God

[sodabandito]

I am extremely alone and it makes me extremely unhappy. It causes me to be a negative conduit in my everyday life and gives me the viewpoint that the world pretty much sucks. I don't want to be this way, but I am trapped. The only way I can be useful to you is if I am free...Please lend me your hand and lead me from this prison of darkness and discontent.

[Hikaru Zero]

Get this book:

What the Buddha Taught by Walpola Rahula

In it, it explains the philosophical side of Buddhism without all the religion B.S. It shows you (in a somewhat easy to understand kind of way) the truth, and explains many things. Not everything, of course, only a few things, but they will definately set you on the right path.

I am only 1/4 of the way through the book but so far, it's already helping me.

It'll teach you the Four Noble Truths:

1) Dukkha (the truth of ongoing material suffering and pain, though there is more to it than that)
2) The arising of dukkha (what causes dukkha)
3) The cessation of dukkha (what ends dukkha)
4) The path leading to the cessation of dukkha ('nuff said)

Read it!

[capricorn]

I am extremely alone and it makes me extremely unhappy. It causes me to be a negative conduit in my everyday life and gives me the viewpoint that the world pretty much sucks. I don't want to be this way, but I am trapped. The only way I can be useful to you is if I am free...Please lend me your hand and lead me from this prison of darkness and discontent.
Sorry I can't be of any help to you Sodabandito, I'm kind of in the same place...

Hikaru, you seem so smart and real! I love that quote in your sig!

[BlackBillBlake]

First off I just want to say that I'm not trying to 'lead' anyone anywhere.

However I can offer a few comments.
You say you feel alone - and I assume isolatoed/alienated can be added to the list? There are many others in a similar position. But why do you feel alone? Is it because you are actually without anyone to be with, talk to, share with - is it because you want human companionship or even love?
I ask because thats common enough. Or you could just be around people with whom you can't, or feel you can't communicte.

The world sucks you say - but what do you mean by the world? The whole natural order of the universe or just the man-made bits? Or even just some of them?

As to how to get out of it - it all depends on you - in more than one way. First, you have to really want to move onto a different view and feeling about things. You have to try to think positively. I know that might sound like a cliche, but it's absolutely fundamental. A positive mental attitude is the basis really of being able to do anything. Certainly anything positive. I don't mean just to forget or try to forget the very real problems that exist in the world, but try to tell yourself that if you are to have any role in improving things, even if only in small ways, you can only be effective if you are positive.

The other sense in which it depends on you is in terms of spirituality. There are different paths and religions etc. How can you find the way that is appropriate for you personally at this time? Once again it means trusting in yourself (and that requires positivity and confidence). There are many teachings and religions who say 'We have the answer'. Some say 'our answer is the only answer'. The only thing you can do is to trust your own intuition. If some particular teaching has an appeal, if you are drawn in a particular direction, then probably, that may be useful for you at this time.

Generally, in looking at spiritual teachings and philosophies it is good to keep an open mind. However, it's also good to retain some critical thinking too, as 'not all is gold that glitters'. In the end, if you believe in God, Spirit - whatever the name - you have to just trust in That.

[The World of Dan]

The only thing I can say at this point is that you need to be careful not to fall for the lies and half-truths that a lot of religious people might bombard you with to get you to convert to their faith...

I'm not going to tell you what to do, you need to find your own path in life, just be careful you're not lead astray.

UPDATE: but I will also say don't don't go looking for help outside... look INSIDE yourself

[kiss_the_sky]

I found much comfort in the Baha'i faith. It's based upon logic, which helped me alot because I found it really hard to believe in things I couldn't understand. The Baha'i faith is based on all the major world religions.

[Kharakov]

I am extremely alone and it makes me extremely unhappy. It causes me to be a negative conduit in my everyday life and gives me the viewpoint that the world pretty much sucks. I don't want to be this way, but I am trapped. The only way I can be useful to you is if I am free...Please lend me your hand and lead me from this prison of darkness and discontent.Yeah. Maybe you should try laughing at your situation. If you truly understood it, you would. God's with you, the physical universe is with you, and we are with you.

BTW- evils the funniest joke ever created. Or maybe farts. I am not sure which. It's hard to tell which is funnier because they both make me laugh.

[Hikaru Zero]

Also, I don't mean to pressure you into Buddhism; I've only really been looking at it for the past 2 or 3 days.

I'm just saying, reading that book has given me a ton of insight. There are things about the book which I disagree with, but for the most part, it's given me a new perspective to my life, and I've been a lot more calm and happy because of it.

[ryupower]

If you want a personal relationship with God,-check out the Christianity Forums...

It's the only religion that promises a personal relationship, as far as I know...

[Mui]

Ok. if you are having problems and want spiritual help, the worst thing you can do to yourself is attach yourself to a God... believing in a false god is no way to get rid of your loneliness.. Any happiness gained by it is illusionary... but these are my own beliefs, if you believe in god, whatever, do what you want...

