Hmmm...your question is whether or not you need religion in your life? I don't think that anyone necessarily needs religion, but it helps to put alot of things into focus for some people. Some people use it as an explanation to our existence and purpose, other's use it to tap into their more spiritual roots and questioning. Are you seeking answers with something? Obviously this is an issue to you if your asking questions about it. Maybe Buddism and Christianity aren't your path in life, but just because you've become jaded with these outlooks doesn't mean that there aren't other alternatives out there. It takes time and patience when seeking something like a belief system, and when you find it, it may not fall into any category at all. So, no, you don't need religion. It's a comfort though, and having faith in something other than all that you see around you can be a beautiful thing. Afterall, isn't it kinda nice to think that there is something bigger and better out there than the human race? Even if you find it unexplainable? As for the disliking Christians: Whatever reason people have for believing in what they do is no reason to dislike them, even if they do seem hypocritical sometimes. Remember that they too once asked the same questions that you are, and that they are human and humans are far from perfect. Just give it time, and don't get caught up on what other people believe. They have there reasons, and what is true for them may not be true for you. Don't stop seeking though. Never do that.
Interpreted symbolism... A time of high emotions and what not; may not have been necessary, but, it was relevant.
I went to a catholic grade school...and the only time i went to church was when i was forced to go. being at that school, made me not believe in god and jesus and all that just because i knew...somebody was bored and started a story about a guy he knew that was amazing and sure there probably was a jesus but..why are we still waiting for him to come back...he died. *goodbye* lol. i am not trying to offend anyone but these are my thoughts and just being in a place where ur teachers are always telling you to have faith...and i couldnt take it all i wanted to do was get up in front of everybody in church and just say what i believed in for a change instead of hearing the same old crap every time.. im babbling..
i dont think people need religion in their life either. some people seem to rely on jesus or god or whoever, but why? Im supposibly catholic, or chirstian idk maybe they are they same. but ive only been to church like 3 times and i dont see a need for myself. I think that the only person i should believe in is myself. sometimes i cant even do that, so why would i belive in someone else if i cant even my ownself? Idk but i just think religion starts too many wars and there shouldnt be religion. thats why most wars were started back in the olden days. what you belived in like religion wise, was huge factor on whether you lived or died. its sad really. I dont like that thought at all but its what happened. and that is still going on today, in ireland, and those countries haha i can only think of ireland. but it terrible that people would fight over something like that
religion are spirituality are completely different, IMO. when you're following a religion, you almost feel the need to conform to everything your religion stands for, because status quo tells you it's "right". when you're a spiritual person, you can believe whatever feels right, without getting involved in church politics. i consider myself spiritual...
I am a christian, raised in a presbyterian church. I consider myself christian above any denominational label. I also feel that my set of beliefs (religion) allows me to personalize it and "believe" specifically what my learnings, experiences and philosophies all conclude what is "right". I might add that these beliefs are continually evolving and changing based on my learnings. I have no problem with the presbyterian church but I don't feel obligated to strictly adhere to all of their written doctrines. I do not feel restricted in anyway by religion. To me it is an interesting, and amazing spiritual journey filled with challenges along the way that adds some intrigue and spice to life. I strongly believe in God (and Jesus as the son, messenger, and human embodiment of God) and feel connected to "him" through meditation and prayer. Intrinsically, my basic beliefs are not a matter of logic or rationalization but instead a difficult to describe and seeming primordial "feeling" or "faith" that is unwavering. As far as being hippocritical, I try not to be, but may appear to be. This is because I am far from perfect mentally, physically, and spiritually. If I did feel perfect then I guess I would have to feel that the "journey" is over. It is like deep down knowing that doing something is wrong but you still do it. I think we all have times like this. And afterwards we can feel kind of guilty because it goes against our ideal beliefs (spiritually or non spiritually speaking) of what is right and wrong. This is the same instance where a Christian my appear as a hippocrite. What they preach isn't always how they appear to live. One shouldn't generalize all Christians either. Many have their own unique interpretation of it and don't necessarily represent one single "religion". This is true with any "group", as a few can give a false representation of the entire group. A few core "Christian" beliefs that I try to hold is to not to judge others and to treat all with love regardless of any "criticisms" I may unintentionally apply to them. I also strive to rid myself of selfishness and be very selfless when it comes to others. These things can be very difficult in practice and I feel as if any of my actions go against them that I have sinned, but that my God supports me for that realization and the desire to learn from my mistakes and continue to make myself better. Ok, enough ramblings for now. For the OP: do your homework, read much about the many religions, think deeply about what your philosophies tell you, experience as many religious "ceromonies" as you can and find the "religion" that best fits your thoughts and beliefs. Some may not feel that they "need" religion. But because you have already asked the question and have begun searching, it appears as if you may be one who will benefit and find satisfaction in exploring a religion you can identify as your own!
I shouldn't have generalized religious people like that, seperating them from spirituality, etc. In fact, keeping some core beliefs about Christianity and continuting to indentify yourself as a Christian is perfectly logical...I'm sure tons of people walk that road.