what is your religion and why did you choose to follow your path

I have chosen Buddhism as my path. i chose Buddhism because after thinking about it i found the basic teachings to be true. and well i like the teachings, it suites me for who i am

this is pretty much a thread where we get to know why others choose the religions they do and to get to know each other

[This message has been edited by Graemy (edited 07-10-2006).]

atheist spiritual (recently looking into atheist spiritual hinduism)

-it's true

Atheist. I've got philosophy, so I don't need religion; which is just philosophy gone wrong.

Atheism. I believe in science, not the invisible man in the sky.

Islam. Why? I was taught it by birth. I looked at other religions and stuff, and none had a positive history like Islam.

Your all going straight to the pit

quote:Originally posted by Lou Reed:

Your all going straight to the pit

I'm shaking in ma boots.

quote:Originally posted by Merlinman2005:

atheist spiritual (recently looking into atheist spiritual hinduism)

-it's true

...Atheist Spiritual Hinduism? What's that?

quote:Originally posted by Abrahim:

...Atheist Spiritual Hinduism? What's that?

Well, I believe in different planes, and the fact that we are all one (or at least connected), and the collective consciousness (and maybe gaia), just not any dieties.

quote:Originally posted by bonkers:

Atheism. I believe in science, not the invisible man in the sky.

None

[This message has been edited by Q777 (edited 07-10-2006).]

A textual literalism Buddhist, most resembling a combination of Zen and Theravadan. Though, in all honest, Buddhism is only a religion in the political sense of the word.

The actual definition of religion is something that deals with the supernatural, specifically, a deific figure.

Buddhism is not concerned with dogma and deities. Buddhism is perfection.

Prizism; for the robes.

quote:Originally posted by Iam:

A textual literalism Buddhist, most resembling a combination of Zen and Theravadan.



mine is a Cha'an and Mahayana mix with others thrown in like Tibeten and some Theravadan

quote:Originally posted by Graemy:

mine is a Cha'an

I've only recently heard anything about it. Care to outline the things that differentiate Cha'an from other sects? I'm quite interested.

Ch'an is Zen in chinese it is very similar to Zen, Zen came from Ch'an the shoalin monks practiced it. it focuses on not the material world but...a thing taught in Ch'an is that teaching a line of the Dharma is better than 1,000 good deads. the first patriarch of Ch'an is the Bohdi Dharma or Da Mo. Ch'an focuses on meditation and later stressed da mo's exercises there are six patriarchs of Ch'an Ch'an was influenced by taoism and took some of there concepts for example wisdom is stressed. It stresses the Dharma many Ch'an masters wrote poetry, most Ch'an masters died meditating because that is how they chose to die. Ch'an is a sect of Mahayana buddhism i practice from many sects of buddhism but i stress Ch'an Ch'an Focuses on meditation to reach enlightenment

[This message has been edited by Graemy (edited 07-10-2006).]

Secular Humanist. I prefer to call it a world view rather than a religion, though.

We are growing in numbers.

http://tinyurl.com/9kwqv

quote:Originally posted by Graemy:

Ch'an is Zen in chinese it is very similar to Zen, Zen came from Ch'an the shoalin monks practiced it. it focuses on not the material world but...a thing taught in Ch'an is that teaching a line of the Dharma is better than 1,000 good deads. the first patriarch of Ch'an is the Bohdi Dharma or Da Mo. Ch'an focuses on meditation and later stressed da mo's exercises there are six patriarchs of Ch'an Ch'an was influenced by taoism and took some of there concepts for example wisdom is stressed. It stresses the Dharma many Ch'an masters wrote poetry, most Ch'an masters died meditating because that is how they chose to die. Ch'an is a sect of Mahayana buddhism i practice from many sects of buddhism but i stress Ch'an Ch'an Focuses on meditation to reach enlightenment



Do they share the maitreya belief that Mahayanas do? Do you honor the statues of Bodhisattvas like the Mahayana? Do you strictly believe in the cycle of rebirth as an actual physical rebirth? Do you believe that Nirvana is an actual place you go to if you die having cessated from the plane of samsara?

Atheism

quote:Originally posted by Iam:

Do they share the maitreya belief that Mahayanas do? Do you honor the statues of Bodhisattvas like the Mahayana? Do you strictly believe in the cycle of rebirth as an actual physical rebirth? Do you believe that Nirvana is an actual place you go to if you die having cessated from the plane of samsara?

yes we do share the maitrey belief, honor the statues of Bodhisattvas. now the rebirth thing is where some other sects come in i beleive that it doesn't have to be strictly a physical rebirth. About Nirvana, i believe that it is an existence where you don't exist so it is like its own plane but more than that.

quote:Originally posted by Overman:

Atheist. I've got philosophy, so I don't need religion; which is just philosophy gone wrong.

Atheism isn't a religion stupid

And that goes for everybody who said Atheism as their religion.

[This message has been edited by sybil (edited 07-10-2006).]

quote:Originally posted by sybil:

Atheism isn't a religion stupid

And that goes for everybody who said Atheism as their religion.



I never stated it was, I was stating I didn't have a religion.

quote:Originally posted by Graemy:

yes we do share the maitrey belief, honor the statues of Bodhisattvas. now the rebirth thing is where some other sects come in i beleive that it doesn't have to be strictly a physical rebirth. About Nirvana, i believe that it is an existence where you don't exist so it is like its own plane but more than that.