Buddhism is GREAT if you are depressed or feeling lonely, it will not tell you the answers to questions, but it will help you look within yourself to find your own personal beliefs and enlightenment... it will put lifes problems in line and will show you the cause of the suffering...
Meditation helps depression

When I was having a hard time, really hard time, I started reading about Zen Buddhism like mad... and it really changed who i am... and helped me find myself... it helped me realize how everything runs in circles and good times will always come..`

check out ~ a glimpse of nothingness by janwillem van de wetering...

christianity only promises a false relationship with a false god

[ryupower]

Ok. if you are having problems and want spiritual help, the worst thing you can do to yourself is attach yourself to a God... believing in a false god is no way to get rid of your loneliness.. Any happiness gained by it is illusionary... but these are my own beliefs, if you believe in god, whatever, do what you want...

Buddhism is GREAT if you are depressed or feeling lonely, it will not tell you the answers to questions, but it will help you look within yourself to find your own personal beliefs and enlightenment... it will put lifes problems in line and will show you the cause of the suffering...
Meditation helps depression

When I was having a hard time, really hard time, I started reading about Zen Buddhism like mad... and it really changed who i am... and helped me find myself... it helped me realize how everything runs in circles and good times will always come..`

check out ~ a glimpse of nothingness by janwillem van de wetering...

christianity only promises a false relationship with a false god Errrm...okay, than why do miracles happen? IN JESUS NAME? Why do TONGUES exist??

I don't go all 'oh your God is False' like a jerk. Who died and made you king, antichrist?

Atleast be TOLERANT of other beliefs, in the non-denominational religious boards.

And you call us Christians narrow-minded...tch, aethiest.... interesting that you guys go at christians first...hmmm?

...Stinkin' Devil...

[Mui]

Errrm...okay, than why do miracles happen?
LOL they dont.


Man, you don't have to diss and be all offending...you're even worse than a Christian fundamentalist!(that be me)
I never killed someone for believing in God so i wouldnt say im worse than achristian fundamentalist...
but i am just giving my opinions that is all... i think that god is another attachment people should get rid of to become better people.


I, atleast, don't go all 'oh your God is False' in a jerk's way. Who made you king, antichrist?
Im just giving my opinions, i could really care less if I offend someone that believes in god.


What makes you think your God's so right? What DISPROVES the Christian/Jewish/Muslim God?
Nothing proves it... there is no proof for a god, so i have no reason to believe in god. As far as what I can see, and be sure of, is that religion causes suffering, war, and pain.

I dont have a god. What the masses believe doesnt mean shit. There is no 'believing in' buddha... buddhism isnt about worshipping anything... its about finding yourself.

If more people out there in the world think smoking crack is awesome, does that make them right? Hell no... i tend to think that that if there is something that the majority of humans believe in, it is usually completely wrong and someone is profiting from their beliefs.


MORE RELIGIONS BELIEVE IN GOD, OR ALLAH THAN BUDDHA!So you believe in god becuase everyone else does?

Atleast be TOLERANT of other beliefs, in the non-denominational religious boards.

And you call us Christians narrow-minded...I am tolerant... I have christian friends, I dont drown them or burn them at the stake like christians have in the past.
Im just giving my beliefs, and if being tolerant means not displaying my beliefs, i choose to be intolerant.

You did a nice job of editing your post, Why do tongues exist? take a physical anthropology class and learn something about evolution..

do not worry I do not judge you for your beliefs, I truly think christians mean to be good people, but more often than not their beliefs cause suffering and pain...


How can i become any more tolerant of christians? I dont really think I was being intolerant at all, i wasnt attacking anyone for their beliefs, i was sharing mine... i didnt go YER ALL STUPID COZ U BELIEVE IN GOD!!

And you call us Christians narrow-minded...tch, aethiest.... interesting that you guys go at christians first...hmmm?

...Stinkin' Devil...This is the real face of intolerance, some 15 year old whining because I called her god a false god.

We go at christians first because they used to murder us back in the day... but I hate all religions equally, islam, christianity, judaism... all a big load of shit to me.

[ryupower]

LOL they dont.

I never killed someone for believing in God so i wouldnt say im worse than achristian fundamentalist...
but i am just giving my opinions that is all... i think that god is another attachment people should get rid of to become better people.

Im just giving my opinions, i could really care less if I offend someone that believes in god.

Nothing proves it... there is no proof for a god, so i have no reason to believe in god. As far as what I can see, and be sure of, is that religion causes suffering, war, and pain.

I dont have a god. What the masses believe doesnt mean shit. There is no 'believing in' buddha... buddhism isnt about worshipping anything... its about finding yourself.

If more people out there in the world think smoking crack is awesome, does that make them right? Hell no... i tend to think that that if there is something that the majority of humans believe in, it is usually completely wrong and someone is profiting from their beliefs.


So you believe in god becuase everyone else does?

I am tolerant... I have christian friends, I dont drown them or burn them at the stake like christians have in the past.
Im just giving my beliefs, and if being tolerant means not displaying my beliefs, i choose to be intolerant. And Nothing disproves God either.

The people that kill for their faith, aren't true christians, it's a common missconception. THE BIBLE CONDEMNS MURDER.

It's weird that the first thing that pops in someone's mind when they hear 'Christian' is always 'catholocism'...sheesh....they didn't even know the Bible back then.


The Bible itself has proof. BIG PROOF in fact...


And, BTW, yes, miracles happen, not to you, you're not a believer. But go in any Penticostle Church and faint of shock.

