Answer:
1. The focus of the issue is whether Jose Rizal, the Philippine national hero, genuinely retracted his writings against the Catholic Church before his execution in 1896. The retraction document, which declares Rizal's belief in Catholicism and retracts everything he wrote against the Church and friars, is controversial.
2. It's a secondary sources that discuss and analyze the retraction controversy, including arguments on both sides.
3. In my opinion, the evidence suggests that Rizal likely did not make a genuine retraction. Firstly, Rizal's writings and actions throughout his life, including his final poem "Mi Ultimo Adios" written on the eve of his execution, demonstrate his commitment to reform and nationalism. It seems unlikely he would suddenly renounce these core beliefs.
Secondly, the manner of Rizal's death and burial do not align with a retraction. He was not given Catholic sacraments or buried in a Catholic cemetery, as would be expected if he had returned to the faith. The original retraction document was also never publicly shown, undermining its credibility.
However, some historians argue the retraction was pragmatic, not a true conversion. Rizal may have signed it to receive a Catholic burial and avoid further persecution of his family. But even if he did retract, it does not diminish his heroism or the positive impact of his writings on Philippine independence.
In conclusion, while the retraction controversy continues to be debated, the weight of evidence suggests Rizal likely did not make a sincere retraction, but rather remained true to his ideals until the end. His legacy as a reformist and nationalist hero endures regardless.
