Feeding sweets to donkeys

The monsoon failed in parts of Madhya Pradesh, raising the likelihood of drought. Hence, in the city of Bhopal, the donkeys were brought together and were fed sweet (Gulab jamun) dishes. This ritual, they believe, would appease the god of rains, and there would be good rains. NDTV, 19 July 2026)

Appease the gods Most religions have traditions, mantras, and rituals that could control the unknown, including gods and goddesses. They believe misfortune happens because of the gods’ anger. In that case, such gods should be appeased by bribery in the form of rituals or sacrifices. The Bible teaches that God is the creator and sustainer of the universe. He sends rain on the righteous as well as the unrighteous. (Matthew 5:45) Christians believe in worshipping God, who is merciful, sovereign, holy, compassionate, and who listens to the prayers of people.

Rituals without relationship In most religions, rituals are substitutes for a relationship with God. The Bible warns that sacrifices, rituals, offerings, and festivals are meaningless without repentance, faith, and a right relationship with God. Sadly, for them, rituals are formulas to control and manipulate God. Christians are called to trust, love, obey, and surrender to God.

Blind faith or living faith: People of blind faith are those who accept any ritual or practice without ascertaining if they are true, right, or pleasing to God. Rituals are created by human imagination. Christian faith is a living faith that trusts in God, whose attributes are revealed, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who died for the sins of humanity, was buried, and rose from the dead. Superstition tries to control situations with rituals, while faith is surrendering to God to do His will.

Prayers of the righteous When there are drought, famine, sickness, or disasters, Christians seek the Lord, confess their sins, express their dependence on Him, seek His mercy, know His will and obey as he leads. God hears the prayers of the righteous. (Proverbs 15:29)