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In modern society, there are various factors that seem to go
against the continuation of ritual customs and ceremonies. The first of these is
the fast-paced lifestyle that is prevalent in industrialized and westernized
countries. Unlike the steady and unhurried agricultural existence, people now
work long hours in factories, offices, and shops. Additionally, food imports
have reduced dependence on the land, rendering old customs associated with
fertility and propitiation of hostile spirits irrelevant. Moreover, the outlook
of society has changed, with democracy and enlightened religions replacing the
religious and political hold of old-time chiefs.
Although some ritual customs and ceremonies may have a reactionary or malevolent
influence, many others remain good and should not be abandoned. For example,
customs such as hospitality to strangers, giving to the poor, and helping
neighbors in distress should be preserved. Many customs associated with the
dead, like the wake, promote solidarity with the bereaved and have a strong
therapeutic effect. Customs related to courtesy and good manners, like behavior
in public, at the table, and as a guest, also have their place in modern
society.
Rituals and ceremonies that retain their helpful meaning are also worth
preserving. Religious services are more meaningful when they incorporate music,
color, and movement that bring the tenets of faith vividly to life. Ceremonies
like the coronation of a monarch, where religion meets power and authority, and
military ceremonies like Changing the Guard and Trooping the Colors have a
special significance. The wearing of special robes by judges and the Speaker's
procession in the UK House of Commons reflect the dignity of the law. Even
ceremonies associated with receiving a degree, being called to the bar, and
wedding and funeral ceremonies reflect happiness or sorrow and solemnity.
Although modern society emphasizes human rights, sexual and racial parity, and
freedom, there are still barbaric customs in some countries that should be
eradicated. Such customs include Suttee, the harem, slavery, female
circumcision, the cutting off of hands for theft, floggings, and automatic
torture and deprivation of prisoners, whether political or criminal. There is no
place for such practices in the modern world.
In conclusion, while some ritual customs and ceremonies may have lost their
original significance, others remain an essential part of modern society. They
enrich the lives of people whose existence could become barren and humdrum if
the past were to be discarded. Therefore, we should retain the valuable customs
and ceremonies that have stood the test of time while discarding the barbaric
and meaningless ones. |
