The Meaning of Religion

Chapter 11 of Strayers Ways of the World, details the spread of Islam. prominent between 600 and 1600 and encompassing parts of Africa, Europe, the Middle East and Asia, it was more than a religion, it became a cultural phenomenon and a way of life. It is one of the largest and most influential of all religions. But with the main religions of the world having such profound and persistent part of our history, and an  pervasive hold on most civilizations- it is imperative that we at some point ask ourselves what the true implications of religion's hold in our past and present societies are. 

On the surface- it would appear that religious devotions is intrinsically motivated by an individuals thirst for spiritual depth. It would also appear on the surface, that religion serves a benevolent purpose for/in our society..

As we take a deeper look, starting with many of our civilizations of the Classical Era, in a world where the population was already soaring to levels that had been unimaginable just a few thousand years before, in a tumultuous world that was reacting to the full effects of the agricultural revolution and in a world where imperial struggles for power and control were, as they continue to be today, at the forefront of historical events.  It seems as though religion has always been a seminal part of frictions between groups of peoples.
With all of the above considered, It would appear that religion is not only a cause for many of these struggles but also a failed attempt at keeping the masses under localized control of one governmental entity. As we have seen in our studies, once a religion was adopted and implemented, it was forced upon the masses. And this generally came with promises of eternal bliss for the good and of eternal damnation for those who did bad. This is seeing with Islam, which continues to have a pervasive hold in today's political climate. Many of its tenets, if applied successfully to the masses, ensure an obedient society which is too afraid to rebel or ask questions, too occupied with endless ritual to concern themselves with everyday realities of this life, and so hopeful that just maybe it will just be better in a different life. And not coincidentally, this religion embraced commercialism and trade- which was imperative for the marginal Arabia where it originated. Mecca became an important trade center. Islam's pervasive need to gain control over the masses was even more apparent during the 18th century, which is when its proselyting nature became more apparent. This proselytizing nature is second only to Christianity.
It is important to recognize the dangers of religion as we study about their hold in our past and present societies. If we continue to see religion as a necessary part for all to adopt, we will continue to see blood shed and repeat the same mistakes.
The word Muslim means 'one who submits'. Unfortunately, blind and unquestioning submission by entire groups of  people is dangerous and leaves much to question about our future.