What is the Importance of Reading Religious Texts for an English Literature Student?

Introduction

We are all aware that religious texts frequently have a significant influence on literature and can provide insight into the cultural and historical context of the works under consideration. It applies to all religions and literatures. The Bible and other Christian texts, in particular, have had a significant influence on Western literature, and many works of literature contain references or allusions to religious themes, characters, or events.  Again, the Quran, Islam's holy book, is a fascinating source of information about Islamic history and culture, or you may be interested in its literary and artistic qualities as you learn about the Middle East. Similarly, readers may find the Bhagavad Gita to be a source of philosophical and ethical insight, or they may be curious about its role in Hinduism and Indian culture, which are prevalent throughout the Indian subcontinent. The Tao Te Ching, a foundational work of Taoist philosophy and a Chinese classic text, can be a good source for understanding Chinese prosperity. So, regardless of faith, an English literature student can gain a deeper understanding of these references and better appreciate the literary works they are studying by reading religious texts.

Religious texts can provide valuable insights into the human experience by addressing universal issues such as love, justice, and morality. These themes are frequently explored in literature and can provide writers with a rich source of inspiration. Students can gain a deeper understanding of these themes and how they have been addressed in various cultural and historical contexts by reading religious texts.

Reading them can help students develop critical reading and analysis skills because they must consider the context, language, and intended audience. This can also assist students in developing their own perspectives on religion and spirituality, which can be an important part of their personal and intellectual growth.

Now, how do you motivate someone to read religious texts secularly?

Motivating someone to read religious texts in a secular context can be difficult because it may necessitate a shift in perspective and a willingness to approach the texts with an open mind.  However, this challenge is acceptable if you are a student reading them for class. 

First and foremost, a student should consider the texts' historical and cultural context. A teacher must encourage his students to consider religious texts in the context of the time and place in which they were written, or the student must teach himself. This can help to make the material seem more relevant and interesting. Again, many religious texts contain valuable moral and ethical teachings. Bringing these aspects of the texts to light may help to make them more appealing to those who are not necessarily interested in the religious aspects of the material. 

Approaching the texts critically, asking questions, and seeking out multiple points of view is preferable. This can contribute to the content being more interesting and thought-provoking. There are many ways to apply religious texts to one's own life. To see how the teachings and lessons contained in the holy texts can be applied to their own lives and experiences, a student must be open-minded. This can contribute to the material becoming more meaningful and relevant. The holy texts can be applied to their own lives and experiences. This can contribute to the material becoming more  engaging and should offer encouragement and support to the student who is reading other religious texts from various perspectives. We must encourage the student to take their time and proceed at their own pace, while also providing support and encouragement along the way. This can contribute to a stronger sense of community and make the experience more enjoyable. And that is the true spirit of secularism. 

Most Popular Holy Texts and the kind of Approaches

Many religious texts can be read and studied on a secular level. Because this is the only world and one larger religion known as Humanity.

Is the Bible good literature for non-Christians?

Regardless of one's religious beliefs, the Bible is a work of literature that can be read and studied as such. Many non-Christian scholars and readers regard the Bible as a historical document as well as a source of literary and cultural analysis.

The Bible is a complicated and multifaceted text that can be approached and interpreted in a variety of ways. Non-Christian readers may find the Bible to be an enthralling source of information about the history and culture of the ancient Near East, or they may be drawn to its literary and artistic qualities.  Others may be drawn to the texts' ethical and moral lessons or to the ways in which the Bible has influenced literature, art, and other forms of cultural expression throughout history.

Finally, whether or not the Bible is appropriate literature for a non-Christian reader will be determined by the individual's interests and goals.  Some people may find reading the Bible to be a rewarding and enriching literary experience, while others may not. Approaching any work of literature with an open mind and a willingness to engage with it critically and thoughtfully is always a good idea.

Here are explanations for each of the quotes I provided:

"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."  This quote, also known as the "Golden Rule," is found in the book of Matthew (7:12). It means treating others the way we would like to be treated. In other words, we should be kind, considerate, and compassionate towards others, just as we would want them to be towards us.