Miracles happen all the time, but those who are blind don't seek, or listen.

[Mui]

And Nothing disproves God either.
Lots of things not only disprove god but disprove things in the bible and things taught by the church... christian beliefs have changed over the years as science has repeatedly proven their beliefs wrong.


The people that kill for their faith, aren't true christians, it's a common missconception. THE BIBLE CONDEMNS MURDER.
Not just killing for your faith, but killing anything... I do not think anyone is a true christian... so many christians justify killing things... like killing for your government, things like that are overlooked by christians...
At least buddhism hasnt caused any wars or deaths... never been some crazy lunatic buddhist running around murdering anyone... s'never happened.


It's weird that the first thing that pops in someone's mind when they hear 'Christian' is always 'catholocism'...sheesh....they didn't even know the Bible back then.When have i singled out catholicism at all? I havent. Ch


The Bible itself has proof. BIG PROOF in fact...

And, BTW, yes, miracles happen, not to you, you're not a believer. But go in any Penticostle Church and faint of shock.

Miracles happen all the time, but those who are blind don't give them any attention.What is this proof? The bible has no proof in it... I'de like for you to show me this proof of god in the bible... as the bible is a book written by man and by the words in the bible, that makes the bible itself wrong because it says man will always have error.

You are too blind to look beyond the traditions and beliefs you were raised with and grew up around.

You threw the first stone, dont act like ive never read the bible before.

You arent a christian, you do not remind me of jesus at all.(i only say this becuase of your "not a true christian" statement... i dont want to argue with you anymore)

How can you honestly act like jesus if youve never met the man, I do not think jesus would have condoned things christians have did in his name for the past 2000 + years... best you can do is take whats in the bible, but there are so many stipulations that I believe no one can claim they are christ-like.
Especially a self proclaimed christian fundamentalist.



You dont have to get worked up about it, i know that being unchristian really riles up self-proclaimed christians.. but we arent going to change eachothers minds, at least you definitely arent going to change mine... so the best we can do is agree to disagree... coz to me you are just a 15 year old girl whose beliefs were entirely shaped by the environment around them... and for that i do not hate you, i completely understand... i have friends and relatives that are the same way, they are good people... i just disagree with them.

[ryupower]

Lots of things not only disprove god but disprove things in the bible and things taught by the church... christian beliefs have changed over the years as science has repeatedly proven their beliefs wrong. /WRONG. There's LOTS of proof.
And give me something that 'disproved' christianity.


Not just killing for your faith, but killing anything... I do not think anyone is a true christian... so many christians justify killing things... like killing for your government, things like that are overlooked by christians...
At least buddhism hasnt caused any wars or deaths... never been some crazy lunatic buddhist running around murdering anyone... s'never happened.

When have i singled out catholicism at all? I havent. Ch You didn't understand. Catholocism is the one that started all the wars and is stereotypical christian faith for non-believers. Back then, the crusades, etc....were done by catholics. AND THEY DIDN'T EVEN KNOW THE BIBLE!!


What is this proof? The bible has no proof in it... I'de like for you to show me this proof of god in the bible... as the bible is a book written by man and by the words in the bible, that makes the bible itself wrong because it says man will always have error. the leg stubs in snakes, the ark, WHICH HAS OFFICIALLY BEEN FOUND, FULFILLED Prophecies, etc...
many things. Want a site or something?



You are too blind to look beyond the traditions and beliefs you were raised with and grew up around. EXCUSE ME? RAISED with?! My parents are new agers for God's sake! And they hate the fact that I'm a christian! I used to be a New Ager myself!
I STUDIED witchcraft, other religions, other traditions, meditation, occult, etc.etc...
I was even ready to do it myself! I cared about everything but Christianity! -until I got saved.
I decided to take this path myself, with no support of my parents.
[/QUOTE]
You threw the first stone, dont act like ive never read the bible before.

You arent a christian, you do not remind me of jesus at all.(i only say this becuase of your "not a true christian" statement... i dont want to argue with you anymore) How am I not a true Christian? I OBEY the Bible, and asked Jesus in my heart! But I'm still working on myself, to become more like him.


How can you honestly act like jesus if youve never met the man, I do not think jesus would have condoned things christians have did in his name for the past 2000 + years... best you can do is take whats in the bible, but there are so many stipulations that I believe no one can claim they are christ-like.
Especially a self proclaimed christian fundamentalist.
I just explained the 2000 years in the past issue, they didn't know the Bible, IT WAS IN LATIN!!


You dont have to get worked up about it, i know that being unchristian really riles up self-proclaimed christians.. but we arent going to change eachothers minds, at least you definitely arent going to change mine... so the best we can do is agree to disagree... coz to me you are just a 15 year old girl whose beliefs were entirely shaped by the environment around them... and for that i do not hate you, i completely understand... i have friends and relatives that are the same way, they are good people... i just disagree with them. I'm not 'getting worked up' about it for nothing, I'm just defending my beliefs. I wasn't the one who called everything but christianity true, that was a direct, and ignorant, attack to people's faith by you.
I'm not trying to convert him, I was just telling him that Christianity's the only belief I know that gives you a personal relationship with God, because he said that he felt alone... I was stating a neutral oppinion,
and you go: "NO! NO!!Anything but that!".

