Bingo ... if it's a religion, it cannot (legally) be treated differently from other religions. But it presented itself as a religion for many centuries before these United States were even dreamt of. Mohammedanism was counted as a religion when the Constitution was written.
Deluded ravings? I agree. I think the same of the Book of MXXXXX. Other folks disagree. Some folks would describe the Holy Gospel according to St. John as deluded ravings. I disagree. Who's to judge? The Supreme Court? I'm pretty sure that's a bad idea.
My point stands. The presumptive equality of all religions is a fundamental flaw in our constitutional republic.
Sadly it appears so. I somehow suspect that if the founding fathers knew how that would be used, they might have worded it different.
Actually, it does only restrict Congress from making laws meddling with religion. It doesn't say anything else about anyone else. Assuming that this restriction on Congress in regards to making laws regulating religion should apply to every one else, is a misinterpretation of the First Amendment.