Secularism, as commonly defined, refers to a principle or ideology that advocates for the separation of religious institutions and beliefs from the affairs of the state, including social, political, and educational spheres.
In a secular society, religion does not dictate government policies, laws, or public discourse, and individuals are free to practice their religion or hold no religious beliefs without facing discrimination or persecution. The concept of secularism emerged as a response to historical instances where religious authorities wielded significant power over state affairs, often resulting in conflicts and oppression The essence of secularism lies in promoting equality, freedom, and tolerance among individuals with diverse religious or non-religious backgrounds. It aims to create a space where people can coexist peacefully, regardless of their religious affiliations, and where decisions are made based on rationality, evidence, and the common good rather than religious doctrines or dogmas. However, as noted in your text, the concept of secularism can be misused for personal or political gain. This often occurs when individuals or groups exploit the principle of secularism to advance their own agendas, suppress religious freedoms, or promote intolerance towards certain religious practices or beliefs. Regarding the essence of God’s being, various cultures and civilizations throughout history have conceptualized divine powers in different ways. In ancient times, when human understanding of the natural world was limited, people often attributed natural phenomena and cosmic forces to divine entities or gods.