You're trying to prevent the person who created this thread from being christian, you try to force him to believe as much as 'any other religion will do, just not this one'! He should decide his own faith though, it's not our responsibility, let him choose to follow whatever he wishes, and whatever his heart desires.


And besides, comments like 'your false god' shouldn't be posted in the non-denominational forum, but in the atheist ones. I don't give a crap of how much you diss the Christian/Islam/Jewish god, or any other god, in that one. Because it's made for atheists,- not christians, jews,hindus, or whatever.

[Mui]

/WRONG. There's LOTS of proof.
And give me something that 'disproved' christianity.
Church used to believe the earth was flat, science found it wasnt, church changed to evolve with science.

Church used to believe the earth was in the center of the universe, science found it wasnt, church changed to evolve with science.

Church used to believe in creationism, now its evolved to work with evolution.

Church used to believe in magical sphere around t he earth, science disproved it, and the church changed once again.

Must I list even more?
Because I can.


the leg stubs in snakes,
LMAO that is proof of evolution not christianity.

the ark, WHICH HAS OFFICIALLY BEEN FOUND
I dont believe the arc ever existed or was ever found, that story is complete bullshit.. dont believe everything you read on the internet

, FULFILLED Prophecies, etc...
Like what? Prophecies use symbols that could mean just about anything.


many things. Want a site or something?
Yes. Show me what website you claim proves the existance of god (lmao)


EXCUSE ME? RAISED with?! My parents are new agers for God's sake! And they hate the fact that I'm a christian! I used to be a New Ager myself!
I STUDIED witchcraft, other religions, other traditions, meditation, occult, etc.etc...
I was even ready to do it myself! I cared about everything but Christianity! -until I got saved.
I decided to take this path myself, with no support of my parents.
I was assuming, because that is the way of 90% of christians.

How am I not a true Christian? I OBEY the Bible, and asked Jesus in my heart! But I'm still working on myself, to become more like him.
Im sure there are parts of the bible in which you do not obey, it is impossible to fufill everything in the bible... you are not a true christian because you are not like jesus christ, and that is what being a christian is. Living your life to be like jesus is just funny... god, be yourself people... not jesus.


I just explained the 2000 years in the past issue, they didn't know the Bible, IT WAS IN LATIN!!
They did know the bible, they definitely knew it said thou shalt not kill in it, but that did not stop them...

I'm not 'getting worked up' about it for nothing, I'm just defending my beliefs. I wasn't the one who called everything but christianity true, that was a direct, and ignorant, attack to people's faith by you.I never called everything but christianity true.

I'm not trying to convert him, I was just telling him that Christianity's the only belief I know that gives you a personal relationship with God, because he said that he felt alone... I was stating a neutral oppinion,
Thats not a neutral opinion, thats just your opinion

and you go: "NO! NO!!Anything but that!".
That is my opinion... whats wrong with saying that?
other than you dont like it... just cuz u dont like it doesnt mean im not tolerant...

You're trying to prevent the person who created this thread from being christian, you try to force him to believe as much as 'any other religion will do, just not this one'! He should decide his own faith though, it's not our responsibility, let him choose to follow whatever he wishes, and whatever his heart desires.
LOL! there is no way in hell i could prevent the person who created this thread from being christian if they truly wanted to... i was only giving my opinions, nothing more... your just blowing it out of proportion and bitching cuz im not a christian like you, thats not very christ-like.
I was just giving my opinion and obviously i wasnt forcing him into anything...


And besides, comments like 'your false god' shouldn't be posted in the non-denominational forum, but in the atheist ones. I don't give a crap of how much you diss the Christian/Islam/Jewish god, or any other god, in that one. Because it's made for atheists,- not christians, jews,hindus, or whatever.Why not? This forum isnt just for christians/jews/muslims... its also for those of us who do not have a religion and for buddhists... anyones opinions are welcome here, its a FREE SPEECH website... all is welcome... you just dont like the fact that i dont like christianity, so you try to argue with me.

This is the Philosophy & religion forum...atheism is a philosophy, and anyone is free to give their opinions on religion.
My opinions were specially OK in this thread because the man was asking for help, and i gave him my thoughts just like you gave em' yours.

[The World of Dan]

Mui, as much as I realise what you're trying to do... and as much as I'm on your side - trying to talk in terms of logic and reason, to a fundie, is pointless... I used to be the same as you, getting into arguments with them, but it truly is pointless - even if you suceed in making XYZ point, they'll ignore it - because for them, they have such a strict idea of the world, anything that challenges that has to be wrong, regardless of the evidence.

So my recomendation is to just drop it, be the bigger person, and leave the fundies to it... However, should you wish some intellegent conversation with people who share a similar view to your own, you can do a lot worse than checking out http://www.atheistnetwork.net/ - I've been a member there for a while now, and it's a breath of fresh air (oh, and should you want to get involved in Atheist Vs. Theist conversations, they have a forum set-up specialy for that, tho. you might have a better time if you just ignore them altogther)

:)

[Mui]

thats what i was saying before... i dont wanna argue no more... it gets you absolutely nowhere... sharing your views only serves the purpose of finding others who agree with you... cant really expect everyone to bend at your words and convert becuase of you.

