Lina Joy

Now what can I say about the Lina Joy case in a few sentences?

The Lina Joy case throws up, again, an issue found in many religions which is often swept under the carpet or elicit more obfuscations - ambivalence.

Ambivalence means holding two contrary and opposite views at one time. On one hand you say there is no compulsion in religion, on the other, you are threatened with some sort of dire consequences if you are in breach of a religious edict. The word edict or command itself suggests force.

The only non punitive religion that I know is Buddhism. Buddhism holds that you are entirely responsible for your karma - cause and effect. You commit wrong, you yourself will suffer the consequences. No punishment is imposed by an outside authority.

Religion X will excommunicate or derobe you but you are free to walk out on it. Religion Y says walking out on it is a serious offence for it demeans the religion.

Many religions tell their followers, salvation, redemption lies in seeking the grace and forgiveness from a source outside of you. Buddhism says all that you seek outside are within you. Only you can save yourself.

So how does all that relate to Lina Joy? The answer is obvious.