"Love your neighbor as yourself" - This quote from Matthew (22:39) is a commandment to love others as much as we love ourselves. It teaches us to care for and look out for the well-being of those around us, just as we do for ourselves.

"For I was hungry, and you fed me; I was thirsty, and you gave me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you welcomed me in" - This quote is from the book of Matthew (25:35) and emphasizes the importance of caring for the needs of others, especially those in need. It motivates us to be generous and kind to those who are hungry, thirsty, or in need of hospitality.

"He bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. "You have been healed by his wounds" -  This quote is from the book of 1 Peter (2:24) and is about Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. It teaches that Jesus bore the penalty for our sins in order for us to be reconciled to God and live a life of righteousness. It also speaks of the healing that comes through Jesus.

"Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill Christ's law" - This quote from Galatians (6:2) encourages us to support and help one another, especially when someone is struggling or carrying a heavy burden. It teaches us to be there for one another and to be compassionate and caring to those in need.

"Let all that you do be done in love" - This quote from 1 Corinthians (16:14) emphasizes the importance of love in all that we do. It teaches us to treat others with love and to make love the foundation of all our actions.

"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you fed me, thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, sick and you visited me, in prison and you came to me."  This quote from Matthew (25:34-36) speaks about the rewards that come to those who care for the needs of others. It teaches us that by assisting those in need, we will be blessed and inherit the heavenly kingdom.

"Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially those who belong to the family of believers" - This quote from Galatians (6:10) encourages us to do good to all people, but especially those who are part of the Christian community. It teaches us to be kind and compassionate to everyone, but especially to our fellow believers' well-being.

Is the Qur'an a good literary text for non-Muslims?

The Qur'an is a sacred text in Islam and is considered to be the word of God as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. It is considered to be a holy scripture by Muslims and is an important source of religious guidance and teachings. While the Qur'an is primarily revered by Muslims as a religious text, it is also considered to be a work of literature in its own right. It contains a wide range of themes and subjects, including stories, teachings, and moral guidance, and its language and style have been praised for their beauty and eloquence.

As a non-Muslim, you may find the Qur'an to be an interesting and informative read, but it is important to approach it with respect and understanding. It is a text that is central to the faith of millions of people around the world, and it is important to be mindful of this when reading it. It is also important to recognize that the Qur'an is a complex and multifaceted text that requires careful interpretation and understanding, and it is not always easy for non-Muslims to fully grasp its meaning and significance. However, if you approach the Qur'an with an open mind and a desire to learn, you may find it to be a rewarding and enriching literary experience.

The Quran is a collection of revelations given to the prophet Muhammad in the seventh century.  It is considered the word of God in Islam and is a central text in the religion. Non-Muslim readers may find the Quran to be an enthralling source of information about Islamic history and culture, or they may be drawn to it for its literary and artistic qualities. I can't help but quote a few passages from Holly's book: 

Here are a few humanitarian quotes from the Quran, along with explanations:

"And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good" - Surah 2:195

This verse encourages believers to do good deeds and reminds them that Allah loves those who do good.

"Verily, Allah enjoins justice, and the doing of good to others; and giving like kindred" - Surah 16:90

This verse teaches believers to be just and to do good to others, particularly to those who are related to them.

"And do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness" - Surah 5:8

This verse teaches believers to be fair and just, even if it means standing up against the hatred or animosity of others.

"And do good to your parents, and to near kindred, and orphans, and the needy" - Surah 2:83

This verse encourages believers to be kind and compassionate towards their parents, family members, orphans, and those in need.

"And do good to neighbors" - Surah 4:36

This verse reminds believers to be kind and helpful towards their neighbors.

"And be steadfast in prayer and regular in charity" - Surah 2:110

This verse encourages believers to be steadfast in their prayers and to be regular in their charitable giving.

"And do good; surely Allah loves the doers of good" - Surah 2:195

This verse reminds believers that by doing good, they will earn the love and favor of Allah.

Is the Vedas a good literary text for non-Hindus?

