Recently I learned that, 90% of Japan people are Atheist. Means they do not follow any religion. The percentage is just opposite to what Indians prefer. Our country is a deeply religious and devout country. About 90% of Indians consider religion to be "very important" in their daily lives, and society is highly pluralistic with large populations of Hindus, Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Jains. Still India is far behind in the race of development as compared to Japan. This made me think, is being Atheist a reason to be developed and successful.
In the recent case of the broken marriage in our family, the family member expresses that the alliance is not in gods will. Although, I believe the issue was with the ego of the family member. But in our country Bhagwan ki marzi i.e. God's will is common slang used when any plan does not go as per plan. It serves as a powerful coping mechanism for uncertainty. It frames the deep rooted cultural belief in destiny (Karma), and helps individuals gracefully accept outcomes beyond their control.
In India, religious practices and public life are closely intertwined. the vast majority of Indians across all faiths pray daily, hold strong beliefs in concepts like karma, and value the freedom to practice their religion without restriction. The mindset of a theist is fundamentally rooted in the belief that one or more higher powers exist and are actively involved in the universe. Theists often experience life with a deep sense of a personal relationship with the divine. This leads to a mindset of reliance, where prayer or meditation is used to seek guidance, express gratitude, or find comfort during hardships. Relying on prayer, ritual, or faith in a higher power to navigate challenges, find resilience, and process grief or uncertainty.
Good without a rulebook.
Unlike Indian, the Japanese people are completely opposite. They do not follow any specific religion or pray a deity. Rather than relying on a deity for ethical guidelines, morality in Japan is often driven by secular, communal, and social duties. The primary drive is to maintain social harmony and avoid causing trouble to others. The Japanese mindset is deeply rooted in collectivism, continuous self improvement, and deep respect for others. They believe in getting the desired results, rather than finding an excuse of way out or leaving something for divine intervention. The Japanese prioritizes social harmony, empathy, and collective responsibility over individual desires. This might be the key for overall development.
We make our own miracles.
Knowing about the japanese mindset and their approach towards life led me to believe that being an Atheist is not bad. Believing in communal harmony is far more better. Here in our country, there is always tension prevails when the ideology of different religion clashes. Ultimately they seek their own benefit. Although non of the the religion taught us to spread hatredness or harm others but the clash of ideology simply spoil the deep rooted religious feeling. The Japanese, behavior is guided by collective responsibility and respect for the greater good, resulting in one of the world's lowest crime rates and highest levels of public safety. Atheism helps Japan by fostering a secular, pragmatic social order where citizens prioritize community harmony and civic duty over dogmatic conflicts over religious topics. May be this is one the main reason for the fast rapid advancement and innovation over all department.
I understand this is a sensitive topic to discuss. Many individuals like me are bounded by the deep rooted practice. We follow what we were taught since birth. However taking a different look at the life may open up new avenues. Like the way atheist favors the social harmony over individuals goals is commendable. I am hoping to get more insight in the the comment section. How you view your life by being an atheist...
In good faith - Peace!!
