In simple terms, the statement suggests that there are individuals around the world who genuinely believe in religious teachings and actively work to support those less fortunate. However, these sincere individuals often find themselves at odds with official or organized religious structures because their efforts may not align with the broader goals or methods of established religions.
The deeper meaning behind this quote lies in the contrast between genuine spiritual dedication towards social justice and the structured nature of organized religion. The statement highlights that while many people might have a heartfelt commitment to improving society, especially for marginalized communities, these individuals frequently encounter resistance from institutionalized religious bodies. This conflict arises because official religious entities often prioritize maintaining tradition, hierarchy, and doctrinal purity over grassroots efforts focused on immediate social change. Thus, the quote draws attention to the inherent tensions between personal moral convictions and institutional priorities within religions.
Tariq Ali is a renowned British Pakistani writer, political activist, and historian known for his critical views on politics and religion. His insights often focus on the intersection of power structures with ideological movements, making him well-positioned to comment on how religious institutions interact with those who seek to enact change from within or outside these frameworks.