The Vedas are a collection of ancient Indian texts that Hindus regard as sacred scriptures. They include a wide range of content, such as hymns, prayers, and rituals, as well as philosophical and ethical teachings. The Vedas are Hinduism's oldest and most important texts, and they are central to the religion's belief system and practices.

You may find the Vedas to be an interesting and informative read as a non-Hindu, but you must approach them with respect and understanding. The Vedas are a complex and multifaceted text that requires careful interpretation and understanding, and non-Hindus may struggle to fully comprehend them without some background knowledge and context. It's also important to remember that the Vedas are a central part of Hinduism and are revered by millions of people all over the world, so keep that in mind when reading them. Nonetheless, if approached with an open mind and a willingness to learn, you may find the Vedas to be a rewarding and enriching literary experience.

"May all beings be happy, healthy, and free from suffering." - Rig Veda

"The greatest virtue is to be free from harming others." - Yajur Veda

"By serving others, one achieves the highest spiritual attainment." - Atharva Veda

"May all beings experience love, compassion, and understanding." - Rig Veda

"Harm not others in actions, words, or thoughts." - Yajur Veda

"One who harms others is harming themselves, as they are all interconnected." - Rig Veda

"Service to others is the highest form of devotion to the divine." - Atharva Veda

"Be kind to all beings, as they are all brothers and sisters in the divine." - Rig Veda

"May all beings be free from fear, sorrow, and suffering." - Atharva Veda

"By practicing compassion and kindness towards others, one purifies their own mind." - Rig Veda

The Bhagavad Gita is a Hindu scripture that is included in the epic Mahabharata. It is a central text in Hinduism and is a dialogue between the warrior prince Arjuna and the god Krishna. Non-Hindu readers who are interested in Hinduism and Indian culture may find the Bhagavad Gita to be a source of philosophical and ethical insight.

Here are a few Bhagavad Gita humanitarian quotes:

"One's own duty, though defective, is better than another's well-performed duty. Death in the discharge of one's own duty is better. The duty of another is fraught with fear" - Bhagavad Gita 3.35

This quote teaches that it is better to perform one's own duties, even if they are imperfect, rather than trying to do the duties of others. It also suggests that it is better to die while performing one's own duties rather than trying to do the duties of others, which may be accompanied by fear.

"Do thou fight for the sake of duty; thou shalt not be touched by sin" - Bhagavad Gita 2.47

This quote encourages the performer of duty (karma yoga) to fight for the sake of their duty, and suggests that they will not be touched by sin as a result.

"He who is pleased with whatever comes, who is fixed in the Self, who has abandoned all desires, he is the highest yogi" - Bhagavad Gita 2.71

This quote describes a person who is content with whatever comes their way, who is fully focused on the Self, and who has abandoned all desires as the highest yogi.

"Be steadfast in yoga, O Arjuna. Perform your duty and abandon all attachment to success or failure. Such evenness of mind is called yoga" - Bhagavad Gita 2.48

This quote encourages the reader to be steadfast in their practice of yoga, to perform their duties without being attached to the outcome, and suggests that this evenness of mind is the true essence of yoga.

"The wise, who are steadfast in yoga, should always try to be established in this evenness of mind, for yoga is evenness of mind" - Bhagavad Gita 2.48

This quote teaches that those who are wise and steadfast in their practice of yoga should try to cultivate an evenness of mind, as this is the true essence of yoga.

Characters from English Literature that need Study from Religion

Here are a few examples of characters from English literature that are closely associated with religion:

Scrooge from "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens is a character who is deeply influenced by his religious beliefs. He is initially depicted as a miserly and cynical character, but through the course of the story he is transformed by the ghosts of Christmas and comes to embrace the true meaning of Christmas.

Aeneas from the "Aeneid" by Virgil is a character who is guided by his faith in the gods and his duty to fulfill their will. His journey from the fallen city of Troy to the founding of Rome is driven by his belief in the gods and his sense of duty.

Esther from the "Book of Esther" in the Old Testament is a character who is deeply religious and uses her faith to guide her actions. She becomes queen of Persia and uses her position to save her people, the Jews, from persecution.

