Laws against blasphemy are based on a belief in an anthropomorphic God, made in man's own image and likeness. They ascribe to Him human characteristics, such as the human weakness of being offended by mere words and insults.

These man-made laws are enacted to defend the beliefs of those who make them rather than the honour of God Himself, who is far removed from such petty human concerns.

Just like faith itself, blasphemy is relative. What is blasphemous to Christians is not blasphemous to Muslims - and vice versa.

It's absurd to think that God would be offended by the puny insults hurled at Him by the insignificant men living on a small planet in one of the billions of galaxies!

John Guillaumier

St Julian's