Thursday, February 11, 2010
The 'Pastor Rony Tan' incident had concluded. He was investigated, then apologised, and was forgiven by the religious leaders representing the very religions that were demonised.
Like many others, I felt that the lack of consequences for such grave comments and insults made, was certainly inappropriate. You would be reminded of the 3 youngsters who got arrested for posting racist remarks online. These youngsters might have been immature and ignorant. But for a man, in his 60s, he ought to have been sensitive, especially when treading on sticky issues as such. But looking at the whole picture at large, I'm sure the ISD had considered the possible backlash that might trigger if this public figure was to be put behind bars for igniting religious disharmony.
At least, he chose to apologise and close the matter.
I merely followed the news closely over the few days. But today, a friend encouraged me to watch the video clips.
I searched high and low, but couldn't find it anywhere. Youtube is certainly clamping down on it too, showing how serious the videos were. Coincidentally, another friend gave me a link to the videos, without prior knowledge that I was searching for them. Phew.
I watched, certainly with much disgust. The people who were giving accounts 'claimed' they were ex-nun and ex-monk, but yet were so utterly ignorant. I must say I have nothing against the accounts of the 2 interviewees, because I had heard my fair share of stories about christians-turned-buddhists. Switching of faith is of a personal freedom and no one can say it's a right or wrong.
But the absolute wrong is this: Without having an adequate knowledge about another religion, the Pastor blasted the religion, saying it is 'False Religion', 'Untrue', 'Demons', and made funny pokes at Buddhism thinkings. That is certainly overboard. There are many insensitive people around, but such words are to be least expected from someone in a public position like him. And what? It was posted on the Church's website. No wonder so many people felt offended.
I certainly hope Sensitivity can be the utmost consideration for anything religious. That is the point I'm making. This blog here does not wish to delve into religion-comparisons, nor is it an avenue to debate about religious matters. The owner of the blog IS sensitive.
This is the link to the mentioned clips, watch them before they are removed soon:
人生是黑白的.
1:23 AM <3
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