Introduction:

Definition: Customs are established ways of behaving in society, while traditions involve passing these customs through generations.

Transmission: Customs are sustained through tradition, shaping societal norms and behaviors over time.

Body:
Impact of Obscurantism:

  • Definition: Obscurantism is the deliberate practice of making information unclear to prevent understanding.
  • Consequences: This results in blindly following customs and traditions, often suppressing rational thought and promoting practices that can be harmful or discriminatory.

Examples of Harmful Traditions:

Historical Practices:

  • Sati and Child Marriage: These customs persisted due to obscurantism, leading to exploitation and suffering.
  • Animal Sacrifice: Still prevalent in some religious ceremonies despite modern ethical concerns.
  • Female Genital Mutilation (FGM): Practiced in some communities, causing severe health issues.
  • Honor Killings: Justified in the name of caste and tradition, leading to loss of life.

Religious Practices:

  • Nikah Halala and Triple Talaq: Supported by some despite being illogical and harmful.
  • Caste Discrimination: Continuation of purity-based practices leading to social inequality.
  • Gender Inequality: Restricting women’s entry to religious sites like Sabarimala and Haji Ali Dargah.

Contemporary Issues:

  • LGBT Rights: Traditional values casting homosexuality as a moral issue rather than a rights issue.
  • Covid-19: Social gatherings promoted by religious leaders despite public health norms; vaccine hesitancy due to religious beliefs.
    Positive Aspects of Customs and Traditions:

Relevance and Adaptation:

  • Hygiene Practices: Indian customs like washing hands and feet before entering homes, now adopted globally post-Covid.
  • Social Bonds: Customs fostering identity, belonging, and cohesion, such as prostrating before elders.
  • Knowledge Preservation: Traditional medical practices utilizing herbal remedies and natural treatments.

Conclusion:

  • Complex Relationship: Customs and traditions are deeply intertwined with reason and societal evolution.
  • Need for Evolution: Customs should adapt to changing times and social contexts to prevent obscurantism.
  • Guiding Light: Reason should lead the evolution of customs and traditions, ensuring they contribute positively to society.
Legacy Editor Changed status to publish November 12, 2024