[Burbot]

i probobly would have posted in here earlier if i didnt turn into a huge flame war...

but i think one of the last thing soneone needs when they are feeling lonly is people telling them whoch God/Teacher to follow, or to read about...i think that through this persons ow suffereing and life trials, they will find whatever God has meant them to find, and thats whats best...

[nitemarehippygirl]

And Nothing disproves God either.

The people that kill for their faith, aren't true christians, it's a common missconception. THE BIBLE CONDEMNS MURDER.

It's weird that the first thing that pops in someone's mind when they hear 'Christian' is always 'catholocism'...sheesh....they didn't even know the Bible back then.


The Bible itself has proof. BIG PROOF in fact...


And, BTW, yes, miracles happen, not to you, you're not a believer. But go in any Penticostle Church and faint of shock.

Miracles happen all the time, but those who are blind don't seek, or listen.
...reading this made me want a good, strong drink.

ryu, one day you will grow up and start really thinking; for now you are a passionate fifteen year old girl who simply hasn't had the time or experience needed to recognize her own ignorance.

mui, i admire your patience.

peace, :)
sophia

[ryupower]

Church used to believe the earth was flat, science found it wasnt, church changed to evolve with science.

Church used to believe the earth was in the center of the universe, science found it wasnt, church changed to evolve with science.

Church used to believe in creationism, now its evolved to work with evolution.

Church used to believe in magical sphere around t he earth, science disproved it, and the church changed once again.

Must I list even more?
Because I can.
The Church USED to believed this. The Bible never stated it. It was something they made up. If it's not in the Bible, the Christian belief is not accountable for it. And evolution's a theory, NOT a law.
LMAO that is proof of evolution not christianity. OH, Really??

Gen 3:1-15

Now the serpent was more cunning than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said to the woman, "Has God indeed said, 'You shall not eat of every tree of the garden'?"

And the woman said to the serpent, "We may eat the fruit of the trees of the garden; but of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God has said, 'You shall not eat it, nor shall you touch it, lest you die.'"

Then the serpent said to the woman, "You will not surely die. For God knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil."

So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree desirable to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate. She also gave to her husband with her, and he ate. Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves coverings.

And they heard the sound of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God among the trees of the garden.


Now the serpent was more cunning than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said to the woman, "Has God indeed said, 'You shall not eat of every tree of the garden'?"

And the woman said to the serpent, "We may eat the fruit of the trees of the garden; 3 but of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God has said, 'You shall not eat it, nor shall you touch it, lest you die.'"

Then the serpent said to the woman, "You will not surely die. For God knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil."

So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree desirable to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate. She also gave to her husband with her, and he ate. Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves coverings.

And they heard the sound of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God among the trees of the garden.

Then the LORD God called to Adam and said to him, "Where are you?"

So he said, "I heard Your voice in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; and I hid myself."

And He said, "Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree of which I commanded you that you should not eat?"

Then the man said,"The woman whom You gave to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I ate."

And the LORD God said to the woman, "What is this you have done?"

The woman said,"The serpent deceived me, and I ate."

So the LORD God said to the serpent:

"Because you have done this,
You are cursed more than all cattle,
And more than every beast of the field;
On your belly you shall go,
And you shall eat dust
All the days of your life.
15 And I will put enmity
Between you and the woman,
And between your seed and her Seed;
He shall bruise your head,
And you shall bruise His heel."
NKJV

This makes it obvious that, before this, the snake DIDN'T crawl on it's belly.
I dont believe the arc ever existed or was ever found, that story is complete bullshit.. dont believe everything you read on the internet eh-heh, internet? Man, do you ever watch the news? THE ARC WAS FOUND! They talked about all over the news! And also in a bunch of history/science magazines. Not atheist ones, nor christian ones. Secondary
sources stated this!


Like what? Prophecies use symbols that could mean just about anything. Are you kidding me? do you know that the old testament, which was written , like, 2000 BC, all points out to Jesus?? They called him the Messiah, and Jesus fulfilled this.
Among the many Prophecies, were these:
Israel became a nation and that
Babylon will be rebuilt

More on fulfilled Bible Prophecies, incase you're interested:
http://www.geocities.com/dballagh/proof.html
http://www.matthewmcgee.org/prophesy.html
http://www.100prophecies.org/page1.htm

Yes. Show me what website you claim proves the existance of god (lmao) When did I claim proof for God? I said there's proof for the Bible's accuracy.
Some random sites to do with this topic (historical and scientific):
http://www.hope-of-israel.org/scibible.htm
http://www.theicog.org/proof_of_the_bible.htm


I was assuming, because that is the way of 90% of christians.
Im sure there are parts of the bible in which you do not obey, it is impossible to fufill everything in the bible... you are not a true christian because you are not like jesus christ, and that is what being a christian is. Living your life to be like jesus is just funny... god, be yourself people... not jesus. The point is that we're supposed to be sinless.


