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Why have some religious texts become more accepted and embraced by mainstream society while others remain controversial and contested?

Ole Oakeby

In recent years, the topic of religion and its texts has become a hotly debated issue in mainstream society. It is no surprise that some religious texts have become more accepted and embraced by mainstream culture, while others remain controversial and contested. There are a number of factors that have contributed to this phenomenon, including the changing landscape of religious beliefs, social and political movements, and shifting cultural attitudes towards religion.

One of the primary reasons why some religious texts have become more accepted is due to their ability to adapt to the changing times. For example, the Bible has been able to maintain its relevance because of the way it has been interpreted over time. Different Christian denominations have been able to tailor their interpretations of the Bible to fit with new insights into science, philosophy, and cultural norms. This is not to say that there has not been controversy surrounding certain passages in the Bible, but it has proven to be more flexible than other texts.

Conversely, some religious texts continue to remain controversial because they are viewed as outdated or their teachings are not adaptable to modern society. For instance, the Quran has been subject to intense scrutiny and criticism from non-Muslims. The Quran's teachings on topics such as women's rights, homosexuality, and religious tolerance are often viewed as incompatible with Western values. Additionally, some Muslims have been accused of using the Quran to justify violent actions, which has led to negative perceptions of the text as a whole.

Another reason why some religious texts are more accepted than others is related to social and political movements. For example, the New Testament has been embraced by many progressive Christians who view Jesus as a social justice advocate. The New Testament's teachings on poverty, systemic injustice, and inclusivity align with the values of many people on the left side of the political spectrum. On the other hand, the Book of Mormon has been criticized for its connections to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, which has a history of discrimination against marginalized groups such as Black people and LGBTQ+ individuals.

Finally, cultural attitudes towards religion also play a role in why some texts are more accepted than others. In a time where many people are moving away from organized religion, texts that promote individualism and spirituality have garnered more attention. Examples of this include the teachings of Eastern religions such as Buddhism and Hinduism, which emphasize inner peace and self-realization. These texts have been embraced by many in mainstream society as an alternative to traditional religious texts.

In conclusion, the reasons why certain religious texts are more accepted than others are complex and multifaceted. They reflect the ways in which religion intersects with culture, politics, and society as a whole. While some texts have been able to adapt to changing values and attitudes, others remain contentious due to their perceived incompatibility with modern society. As people continue to have conversations about the role of religion in mainstream culture, it is likely that the attitudes towards these texts will continue to evolve.