Religious freedom is one of the most fundamental of human rights because religious freedom comes from the dignity of the human being as God's creature.

The quote by Suharto, "Religious freedom is one of the most fundamental of human rights because religious freedom comes from the dignity of the human being as God's creature," emphasizes the belief that religious freedom is an inherent right tied to the very nature and dignity of the individual. Suharto suggests that every person, by virtue of being a creation of God, possesses the right to practice their faith freely. This right is not granted by governments or institutions but is part of the intrinsic worth of being human.

Suharto's statement is grounded in the idea that religious freedom is not just a legal or political issue, but a moral and spiritual one. The belief that individuals are created by God means that their ability to worship according to their conscience is a direct reflection of their human dignity. This perspective places religion and the freedom to practice it at the heart of what it means to be a person, regardless of societal or governmental constraints.

The origin of this quote can be traced to Suharto's time as the president of Indonesia, a country with a rich tapestry of religious diversity. While Indonesia is predominantly Muslim, it has significant populations of Christians, Hindus, and Buddhists, and Suharto's remarks emphasize the need to protect religious pluralism and respect for all beliefs. His view reflects a commitment to ensuring that individuals can express their faith without fear of persecution, a cornerstone of human rights.

Ultimately, Suharto's quote speaks to the idea that religious freedom is not just a societal or political issue but is rooted in the fundamental dignity of every human being. It calls for a respect for the freedom to worship and the acknowledgment of the value of religious diversity in shaping a just and compassionate society.