The manna myth: Why faith alone Isn’t enough, by Folorunso Adisa
For us Nigerians, two topics that consistently prove difficult to discuss are religion and tribe, perhaps politics too. These subjects are so deeply steeped in people’s identities that even a passing remark can touch raw nerves. The lack of tolerance in our society becomes glaring when a simple difference in opinion can unleash a flood of emotions against the speaker.
Religion, especially, can be a tinderbox. The moment a conversation appears to question someone’s faith or deity, it is often met with suspicion or outright hostility. This reveals a deep societal struggle with tolerance, a challenge we must face head-on. Whether we like it or not, diversity is the essence of life. On matters of faith, reaching a universally acceptable conclusion is nearly impossible. Yet, it is precisely this complexity that should enrich our interactions and challenge us to embrace the many perspectives that shape our nation.
We have become so neck-deep in religion that we sometimes risk sacrificing reality and logic. This can lead to a kind of societal hypocrisy where many believe it is only faith, and not effort, that will bring about the changes we seek in our lives or our country. It is important to recognise that faith itself is not the problem; rather, it is how we, as humans, choose to apply it. Faith can build, but humans can destroy. I have learned to be cautious of those who constantly post verses from scripture or project an exaggerated piety, as this can sometimes be a mask for deeper inconsistencies.
Consider, for instance, the man with no source of income, yet with a wife and children, who chooses to attend a religious camp when he could be working as a farmhand or on a construction site to earn a living. This isn’t to say he should abandon his (5)daily prayers or Sunday service. Instead, it reveals a mindset where we have been wired to believe that faith alone will do the majority of the work for us, leaving our own effort minimal or absent.
Show me a developed nation built solely on prayers and not on the pillars of industry and innovation. This is not a critique of faith, but an invitation for us to view faith as a powerful force that inspires action and hard work.
I recall a personal experience here in the UK when my friend was planning his child’s naming ceremony. He asked me for advice on how much to pay the Islamic cleric who would officiate. We hadn’t yet decided when the cleric arrived, not only did he refuse payment, he also brought gifts for the family. After conducting the ceremony, he went straight to resume work at his job. Likewise, I know pastors here who only mount the pulpit on Sundays but hold regular jobs during the week.
We must begin to preach that spiritual blessings and hard work go hand-in-hand. We have to go out and work for the manna; it will not fall onto our laps. We must not allow our faith to blind us to logic or to accept everything our religious leaders say without critical thought. Faith should inspire action, not replace it.
