Addressing Religious Ambivalence

Abstract

This editorial explores the ambivalence of religion—its capacity to serve as a source of both violence and peace—as posited by Appleby and Gopin. It further extends this ambiguity to other contexts: religion can legitimize power or function as a tool for resistance; it may foster clean governance or, conversely, facilitate corruption through doctrines of forgiveness. Scholars have offered various responses, including the deconstruction of texts, objective critical study, contextual religious education, and the reinterpretation of doctrines. While there is no panacea, this ambivalence must be approached with care, wisdom, and a critical perspective to ensure it does not incite discrimination, violence, or intolerance.