understand; for I am not practising what I would like to do, but I am doing the very thing I hate.” This verse candidly expresses the human condition of battling against one’s own flawed nature, which can lead to actions that are incongruent with one’s values and desires.

The Bible encourages self-awareness and personal growth to overcome these internal struggles. In the process of self-reflection and seeking divine guidance, one can find the strength to align actions with beliefs, thereby reducing the inclination to project internal turmoil onto others as fear or hatred. It is through this inward journey and reliance on God’s grace, as mentioned in 2 Corinthians 1:3-5, that individuals can find peace and develop the virtues of patience, endurance, and hope.

In essence, the Bible teaches that by confronting and overcoming our own inner adversaries, we can prevent the manifestation of these conflicts in the form of external enmity. It is a call to introspection and spiritual warfare within oneself, rather than engaging in battles against perceived external enemies. Through such understanding and transformation, one can contribute to a more harmonious and compassionate world.

In biblical terms, this process of finding our kingdom within, is one of removing from ourselves the concept that there is any enemy, other than our incorrect thinking that there are.