It never ceases to amaze me how far people will go in the name of god. To avoid ridicule perhaps, Holyfield wanted to ensure that payments to the church were made regularly. It is sad, that he deemed a financial payment to a church was more important than respecting his wife. Unfortunately, so many share such thoughts. There are many people in dire straits who will continue to tithe while their homes enter foreclosure, utilities are disconnected, and car insurance coverage lapses. Again, will someone please explain that to me? Better still, I'm glad I do not understand it.
While people continue to tithe thoughtlessly with the apparent hopes that their tithing will result in blessings, homelessness rises in the very communities with churches on every corner, drug use is rampant, and of course crime has become the norm. Yet, the sheep continue to tithe. Blacks are especially prone to tithing mindlessly and yet have the worst outcomes of any demographic for every measure. Research has demonstrated that the cheerfullest of givers are the uneducated hoping for blessings in return. Thus, the church is used as some kind of holy lottery (no wonder religious organizations so vehemently oppose legalized gambling). The Holyfield incident clearly highlights the obvious paradox of organized religion. Regardless of good deeds and faith, there is a price for admission. Why do few question this? If Xians believe as they claim that Jehovah is the creator and ruler of all, then what need would he have for money? Further, how do they know the dollar is his currency of choice? Wouldn't he prefer the euro?
Please don't misunderstand. I am not discouraging tithing in the form of time and devotion to improving communities in which churches exist, for that is what I believe tithing is. It is a travesty and in fact grand larceny to rob communities of much needed resources without contributing anything positive. The state of the black community and the black family clearly demonstrate this to be an active practice among black churches in particular and in general. Holyfield beats his wife for not producing proof of their monetary tithes. Had he been truly tithing with her then his faith would be in tact and there would be no reason for proof. So now the real question--is the church an accessory in this beating?
