Hi Religion Unplugged readers,
The Molbog people are a Muslim group that reside in the southwest province of Palawan in the Philippines. Believed to have migrated from North Borneo, the Molbog practice Islam in full but retain their own set of traditional beliefs.
Among these is the belief that crocodiles are their ancestors. In fact, writes Rachel Ganancial, the Molbog word for crocodile — “opo” — is the same word used to refer to grandparents.
In today’s top story, Ganancial shares how these beliefs have led to recent crocodile attacks against locals and how many are working to ensure a peaceful coexistence for all.
Why Crocodiles Remain Sacred To The Traditional Beliefs Of Some Muslims
Like all Muslims, Islam and its teachings is for the Molbog a way of life. But for them, crocodiles are considered sacred and their ancestors. In fact, the Molbog word for crocodile — “opo” — is the same one used to refer to grandparents. by Rachel Ganancial
Death Toll Nears 25,000 As Israel-Hamas War Marks 100 days
In the face of the vast human suffering, staggering damage to infrastructure and environmental catastrophe caused by the conflict — which marks its 100th day on Sunday — another controversial post-war scenario is for Israel to rebuild some of the post-1967 Gaza Strip settlements from which it unilaterally withdrew in 2005. by Gil Zohar
Everything You Need To Know About The 2024 US Presidential Candidates
The 2024 presidential race will intensify in the coming weeks following Donald Trump’s resounding win on Monday night in the Iowa Caucus. Here’s a look at who’s running for president this year and what they have said about religion and faith. by Clemente Lisi
3 New Year’s Resolutions Regarding The Importance Of Religious Freedom
In this era where the transcendent is often overlooked, advocating for spiritual and religious freedom transcends mere individual rights. It's about preserving our inherent spiritual dignity and embracing a worldview where spiritual elements like truth, goodness and beauty hold significance in every aspect of our lives. Without acknowledging and having the freedom to explore our spiritual dimensions, we risk passing on a materialistic outlook to future generations, devoid of the profound sacredness interwoven in every facet of life. by Chelsea Langston Bombino
Communities Across The US Recall MLK’s Dream With Prayers and Service
Tributes to the life and legacy of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. took place on Monday across the country and included a mix of politics, faith and community service. This year’s observance — the 38th since its was made a federal holiday in 1986 — commemorated the Baptist preacher and Civil Rights Movement icon's importance to American history. by Clemente Lisi
5 Athletes Who Have Had Their Lives Changed By Loving Christ
The decision by Brazilian soccer legend Ronaldo to become a Christian was one of the biggest stories involving athletes and their faith in 2023. He’s one of five athletes who have been vocal about their Christian faith who now serve as a role model to millions around the world. by Tom Osanjo
Plagued By Controversies, New Mexico’s Sikh Community Persists
The group 3HO is currently made up mostly of white Americans converted to Sikhism, a 500-year-old religion with origins in Punjab, India. Members also regularly practice Kundalini yoga. They wear white and typically live in ashrams and abide by a lacto-vegetarian diet. Alcohol, drugs and sexual relations among the non-married is forbidden in the ashram. by Heerea Kaur Rikhraj
Lil Nas X Marks Comeback In Controversial Fashion With ‘J Christ’
(REVIEW) Famous musician Lil Nas X is making his “comeback” to music — to do it, he’s paying homage to Jesus, “who had the greatest comeback of all time.” The single, “J Christ,” and its music video are saturated with over-the-top, “scandalous” religious images that have generated more than their fair share of controversy. by Jillian Cheney
‘The Book of Clarence’ A Satisfying Remix of Familiar Biblical Movie Formulas
“The Book of Clarence” is an entertaining and God-glorifying hero’s journey story of redemption that – if not for some of its PG-13 material and off-beat style – would be right at home in any faith-based movie environment, but far better quality-wise than most. by Joseph Holmes
Bibles And Magnificence On Display At New York’s Morgan Library
For centuries, the Bible has been central to the spread of Christianity. In the West, Bibles have been a symbol of faith and very often also art. It’s the reason why J. Pierpont Morgan collected these sacred texts in the form of illuminated manuscripts, drawings and early printed books. by Clemente Lisi
C.J. Stroud Praises Jesus As Houston Texans Make The NFL Playoffs
Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud — one of this season’s rising stars in the NFL — isn’t just known for throwing touchdown passes and getting his team into the playoffs. Stroud also made headlines for his faith after thanking Jesus following his team’s 23-19 win over the Indianapolis Colts this past Saturday, earning the team a spot in the playoffs that start this weekend. by Clemente Lisi
Attempting To Define The Faith-Based Movie Genre
(ANALYSIS) As long as they’ve been around, so-called “faith-based films” have been mired in controversy. Whether it’s accusations of bad writing and acting, heavy-handed messages or the demonizing of non-Christians, such movies always seem to be a lightning rod of passionate disagreement. by Joseph Holmes
🐘 Defining The Iowa Evangelicals Who Support Trump: Is Going To Church A Requirement? 🔌
In this week’s Weekend Plug-in, Bobby Ross Jr. focuses on the evangelicals supporting Donald Trump in the Iowa caucuses. Plus, as always, catch up on all the best reads and top headlines in the world of faith.
Don’t forget! You can subscribe to receive Bobby’s column directly in your inbox on Friday mornings!
Thanks again for reading!
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