I held a discussion with three Muslims who lecture at an Islamic university. They consider pluralism a good thing, respect lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people and do not believe in violence.

I asked them many things, including their views on the Sunni vs. Shia conflict. They responded by saying that the '€œKoran accommodates everything'€. They said the Koran offered good information and bad, and that people could choose what to believe.

The problem is that many people arrogantly interpret the Koran. A childish interpreter will interpret the Koran childishly, while a mature interpreter will interpret the Koran well.

Gregdaru
Jakarta

I cannot speak for all expats here, but I'€™ve never wrestled with the concept that Indonesia is not a real secular state.  It is perfectly obvious that it is not.  It does, however, repetitively say that it is, mostly utilizing an at-best flawed state ideology and a delusional notion that religion (or religions) will somehow order society and its morals, despite pretty compelling evidence to the contrary.  The reality is what it is and disliking it (or in my case hating it) is not to deny this.  We would, however, be much better off without this archaic baggage in our lives and the secular society is the way to go.

I need to be clear that having a secular society does not mean taking out religion.  Religion will be a part of our society for years, decades or centuries to come so long as we remain afraid of death.  To say that because some, like myself, are atheist (or rather anti-theist) is not to say that we do not owe those who believe all of the protection they need to practice their beliefs insofar as they do not infringe upon others in this practice.  Also, secular societies should understand beliefs and their origins as they are of educational benefit; for me as an English teacher, story and myth.

I'€™ll tell you what though, I pity the poor fools who make decisions on behalf of their respective deities should their particular hells actually exist.  I'€™m sure their standing in the underworld will be a lot more prestigious than mine if the texts are anything to go by.

L. Millar
Jakarta

The growth of Christianity in Indonesia is hardly surprising because we as a people are quite insecure and need our God or Gods, although a significant number of young people are agnostic.

Christians here are offering the potential to worship in peace and that is attractive. Then there is the practical side. Many rich Christians are investing in people, hospitals and education in the poorest regions while the government and rich Muslims ignore their plight. My own job is fully funded by a major Christian group. Rich Islamic benefactors build mosques in comparison.

Yantisole
Jakarta

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