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The foundation of our religion is very strong. The material is strong as well, but the building itself was neglected for hundreds of years. As the plaster dropped down, none thought to replace it and none felt the need to reinforce the building. Quite the contrary: many foreign elements and interpretations, as well as empty beliefs, came along and damaged it still more.

Mustafa Kemal Ataturk#13

ReligionCultureInfluenceReformStructureTradition

About this quote

What does it mean?
The core of the religion is strong, but its structure has been neglected, allowing foreign influences to damage it.
In plain terms
Religion's foundation is solid, yet its practice has decayed and been corrupted.
What can you take from it?
Renew and protect the essential structure of faith.

Where it applies

  • religious reform
  • cultural preservation

Putting it to work

  • restore traditional practices
  • guard against external distortions

Questions to consider

  • What defines authentic religious practice?
  • How to balance tradition with necessary evolution?

Another view

Labeling foreign elements as inherently harmful can be xenophobic.

More from Mustafa Kemal Ataturk

  1. Religion is an important institution. A nation without religion cannot survive. Yet it is also very important to note that religion is a link between Allah and…

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  3. Everything we see in the world is the creative work of women.

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