Madoff and Bin laden Compare and Contrast

Thursay night as reported today in the NY Times a meeting was held at the YIVO Institute for Jewish Research to discuss Madoff: A Jewish Reckoning.  Comparing Madoff and BinLaden.... I asked myself the following:  

Has each portrayed himself as an enthusiastic follower of an organized religion - Yes

Did each violate clear principles of that religion  - Madoff Yes, Bin Laden - many who know more than me say yes, Bin Laden would say no

Did each cause harm to members of his religion - Madoff targeted and prayed on Jewish individuals and Jewish non-profits.  Bin Laden's actions have been an excuse for anti-muslim prejudice in the non-muslim world,  though he would disagree I expect

Reaction from members of each religious group - from the report of the seminar Jewish Americans feeling betrayed and also wondering, worrying if this will increase anti-semitism.

The Muslim reaction covers a broader range, from outright support to complete rejection and condemnation.

What strikes me most is that each has taken their acceptance by members of a religious group and used it to cause great harm to many members of that group, as well as people outside that group.

One old lesson, proclamations of religious faith and outward adherence of religious devotion are not sufficient proof of a struggle to understand God's will.  All religions require we care about our fellow humans.  Neither Madof or Bin Laden fed the poor, clothed the naked, gave succor to those who suffer.  Though both claimed to do so.  Both practiced destruction.