18 December 2024
- Author:gospel
- Category:Sermons
1.0 INTRODUCTION
Even as the next post is in the works, there is something worth revisiting. In a previous post, Hassen honored this page with a greeting of peace, by way of a comment. Unfortunately, the platform that brings us together, the Facebook Software or Program or Coded instructions in it, hid the comment, and this was noted by one of the admins who attempted to unhide it – but it has kept on reverting to the hidden status to date.
As to why this happened one can only guess. The greeting may have been perceived to be religiously polarizing or suitable only for a particular faith. It was addressed to Muslims but there is nothing is wrong with that, because the page may have been mistaken as such, or has indeed developed a very diverse following. Either way, the comment should have remained as posted and could have been responded to in the usual manner.
“Assalam” is derived from the Arabic word for Peace – where the Kiswahili word “usalama” (or security) gets its root. For if one has peace, they are also secure and safe. “Assalam Alaikum!” only means “Peace be with You!”. Muslims say it in Arabic because Arabic is their liturgical language just like others use Latin or Hebrew or Greek in the same way.
Importantly, peace be upon you is also the salutation that Jesus used (Matthew 10:12-13). Although it is strange to many today, it is also the salutation used by Pastors in Gospel of God in their normal address to congregations - in whatever language that they may understand.
2.0 THE SPIRIT AND PURPOSE OF THE PAGE
With that small clarification and apology to the concerned, let all be reminded that although the posts on this page attempt to explain the position of Gospel of God as an institution, the general public are not prohibited from responding or giving their opinions as comments and are not prevented from quoting any other publication. The spirit of the page is that of amicable discourse even where people disagree or debate issues.
Having different perspectives or arguing does not and should not make people enemies. The Greeks had some forums where they would sit outside, usually in the afternoons and debate things. They produced great philosophers such as Plato, Aristotle, Thales and Socrates who are still remembered to date. Those arguments were published in books and are still taught in the finest institutions of higher learning. There were probably other people who had better ideas and knowledge but they either kept quiet or their works were not published.
3.0 CONCLUSION
This Facebook page remains a vehicle for public discourse and religious tolerance – to enhance learning of all participants – both active and passive. It is different from exclusive WhatsApp group chats where all members are from one congregation. Once again apologies to whoever would have felt inconvenienced and may all feel welcome and free to interact.
Otherwise the page will remain open and posting will continue during the holiday season. THANKS FOR READING!