Sir Thomas More from "A Man for All Seasons" by Robert Bolt is a character who is deeply committed to his Catholic faith and is willing to suffer and even die for it. He becomes a martyr for his beliefs when he refuses to sign the Act of Supremacy and acknowledge King Henry VIII as head of the Church of England.

Brother Laurence from "The Brothers Karamazov" by Fyodor Dostoevsky is a character who is a monk and is deeply committed to his faith. He is a source of spiritual guidance and wisdom for the other characters in the novel.

Hester Prynne from "The Scarlet Letter" by Nathaniel Hawthorne is a character who is ostracized by her Puritan community for committing adultery. She wears a scarlet "A" as punishment and becomes a symbol of sin and redemption in the novel.

Meursault from "The Stranger" by Albert Camus is a character who is an atheist and rejects traditional religious beliefs. He is indifferent to the death of his mother and the death of another man, which causes him to be tried and sentenced to death for murder.

Atticus Finch from "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee is a character who is a lawyer and a deeply moral and ethical person. He teaches his children about justice and fairness and is guided by his sense of right and wrong, which is informed by his Christian beliefs.

Siddhartha from "Siddhartha" by Hermann Hesse is a character who is a spiritual seeker and eventually becomes an enlightened Buddhist monk.

Amir from "The Kite Runner" by Khaled Hosseini is a character who is a Muslim and his faith plays a significant role in the novel. He struggles with guilt and redemption, and eventually makes a pilgrimage to Mecca as a way to atone for his past actions.

Aravind Adiga's "The White Tiger" features Balram Halwai, a poor Indian villager who becomes a successful entrepreneur in Bangalore. Though Balram is not devout, Hinduism and Hindu beliefs are depicted as integral parts of his life and the lives of those around him.

The character of Neel in "Sea of Poppies" by Amitav Ghosh is a Hindu who is struggling with his place in society and his own identity. His family is part of the high-caste Rajput community, but he is illegitimate and does not have the same social status as his legitimate siblings.

The character of Narayan in "A Fine Balance" by Rohinton Mistry is a Hindu who is struggling to survive in a society that is rapidly changing and becoming more modern. He is a traditional craftsman, but he finds it increasingly difficult to make a living as his skills become less in demand.

The character of Sita in "The Wild Goddess" by P. Lal is a retelling of the story of Sita from the "Ramayana" from Sita's perspective. The novel explores Sita's thoughts and feelings as she navigates her roles as wife, mother, and daughter-in-law in a society that is deeply patriarchal.

The character Arjuna from the Hindu epic the "Mahabharata" has been portrayed in many works of English literature. In the "Bhagavad Gita," a section of the "Mahabharata," Arjuna is a warrior who is struggling with his duty to fight in a war and his moral objections to it. He turns to the god Krishna for guidance, and their conversation forms the core of the "Bhagavad Gita."

Sita, the wife of Rama in the Hindu epic the "Ramayana," is also a prominent character in many works of English literature. She is known for her devotion to her husband and her moral righteousness.

Conclusion

Depending on one's interests and goals, there are numerous other religious texts that can be studied and appreciated secularly. Any religious text should be approached with an open mind and a willingness to engage with it critically and thoughtfully. Treating others with respect and compassion, regardless of their religious beliefs, is part of a humane approach to religion. It entails recognizing all people's inherent dignity and treating them with kindness and understanding. This approach acknowledges that people have the right to hold their own religious and spiritual beliefs, and it seeks to create a respectful and inclusive environment in which people of all beliefs can coexist peacefully. Comparative readings of sacred texts may foster a more humane approach to religion as well as understanding of literary texts. 

Ardhendu De

Works Cited:

1. Deshmukh, Anshool, and Omri Wallach. “Mapped: The World’s Major Religions.” Visual Capitalist, 11 Feb. 2022, www.visualcapitalist.com/mapped-major-religions-of-the-world.
2. “Major Religious Groups - Wikipedia.” Major Religious Groups- Wikipedia, 1 Mar. 2020, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Major_religious_groups?wprov=sfla1.