Devotion has been practised by western mystics amongst others, and it is said to be one of the paths to the Godhead in the Hindu civilization.

There is a lot of discussion here about religions and God but it usually stays on the intellectual level. Do some have personal experience with devotion, or devotional practices of any kind ?

Have you ever been gripped - you know, felt strong or deep feelings - when listening to religious music of any kind ? Ever had a deep sense of peace and/or communion with the divine ?



[This message has been edited by Uncus (edited 01-13-2005).]

Feelings are not real, in that they do not necessarily correlate with reality. Feelings are after all just chemicals in your brain. Saying you feel that god exist is just like saying that you had a shroom trip and felt god. Just because you feel something does not make it true. Have you ever heard people (usually ex drug abusers) say that you can get higher without drugs than with them. You can make yourself feel whatever you want, you just have to want it enough.

I am inspired, and emotionally moved, when I hear "Hymn to Her" by Chrissie Hynde. I have probably been on my path since before she was born, but I was delighted to find that not all hymns had to do with Christianity.

On the other hand, gospel music, especially cowboy gospel, moves and inspires me in spite of not being specific to me. There is something about spiritual music in general that calls to me. Many bring joy without regard to the specific tradition they originate in.

I have also found myself moved by Prince's religious songs, although they seem strangely sensual for a Jehovah's Witness.

quote:Originally posted by Uncus:

Have you ever been gripped - you know, felt strong or deep feelings - when listening to religious music of any kind ? Ever had a deep sense of peace and/or communion with the divine ?

Music...absolutely...but not confined to 'religious music' alone.

The divine flows freely...IMO