They did know the bible, they definitely knew it said thou shalt not kill in it, but that did not stop them...
I never called everything but christianity true.
Thats not a neutral opinion, thats just your opinion It's neutral because I wasn't forcing the person to choose a certain belief.
I said the 'everything but christianity true' part because you only pointed out that the christian God was not real, you were quiet about every other God. Yeah, the ten comandments they knew, but that was about it.[/QUOTE]
That is my opinion... whats wrong with saying that?
other than you dont like it... just cuz u dont like it doesnt mean im not tolerant... You offend another religion, that's what. No one minds as long as it's in the
right forum. Because whoever goes into your forum will have to deal with it.
[/QUOTE]
LOL! there is no way in hell i could prevent the person who created this thread from being christian if they truly wanted to... i was only giving my opinions, nothing more... your just blowing it out of proportion and bitching cuz im not a christian like you, thats not very christ-like.
I was just giving my opinion and obviously i wasnt forcing him into anything...
You kept on calling our God a 'false god' as if it was a law. Doing the best you could to prevent him. It's his choice. And why were you only bashing Christianity? You didn't talk about other Gods.


Why not? This forum isnt just for christians/jews/muslims... its also for those of us who do not have a religion and for buddhists... anyones opinions are welcome here, its a FREE SPEECH website... all is welcome... you just dont like the fact that i dont like christianity, so you try to argue with me. You don't get it. If you're gonna bitch about other people's religion, do it where it's called for (it wasn't, in this case). It's not a law, but it prevents strife. Go ahead, continue, if you wish to get into flame wars all the time. :rolleyes:


This is the Philosophy & religion forum...atheism is a philosophy, and anyone is free to give their opinions on religion.
My opinions were specially OK in this thread because the man was asking for help, and i gave him my thoughts just like you gave em' yours. Yeah. With bashing.

We've come far off the main topic, if he's got any questions, he should ask for info on them in the right forum. He's heard two sides, and there are many more. Let him choose, and let's NOT kick any other philosophy out for 'winning' over him, I started with a harmeless comment, and you bash just because you disagreed with it. Thanks for the flame war. Now let's get back on topic.

[ryupower]

thats what i was saying before... i dont wanna argue no more... it gets you absolutely nowhere... sharing your views only serves the purpose of finding others who agree with you... cant really expect everyone to bend at your words and convert becuase of you.
You ignored me commenting: " I'm not here to convert him"

AND I'M NOT! I was just stating an oppinion.

[ryupower]

i probobly would have posted in here earlier if i didnt turn into a huge flame war...

but i think one of the last thing soneone needs when they are feeling lonly is people telling them whoch God/Teacher to follow, or to read about...i think that through this persons ow suffereing and life trials, they will find whatever God has meant them to find, and thats whats best...
I AGREE.

[ryupower]

...reading this made me want a good, strong drink.

ryu, one day you will grow up and start really thinking; for now you are a passionate fifteen year old girl who simply hasn't had the time or experience needed to recognize her own ignorance.

mui, i admire your patience.

peace, :)
sophia
I fail to see the ignorance in that comment. You want to get in a flame war too, ne?
Guess what?
It's not happening! And I'm sick and tired of arguing. And I think mr.Mui here is too.
And why is everybody claiming I'm trying to convert him?? It's his faith, he can choose what he wishes. And I'm sorry if it sounded like I'm trying too...wherever you got that from...

See, If one doesn't bash they can spare alot of debate...

I hate bashing.

[cabdirazzaq]

Whats up with these arguments anyway?
Seriously, who cares if she does or does not try to convert him. So according to you, she is not "allowed" to tell him about God and it is totally premissible to speak about Siddharta?
Did she call Siddharta, evil and a fake buddha as you called God evil and fake? No she did not!
Did she scorn you or anybody here in the thread as you did?
No she did not!

Mui, look at your self for a while and revise your own words before jumping on others.

Claudia, you are wasting time by trying to have a rational discussion with an irrational person.

For surely it is not the eyes that are blind, but blind are the hearts which are in the breasts.[Quran 22.046]

[Epiphany]

...reading this made me want a good, strong drink.

ryu, one day you will grow up and start really thinking; for now you are a passionate fifteen year old girl who simply hasn't had the time or experience needed to recognize her own ignorance. So when are you going to start growing? ;) Last time I read one of your posts on the topic of faith, you felt the need to show ignorance and arrogance by stating that everyone was wrong.


Furthermore, the comparison between followers of Christ's word, and the blood stained hands of our forefather's, "Christianity," is pointless. While the crusades, inquisition, and witch hunts are a crucial part of history, the term, "Persecuted for the sins of their fathers", is a little too cliche, yet fits nicely as a description of your (and many others) rebuttal.

It is quite amusing how many characters here in this specific forum claim they found peace in eastern religions (which most practice tolerance and general respect) yet, will not bridle their tongue when it comes to the onslaught of believers in Christ.

You say that our faith is blind and inaccurate, but apparently yours must be as well since you cannot seem to practice the love it preaches.

[satchmo]

I am extremely alone and it makes me extremely unhappy. It causes me to be a negative conduit in my everyday life and gives me the viewpoint that the world pretty much sucks. I don't want to be this way, but I am trapped. The only way I can be useful to you is if I am free...Please lend me your hand and lead me from this prison of darkness and discontent.

