Signs of Best Religion
The best religion and school of thought should have the following features:
1-It should be logical and based on reason.
The tenets of a religion cannot contradict logic and reason. Of course it is not necessary for people in all ages and places to understand the secrets and reasons for religion’s teachings and programs based on their own intellect. So a religious teaching cannot be against reason but can be beyond some people’s intellect. There is no imitation accepted in believing in the religion’s tenets and main principles. One should recognize and accept them based on reason and logic.
2- It should be compatible with mankind’s Fitrat (nature).
Followers of a religion should see the programs and teachings of the religion as compatible with their Fitrat. For example, one naturally needs to have a spouse and a good religion should consider marriage a sacred bond.
3- It should not have been distorted.
Unfortunately, one of the problems faced by previous religions is that they have been distorted. The Quran reveals this, saying: “… they altered the words from their places and they neglected a portion of what they were reminded of.” (Surah Al-Ma’idah, Verse 13)
Fortunately, neither the enemies nor ignorant friends have been able to distort Islam because God Himself is its protector. “We Ourselves have revealed the Quran and We are its Protectors.” (Surah Al-Hijr, Verse 9)
4- It should be inspiring and creating hope.
One of the signs of a good religion is that it gives people hope and love. If a student knows his efforts in school are not in vain, he will be motivated to study. In divine worldview, one knows that he is always being watched by God and his good deeds will not be ignored.
5- It should be provident.
A good religion should be provident and have plans for future, explain the future to its followers and show the way for their progress and salvation.
6- It should be comprehensive.
A good religion should include both theoretical and practical issues. It should think about both this world and the next. It should include everything that an individual and a society need. Such a comprehensiveness is beautifully found in the Quran because it talks about materialistic and spiritual issues and those related to this world and the next.
7- It should have no dead-end.
In Islam the way to return to God is not closed to anyone. Many verses of the Quran talk about repentance. One of the greatest sins is losing hope in God’s mercy. No one should lose hope in God’s mercy and see himself in a dead-end under any circumstances. A good religion is one that has no dead-ends and one that guides the wrongdoers to the right path.
8-It should be easy to follow.
In a comprehensive religion, followers do not face difficulties and problems in fulfilling their responsibilities. Islam is such a religion. For example, ablution is necessary before saying prayers but if there is no water for ablution, one can do Tayammum. Or everything is Halal (permissible) in Islam unless the opposite is proven.
