Idolatry: On Weaponizing Scripture

By: Daniel Chetwynd

Edited by: Br. Dylan Stewart, CMJ

Editor's Note: In this reflection on weaponizing scripture, social critic and artist Daniel Chetwynd explores the fine line between devotion and idolatry, and how using sacred text to condemn others leads to isolation.

Abandoned Bible at Mansfield Penitentiary. R Dylan Stewart photo

I saw you, many, many, years ago.

You stood up and said being gay was wrong.

I watched you hold up your book, as you yelled into the crowds of people

"This Book tells you so."

I saw you, many, many, years ago.

You stood up and said abortion was wrong.

I watched you hold up your book, as you yelled into the group of people

"This Book tells you so."

I saw you, many, many, years ago.

You stood up and said having a virus was wrong.

I watched you hold up your book, as you yelled into the few people

"This Book tells you so."

I saw you, just the other day.

You were all alone. Still, you religiously stood.

You said the world was in madness, that they’ve taken God out of the schools,

Parents can't discipline their children. You yelled upon the empty streets

"This Book tells you so."

I saw you, today.

Bitter and angry.

You looked like you were living in fear for quite some time.

All because

“This Book tells you so.”

Then,

I spoke.

Not to the crowds, not to the streets, but to You;

The person holding that Book.

I said that for many years I have watched you condemn other’s actions.

I saw that you started with crowds of people and dwindle to loneliness.

I stated, “if that Book had taught you to love and accept people for who they are, maybe more people would like to read it.”

Then I walked away.

                              -You cannot find God in that Book.