Child Abuse by Religions: Children Must Be Rescued from Religion and Restored to Humanity. (Woman in Religions)

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Our children are our own. They are ours to thrash or kill, if we choose; who are you to poke your nose in?" Yes, millions of parents still feel that way, in every part of the world. They justify harsh punishments with dictums like "You can train a plant but not a tree," or "Spare the rod and spoil the child." Too many traditional religions encourage parents to regard children as their property--or to believe that the more children they have, the better. "A child has not only a mouth but also two earning hands." Where do sayings like these come from? Which social institutions underlie much of the child abuse endemic to the world today, yet are scarcely ever accused by name? Religions, of course. It is religions that inspire and perpetuate much of the abuse that afflicts children around the globe.

Over the ages, religions have exploited the power of the bond between parents and children, fashioning priestly infrastructures that touch every aspect of life, enmeshing families ever deeper in allegiance. In most cultures this entrapment begins at or soon after birth with the naming of the baby. Parents feel it their duty to abide by religious customs, traditions and rituals. This, in turn, assures a livelihood to the priestly class.

Priests encourage parents to bring their children along when they visit places of worship. Parents obey, often hoping that experiences in the temple, church, …