I have found, from personal experience, that how one feels about the present state of their life has as much to do with expectations, as with actual circumstances. What I mean is that there are so many external factors that shapes our expectations, such as, {i} how we see other persons interact, {ii} how relationships are portrayed by movies, books etc. These factors sometimes causes us to subconsciously form unrealistic expectation of our own life. For example; one may admire a particular individual who is outgoing, popular, witty etc., and subconsciously determine that this is how our life should be. Without thinking we spend our time and energy unsuccessfully trying to emulate this individual. The more we fail to achieve this the more we fall into a state of dissatisfaction with our own life.
I am no implying that this is your situation sodabandito, I am just speaking generally. And I think we need to first need to do is a unbiased evaluation of our expectations and circumstance and determine compatable they are.

[TrippinBTM]

If you want a personal relationship with God,-check out the Christianity Forums...
No offense, but that's the last place I'd recommend for learning about Christianity. Too much bickering. Kind of like this thread.

Anyways, I agree with statchmo, happiness comes from within. It doesn't really matter what's happening to you, it's you're reaction and perception of it that counts. Two people can be dirt poor and one will see it as tragic and horrible, that they've been cheated, wronged, etc...while the other person may see it as being quite alright, because he's still alive, has a simple life, whatever. Psychologists agree. I don't remember the exact terms, but I'll use externalist and internalist. Externalists feel reality is happening TO them, internalists feel they make their own reality, and they tend to be happier because they feel empowered. It takes a shift in perception, in consciousness, to get there. Maybe meditation would help, most if not all religions employ meditation in some form, and our un-spiritual science at least concedes that it is relaxing and can improve one's outlook. It certainly is a good method for self discovery, and you know what they say, "knowing is half the battle." How can you change anything without knowing what to change?

[BlackGuardXIII]

I am extremely alone and it makes me extremely unhappy. It causes me to be a negative conduit in my everyday life and gives me the viewpoint that the world pretty much sucks. I don't want to be this way, but I am trapped. The only way I can be useful to you is if I am free...Please lend me your hand and lead me from this prison of darkness and discontent.
The Galaxy Song
Monty Python
.
Just remember that you're standing on a planet that's evolving
And revolving at nine hundred miles an hour,
It's orbiting at nineteen miles a second, so it's reckoned,
Round a sun that is the source of all our power.
The sun and you and me and all the stars that we can see
Are moving at a million miles a day
In an outer spiral arm, at forty thousand miles an hour,
Of the galaxy we call the 'Milky Way'.
.
Our galaxy itself contains a hundred billion stars.
It's a hundred thousand light years side to side.
It bulges in the middle, sixteen thousand light years thick,
But out by us, it's just three thousand light years wide.
We're thirty thousand light years from galactic central point.
We go 'round every two hundred million years,
And our galaxy is only one of millions of billions
In this amazing and expanding universe.
.
The universe itself keeps on expanding and expanding
In all of the directions it can whizz
As fast as it can go, at the speed of light, you know,
Twelve million miles a minute, and that's the fastest speed there is.
So remember, when you're feeling very small and insecure,
How amazingly unlikely is your birth,
And pray that there's intelligent life somewhere up in space,
'Cause there's bugger all down here on Earth.
.
Sung by Eric Idle in "The Meaning of Life"

[Burbot]

Why is it that when Christains defend their faith, they are being closed minded and ignorant, but when other of non-Juedeo-Christain/Islamic faiths are being paitent?

[ryupower]

Claudia, you are wasting time by trying to have a rational discussion with an irrational person. How'd you know my name?! :eek:

And that's A good quote from the Quaran...

[cabdirazzaq]

Through ICQ
ryupower makes me remember my favorite video game when I was small.
I really loved that, I used to play SF2 until my eyes hurted and my thumbs had bruises. Albeit, there is no point in arguing with an irrational person unless you want a headache.

[ryupower]

Through ICQ
ryupower makes me remember my favorite video game when I was small.
I really loved that, I used to play SF2 until my eyes hurted and my thumbs had bruises. Albeit, there is no point in arguing with an irrational person unless you want a headache. Lol. That ICQ user was YOU?!

heh. I wanted to accept, but there was another message waiting...:(

Of coarse I only noticed your name after I clicked the 'next message' button..:(

[BlackBillBlake]

Get this book:

What the Buddha Taught by Walpola Rahula

In it, it explains the philosophical side of Buddhism without all the religion B.S. It shows you (in a somewhat easy to understand kind of way) the truth, and explains many things. Not everything, of course, only a few things, but they will definately set you on the right path.

I am only 1/4 of the way through the book but so far, it's already helping me.

Is it really wise to promote a book you haven't even read through? What if half way through you come across something which is not acceptable to you?
Can a book show you the truth? Ah..if only it were that simple!

[Mui]

i refuse to revise my words to make christians less offended... i will say my opinions exactly how I mean them and I do not regret saying anything.
I think christians believe in a false god (every theistic religion does), that is my opinion, i wasnt forcing it on anyone or trying to start a flame war... you can even look at my first post, i said "if you are christian than well whatever"
I wasnt trying to offend christians I was giving my opinions which I guess inherently offends christians... and if that is so, than so be it... i dun really care.

and dont think for a second my opinions shouldnt have went in this post... philosophy & religion is open for all opinions and any religious or nonreligious background.

