Equality is different for every religion. Everyone has a different view on it and everyone has certain limits. But how do people see this from Christianity, Judaism, Humanism, Islam or Hinduism? In this article you will find out everything about it.
Christianity
Christians have always believed that God values every human life and that He loves all people equally. But Christianity also has unequal treatment. Here, for example, homosexual relationships are prohibited. In fact, it goes against the law of nature and it closes off the ‘gift’ of life according to Christians. The Bible says to love all the creatures God has created. This also includes animals. Abuse is frowned upon and Christianity does not practice sacrificing or killing animals for a special ritual.
Judaism
Within Judaism it is believed that every person is created in God’s image and that therefore men and women are equal. ‘Labeling’ people according to their (sexual) orientation is almost uncommon. Homosexuality is not accepted. According to the Jews, homosexuality does not actually ‘exist’ and therefore not everyone is treated equally. The (senseless) destruction of lives is part of destroying an animal species, and Jews count that as equal to eating blood, which is absolutely forbidden. Animals are therefore not much less equal than humans.
Humanism
Although Humanists may have different views on all kinds of topics, ‘equality’ is a key concept. Everyone is equal and they are treated that way, despite their differences. Humanists are against discrimination (including on the grounds of someone’s sexual orientation). Humanists feel a duty to treat nature with care and they want to treat animals well. They see the prevention of suffering in animals as a hallmark of ‘humanity’.
Islam
In Islam, it is not necessarily equality, but especially justice that is important. In Islam, the relationship between women and men is not really based on equality. For example, wearing a headscarf is an obligation for all adult Muslim women because Allah requires it. Due to the fact that men and women are different, Islam also treats them differently. Within Islam there are also parts where no distinction is made between a man and a woman. The Quran declares that man is the guardian of the animals. Animals may therefore be sacrificed, but there must be a valid reason for this, otherwise it is seen as a major sin. Within Islam, as in some other religions, arranged marriages also occur, although this is actually prohibited. Homosexual relationships are not tolerated.
Hinduism
There is also inequality within Hinduism. From a Hindu perspective, man and woman are not equal. They differ on both the physical and mental levels. What men are good at, women cannot always be good at and what women are good at sometimes goes poorly for men. According to Hinduism, marriage is only possible with someone of the opposite sex and it is a matter of arranged marriage. Also, all people, animals, plants and other things in nature deserve reverence and respect.