Proselytizing

As a critic of monotheism, I must fight the tendency to lump all monotheist religious traditions together. This is especially true about the Big Three Abrahamic religions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. There are important differences between them.

The difference I want to focus on is proselytization.

Proselytizing is largely a Christian and Islamic practice. Of these two, Christians are the most intense about conversion. Some Christians, especially American Evangelists, show a near obsession with proselytization.

Proselytization is not a major element in Judaism. According to Rabbi Jonathan L. Hecht at ReformedJudaism.org, since Judaism historically has been a minority religion restricted from proselytizing, it’s never been a major element of the faith. He points out that with the rise of the free marketplace of ideas there has been a quiet increase in some outreach programs and an increase in conversions. However, proselytization in Judaism is still nothing like that of the other two Abrahamic religions.

We Pagans aren’t into proselytizing. In fact, we tend to be rather private about our faith. You would probably be surprised how many of your co-workers and neighbors are Pagans. One reason for our privacy is safety. Even here in the West, it’s not always safe for others to know you’re a Pagan.

Sharing, discussing, studying, even critiquing each other’s beliefs are all good and should be encouraged. Doing so builds bridges and makes the world a better place.

Proselytizing disrespects others and their beliefs.