[Kharakov]

I think christians believe in a false god (every theistic religion does), that is my opinion, i wasnt forcing it on anyone or trying to start a flame war... you can even look at my first post, i said "if you are christian than well whatever"
I think christians lie about God, but believe in the true God. Lot's of times preachers will select verses from the bible to support their lies about God and throw in a smattering of truth (just enough to hook you).

Just the other day I went to a Jehovah's witness kingdom hall to watch this young guy speak for the first time- I was a little bit stoned at the time and the guy (in the middle of his speach) was talking about how it is evil to smoke weed, which I found hilarious (knowing that God set up the whole scenario- whether or not the preacher knows he is being used as a fool (jester/clown) for God is another story).

[ryupower]

I think christians lie about God, but believe in the true God. Lot's of times preachers will select verses from the bible to support their lies about God and throw in a smattering of truth (just enough to hook you).

Just the other day I went to a Jehovah's witness kingdom hall to watch this young guy speak for the first time- I was a little bit stoned at the time and the guy (in the middle of his speach) was talking about how it is evil to smoke weed, which I found hilarious (knowing that God set up the whole scenario- whether or not the preacher knows he is being used as a fool (jester/clown) for God is another story).
If they lie they'd disobay G-d. So if they do so infront of you while PREACHING, -they're not true christians.

[Kharakov]

If they lie they'd disobay G-d. So if they do so infront of you while PREACHING, -they're not true christians.
They are just christians telling a lie in that case. Sometimes it is good to lie (have you ever heard of sarcasm?) because it is funny, however some comedy is not understood by children, so it is nice to tell them the truth as well.

[Little flower]

i am very very very happy in wicca, but i believe we should all find our own path.
enjoy finding yours :)

[gdkumar]

"I am extremely alone and it makes me extremely unhappy. It causes me to be a negative conduit in my everyday life and gives me the viewpoint that the world pretty much sucks. I don't want to be this way, but I am trapped. The only way I can be useful to you is if I am free...Please lend me your hand and lead me from this prison of darkness and discontent."

Hare Krishna!

Dear Sadabandito,

It was nice to read that. From the heading (God) I have formed my personal opinion.
You are one of those few fortunate ones who get into this trap, "the divine trap" . Everybody, someday, sometime in walks of life, gets caught into this trap. You develop dislike towards all material things, you feel being alone despite being surrounded by all, you suddenly feel that you are an alien on this earth and you really do not belong here. That gives the birth to the only significant and all important quest, "Who am I?"

Sadabandito, dear, you are supposedly under that spell for which people all over the world knowingly or unknowingly wait. The best disease one can have is the disease of dislike towards all material things. Yes, the caption was rightly chosen by you. It is God alone who can find a remedy for you. The best thought towards that direction is, "As you desire, so you get." If you want Him alone with all your answers, undoubtedly you will get that alone. For that, the best mental make-up is the thought that "It's not me, it's not me - it's You , it's only You." Practising this in everything that you do will lead you to surrendering at His lotus feet.

It is good to read and know about religions but that should be only to enrich your knowledge about God and how to inch forward towards Him. Please, for dear God's sake, do not read or know about religions just to establish superiority of one religion over the other. That is absolutely nonsensical. We must not forget that all religions talk about one God only and let us have no doubts that all religions came into existence because of God. God is not for the religions. Take the best from all religions to succeed in your quest, that should be the intelligent and expedient approach.

Lords Jesus, Mohammed, Buddha, Nanak, Krishna....endless names, for sure do not belong to any particular community or religion. Because the religions followed them, they did not follow any religion. They belong to the mankind in general, let us benefit from their teachings.

I only hope the above helps you a little. I also hope not to get involved into any unfortunate arguements.

With love, best wishes and prayers,

Kumar.

[FreakerSoup]

1. Listen to some good music. Bands I recommend are: Blind Melon, Aquabats, Beck, Association, Beatles, Tom Lehrer, Velvet Underground, etc...If you want more, send me a message, I'll blow your mind away.

2. Become a chocaholic. It works, and it's oh so good.

3. DO NOT run to a religion. They will suck you right up, and make everything you love a sin.

4. Have deep thoughts. Lie on the ground and stare at the clouds. Or the grass, it's pretty cool, close up. Find the beauty in the trees, the animals, and basically the world you live in. It's everywhere.

5. Eat right and exercise. Last year I was on dorm food and active for about 2 hours a week, and I was really depressed. Now I ride my bike to school and eat better (a little) and it's all good. Ultimate frisbee is good too, 'cause it's all about sportsmanship.

6. This one's a detail, but be honest. It's very cathartic, and good for your soul.

Peace.

[Phoenix2959]

Actually, folks. There is no proof of any "True" religion. There are thousands of faith systems around, so that should show that a persons belief system is purely personal.
Whatever "Higher Power" there is, They are obviously known by thousands of names. The original bible was written in 'old hebrew' and translated by scholars who knew Latin. Then it was translated from Latin to Englishby scholars who spoke Italian. As we all know, meanings get lost in translation...even from English to English. Why can't everyone just use common sense and be nice? Basics in all religions!

Phoenix

[The World of Dan]

DO NOT run to a religion. They will suck you right up, and make everything you love a sinAmen brother...