Analysis of the Intrinsic and Ethical Nature of Religious Faith

An Examination of Chapter Three of Deception and Divine Religion by Sadeq Khademi

Introduction

Chapter Three of Deception and Divine Religion by Sadeq Khademi offers a profound exploration of the nature of religious faith through the lenses of intrinsic essence and ethical disposition. Grounded in theological, philosophical, and sapiential frameworks, this chapter portrays religion not merely as a divinely revealed or ontologically determined phenomenon but as an inherent quality embedded in human nature, aligned with divine ethics and inner inclinations. Drawing on Qur’anic verses, Iranian wisdom, and ancient sources such as the Zoroastrian Gathas, Khademi presents an innovative interpretation of religiosity that transcends ritualistic formalism and legalistic appearances. This article seeks to analyze and elucidate the core concepts of this chapter, addressing the intrinsic nature of religion, the role of ethical disposition in faith, the notion of divine charisma, and the significance of revelation and illumination in the religious system.

The Nature of Ethical Disposition and Religiosity

Khademi commences the chapter by defining ethical disposition as an intrinsic self-awareness that justifies human actions, inclinations, and conscious endeavors. This disposition operates within an illuminative system intricately linked to an individual’s inner tendencies and existential heritage. In Khademi’s view, religiosity is a natural and divinely bestowed trait originating from a pure conscience and a nature harmonious with divine revelation. This conceptualization elevates religiosity beyond superficial rituals, rooting it in the human soul, where sincerity and love ensure steadfastness in the path of divine lordship.

The Intrinsic and Divine Nature of Religion

A central thesis of the chapter is the intrinsic and ontologically determined nature of religion. Citing the Qur’anic verse, “Indeed, Allah has chosen for you the religion” (Qur’an, 2:132), Khademi portrays religion as a divine gift bestowed upon humanity at the moment of creation. This divine selection, accompanied by inherent purity, safeguards religion from impurity or distortion. By distinguishing between divine “selection” (in the act of creation) and human “choice” (post-creation), Khademi underscores that religion is embedded in human nature and should not be conflated with racial or hereditary constructs. This perspective presents religion as a universal and innate phenomenon, resonant with the divine system of lordship.

Revelation and Illumination in the Religious System

Khademi identifies revelation and illumination as the pillars of the religious system. Revelation, as the divine command in the material world, governs beings endowed with free will, in contrast to the immutable divine decree in the afterlife. Referencing the verse, “Indeed, you do not guide whom you love, but Allah guides whom He wills” (Qur’an, 28:56), Khademi describes divine guidance as an ontological gift realized according to God’s will and the intrinsic nature of individuals. Illumination, as the descending process of creation, enlightens the inner self and is intimately connected to the human heart. This illuminative system transforms religion into a divine word that enters the human soul, directing it toward authentic religiosity.

Divine Charisma and Its Distinction from Charisma

The concept of divine charisma, rooted in Iranian wisdom, represents one of Khademi’s innovative contributions. Etymologically and philosophically, divine charisma denotes intrinsic religiosity and divinely bestowed wisdom, sanctified through universal revelation. Khademi distinguishes divine charisma from charisma, noting that while charisma may lead to chaotic authoritarianism, divine charisma is tied to divine selection and the ontological order. This concept describes individuals naturally endowed for religious, political, or truth-seeking leadership, exemplified by figures like Harb al-Riyahi, who embody intrinsic faith and authentic religiosity.

Challenges to Religiosity and the Consequences of Deprivation

Khademi addresses obstacles to religiosity and the repercussions of being deprived of an ethical disposition. He contrasts traits such as capriciousness, recklessness, and savagery with intrinsic religiosity, noting that these lead to religious aversion or hostility. Deprivation from an ethical disposition drives individuals toward disbelief, hypocrisy, arrogance, and misguidance unless rectified through the guidance of divine saints. Khademi warns that entanglement in deception propels individuals toward the subversion of intrinsic religion and ultimate perdition.

The Role of Humanity in Intrinsic Religiosity

Khademi portrays humanity as a unique entity defined by intrinsic nature, heart, love, and free will. The material world, due to its contingent nature, allows humans to shape their actions and destiny through free choice. Rejecting determinism, Khademi asserts that “human freedom in the material world remains intact,” presenting religiosity as a synthesis of innate disposition and conscious will. This perspective ties religiosity to a passionate endeavor for inner flourishing and alignment with divine will.

Etymology of Religion and Ancient Wisdom

In the concluding section, Khademi explores the etymology of “religion” in the Zoroastrian Gathas, where “daena” signifies a methodical inner self, a binding conscience, and an internal arbiter. This definition aligns religion with divine and intrinsic wisdom, consistent with its revealed nature in Islamic thought. Khademi emphasizes that only religion originating from a divine source holds validity, dismissing human-constructed religions as devoid of authority. This view presents religion as an inner truth requiring discovery, cultivation, and flourishing.

Conclusion

Chapter Three of Deception and Divine Religion offers a profound and sapiential exposition of religious faith, rooted in human nature and divine ethics. By integrating Qur’anic concepts, Iranian wisdom, and religious philosophy, Khademi presents religion as an ontological gift that flourishes through divine revelation and illumination. The concept of divine charisma links religiosity to divine selection and the capacity for truth and justice. Warning against the perils of deception and deprivation, the chapter invites reflection on the essence of religion and the endeavor to cultivate it. Khademi’s analysis not only deepens the understanding of religiosity but also provides a framework for addressing contemporary challenges to faith.