Why is religion important?

Recently, it has been customary in society to criticize theological worldviews and religion in general. It is logical, we live in the era of postmodernism, "God is dead", etc.

However, it seems to me that religion is much more important than many people think. Today I will try to describe the advantages of religion for our society. Of course, I do not advocate theocracy or anything like that, but it is impossible not to touch on this topic.

I. Hope

A human being is a creature that needs support. In its absence, the individual may be squeezed, marginalized and his problems will worsen. 

When a series of problems comes, a person needs to calm down. He needs to somehow ease his fear of the unknown. And it is at such moments that people begin to believe in God. Severe illness, life difficulties, fear of a vague and vague future. Human nature, experiencing such stress, tends to get away from it, switch to something that will comfort him.

Religion is exactly such a "comforter". She calms even those who can no longer be helped, giving them hope for an afterlife. Maybe this is self-deception, but it lightens the already heavy burden on the shoulders of unhappy people.

If life's obstacles are overcome, the fire that religion ignites in people's hearts can encourage them to help those in need and comfort them themselves.

II. Charity

The second point follows smoothly from the previous one.

Almost any religion preaches mercy, compassion, and love for one's neighbor. Therefore, a lot of sincerely believing people create charitable societies and organizations that help those in need.

Rehabilitation centers for addicts, humanitarian aid centers, almshouses, projects to help the disabled, orphanages - these and much more are created by believers with sincere altruistic motives.

And sometimes, in conditions of abandonment by both the state and almost the rest of society, religious organizations are the only salvation for those in need.

III. A moral guideline

I do not dispute that some dogmas and rules of some religions may seem outdated and even stupid. But in the vast majority, the norms that certain religions preach are quite correct.

Do not kill, do not steal, do not give false testimony, etc. Of course, excessive dogmatism is very often harmful, but in an acceptable amount, these norms are extremely clear moral guidelines. 

And combining the previous theses, even for many serious crimes there is forgiveness. It can also calm a person down and put them on the right path.

IV. Cultural development

Religion undoubtedly contributed to a certain growth of cultural "baggage". The development of architectural styles, sculpture, painting. Influence on literature and theater. Moreover, everything is limited not only to morality or mysteries, but also quite exciting plots.

Even modern art can sometimes borrow classical religious subjects. And all this is a symbol of the influence of religion on human life.

V. The development of science

And today we will finish with an equally important point - the development of education and science.

Yes, although the church often spoke from orthodox and conservative positions, but at the initial stage it was her merit that many examples of scientific progress were. Monks are scientists, priests are chroniclers, healers at monasteries, schools at churches. 

All of this has undoubtedly been a huge success. And it allowed the world science to develop in the future.

In the afterword, I note that religion, like any other thing in this world, has its disadvantages. There are also very zealous fanatics who distort the idea of faith. However, it is also not worth denying its advantages.

Peace be upon your home.