Do religious people play funny games with the word "patriotism"?

Question

Jesus taught "turn the other cheek," and yet in the buildup to the Iraq war there were many "religious types" who seemed rather enthusiastic about going on a "preemptive strike."

And to add to the puzzle, the peacemakers who favored the things Jesus taught (do unto others and turn the other cheek) were labeled as "Unpatriotic."

Are the "religious" people playing funny games with this word "patriot?" And is this game supported by the idea that I can do wrong things and just pass the punishment on to Jesus? (Which is another thing that Jesus never taught)

More details on my biography.

Answer 1

The couple of people that stood up, in front of the legislature, and publicly were against the Iraq war are of great character. That took balls. Now we are in a war that will never end.

It's was like you couldn't even question the war lest you become a country hating, God hating, bleeding heart liberal.

There is nothing like rabid patriotism with a rabid sense of self righteous religion to back it.

Is there anything worse than this combination?

Answer 2

Patriotism is a euphemism for nationalism.

Answer 3

Your biography could have been a sermon and your rhetoric about patriotism is just so typical of christians - one church slamming the other because each believes that they are the only right church.

Atheist

Answer 4

Religious people don't know what the F they're talkin about.  Ever.

Answer 5

It's more patriotic to stand up against something that you don't like than following the herds of "love it or leave it" patriots...the type of "patriotism" that leads our country into stupid wars is false patriotism.  especially when the wars don't really have a point other than to "spread democracy".  The "religious" people you are referring to do play games with the word patriot as they have been told to do so by their illustrious leader.  They twist the meaning to push the agendas of the imperialists that operate our corrupted government and brand anyone that gets in their way as "unpatriotic".

Answer 6

Yes, they play games with the words "democracy," "freedom," and "patriotism."  I pledge allegiance to God and I know a bunch of corrupt anti-Christian nonsense when I see it.  These church leaders who keep claiming Jesus was for capitalism and wars are liars.  The ones who keep claiming we can make exceptions to the commandments of God and the teachings of Jesus are liars.  No true Christian can join a military; Jesus said no violence, no exceptions even if they are violent against you.

Answer 7

Once, long ago, some wise person said "Religion and politics don't

mix". They were right.

Answer 8

Bush did.