Racism and religion

Racism and religion - The history of Romania is deeply intertwined with the Orthodox faith, which has profoundly shaped Romanian culture, politics, and society. Romanian rulers and boyars played a significant role in promoting Christianity, and the monasteries built as tokens of gratitude to God for victories in battles stand as a testament to this connection. Christianity was officially adopted in Dacia in the fourth century, and over the centuries, the Orthodox Church became a symbol of national identity.

In the Middle Ages, Romanian rulers saw the Orthodox faith not only as a spiritual aspect but also as a political tool to consolidate power and national unity. Many rulers, such as Ștefan cel Mare, Mihai Viteazul, and Constantin Brâncoveanu, had a special relationship with the Church. They built monasteries and churches as signs of gratitude to God, especially after significant victories in battles. These sacred places were not only symbols of faith but also centers of culture and education.

Ștefan the Great, who ruled between 1457 and 1504, is renowned not only for his military feats but also for his contributions to the development of Orthodox spirituality. After each victory, he built a monastery. For example, after the Battle of Vaslui in 1475, he founded the Voroneț Monastery, famous for its spectacular frescoes. Mihai Viteazul, the first unifier of the three Romanian principalities, was also a fervent supporter of the Orthodox Church. He established monasteries and churches, strengthening the bond between faith and nation.

Constantin Brâncoveanu, ruler between 1688 and 1714, was another great patron of the Church. The Horezu Monastery, built in the Brâncoveanu style, is an outstanding example of the architecture of that era and reflects his commitment to faith and culture. These sacred sites continue to inspire and protect communities, keeping the tradition and Christian values of the Romanian people alive.

Romania boasts a rich Christian Orthodox tradition and is home to numerous sacred sites that reflect the history, culture, and spirituality of the Romanian people. According to the National Statistics Institute, at the end of 2017, Romania had 576 hospitals, of which 367 were public, as well as 747 public and private schools and over 28,000 places of worship belonging to the 18 state-recognized churches and denominations. Of these, more than 16,500 churches and monasteries belong to the Romanian Orthodox Church, accounting for 65% of all places of worship.

Thus, we have 50 times more churches, monasteries, and places of worship than hospitals and four times more than pre-university educational institutions. Personally, I admit that there could be more hospitals and greater emphasis placed on educational institutions. However, these places of worship were built by the people, not the state. It was the Romanians’ choice to support the Church and build churches. Orthodox churches account for over 95% of all places of worship in Romania. Other Christian denominations, such as Catholics, Protestants, and others, represent only a small part of the country’s religious landscape.

Romania is a country with a deep Christian heritage, and its monasteries and churches are testaments to this tradition. Throughout history, interactions between different religions have been complex. Romania had a complicated relationship with Islam in the past, particularly during the Ottoman rule. Cultural and religious influences left deep marks on the collective mentality. Despite a historical Muslim minority, most Romanians today identify as Orthodox, and Orthodox culture remains unshakable.

One argument supporting the notion that Muslims are not well-received in Romania is tied to the perception of the Orthodox faith as fanatical or rigid. The arrival of some Muslim communities might be seen as a threat to traditional values and national identity. This fear of “otherness” can lead to the rejection of Muslims as part of Romanian society. If their influence becomes too significant, this will undoubtedly be the case.

The Romanian belief in God is different. While Romania has been a tolerant country and was among the first to offer support during numerous natural disasters, it is no longer tolerant or understanding when it comes to threats against Christianity. Romania even offered support to Turkey, but that does not mean Romania will one day lose its identity. Romanians do not accept the loss of their Christian identity and never will.

The only way I can imagine Romania being drawn into a war is to defend its faith and nation. The history of the Romanians speaks for itself. If necessary, Romanians will surely fight again. Muslims stole Romania’s gold and children—a history that will not be forgotten. Romanians once fought against the Ottoman Empire, which sought to conquer the world, and they will fight again if needed.

Many do not understand the fanaticism of Romanians regarding their faith in God, but this fanaticism is written in the blood of their ancestors. There are many incomprehensible things, and even if Romanians are labeled as racists, they will never abandon God. Even if the entire world map were under Islamic rule, there would always be a corner bearing the inscription of the Holy Cross and God—and that corner would be called Romania.

I don’t believe it will be otherwise. I refuse to believe it will be otherwise. Throughout history, many have tried to conquer the world. Living with the illusion that they will succeed is the greatest folly I can imagine, and fearing that it might actually happen is the second greatest folly. Even if courage stems from fear and one doesn’t know where one ends and the other begins, rather than losing our Romanian identity and abandoning God, we would choose to defend ourselves by singing our country’s anthem and, if necessary, dying in battle until the last one stands.

But that will not happen, because faith in God is the most powerful weapon, and God will not allow it. History has already shown us this.