Cool, man. I differ only in the rebirth thing.

quote:Originally posted by sybil:

Atheism isn't a religion stupid

And that goes for everybody who said Atheism as their religion.



he said it was a philosophy not a religion you don't have to post a religion just the philosophy that you follow as a religion or instead of a religion or the relgion you follow i mean buddhism is more of a philosophy then religion

quote:Originally posted by Merlinman2005:

Well, I believe in different planes, and the fact that we are all one (or at least connected), and the collective consciousness (and maybe gaia), just not any dieties.

So you sort of believe in what I believe in?

quote:Originally posted by Abrahim:

So you sort of believe in what I believe in?

I dunno, leaning towards no, but you did say sorta, so that could be taken a few ways.

You believe everything IS God, I think everything and the realization of the connection is what led to the birth of this "God" character. While somehow prophecy was bestowed upon Men, I don't think it was God's doing. They accessed something, giving them knowledge of things to come, definitely.

And tonight, I'm starting to put some serious thought into the Illuminati, or at least the whole New World Order thing (are those the same or not??)

(LaVey) Satanist. Because I've been one since I was born, I just never knew the way I lived had a name

quote:Originally posted by Merlinman2005:

I dunno, leaning towards no, but you did say sorta, so that could be taken a few ways.

You believe everything IS God, I think everything and the realization of the connection is what led to the birth of this "God" character. While somehow prophecy was bestowed upon Men, I don't think it was God's doing. They accessed something, giving them knowledge of things to come, definitely.

And tonight, I'm starting to put some serious thought into the Illuminati, or at least the whole New World Order thing (are those the same or not??)

I don't mean to say everything is God, but that God is the Ultimate Reality which Encompasses all Realities, I just call it God, it can be called anything, I find that it is the supreme factor in everything.

Christian. I was baptised as an infant and as promised by my Lord and savior, the trinity of Father, Son and Holy Ghost. I was given the Holy Spirit through His Sacrament. I believe that Jesus Christ, true God and man, is the way and the truth and the Light and that no one comes to the Father except through Him. He is the savior of the world. He died for us because we were dead in our sins and rose so we can live in eternal life with Him through his grace in the Holy Spirit. Now it is up to us to open our hearts or simply reject the gift that is given. This is not my religion ... it is my life.

quote:Originally posted by Graemy:

yes we do share the maitrey belief, honor the statues of Bodhisattvas. now the rebirth thing is where some other sects come in i beleive that it doesn't have to be strictly a physical rebirth. About Nirvana, i believe that it is an existence where you don't exist so it is like its own plane but more than that.

I don't agree with honoring statues.

quote:Originally posted by Truth is all:

Christian. I was baptised as an infant and as promised by my Lord and savior, the trinity of Father, Son and Holy Ghost. I was given the Holy Spirit through His Sacrament. I believe that Jesus Christ, true God and man, is the way and the truth and the Light and that no one comes to the Father except through Him. He is the savior of the world. He died for us because we were dead in our sins and rose so we can live in eternal life with Him through his grace in the Holy Spirit. Now it is up to us to open our hearts or simply reject the gift that is given. This is not my religion ... it is my life.

I believe in Direct Connection to God without intercessors, and Man Gods, that there is no middle man, that religion is between the individual and God personally.

quote:Originally posted by Abrahim:

I don't agree with honoring statues.

well we don't really honor the statue we honor the person it represents doesn't matter what the statue is, it could be a flower but represent the Buddha it is like honoring the words of god, the statue of a prophet, a picture of jesus, something that is supposed to represent one of them.

like when muslims pray they face Mecca it is similar to that.

[This message has been edited by Graemy (edited 07-11-2006).]

quote:Originally posted by Overman:

I never stated it was, I was stating I didn't have a religion.

ok, sorry, then I direct my answer to Danreil.

i don't really have a religion. i started noticing that i didn't believe in christianity at about 12 or so. my parents got wind of this and although they wont admit this, they tried forcing me back into it. lots of lengthy arguments. i kinda borrow ideals from various religions (i'd assume). as for the concept of a god, something out there has to be more powerful than humans, even if it doesn't give a shit about us.

quote:Originally posted by Graemy:

well we don't really honor the statue we honor the person it represents doesn't matter what the statue is, it could be a flower but represent the Buddha it is like honoring the words of god, the statue of a prophet, a picture of jesus, something that is supposed to represent one of them.

like when muslims pray they face Mecca it is similar to that.



Muslims do not say that Mecca is a representation of God, but rather that, since God is everywhere, the Mecca is used as a node to focus your energy on if you don't know where to turn, turn there. It also differenciates the muslims as the old Kiblah or direction of worship, used to be Jerusalem.

I don't think the Bhudda ever claimed to be God, but he was a man whom experienced wisdom and went out to teach it.

Bhuddism, I believe, generally accepts my definition of God as it is found prior in Hinduism and then mildly in Bhuddism too! Most people tend to think Bhuddism is atheist but its not really, well the original wasn't though the focus is more on following the path.

quote:Originally posted by Abrahim:

Muslims do not say that Mecca is a representation of God, but rather that, since God is everywhere, the Mecca is used as a node to focus your energy on if you don't know where to turn, turn there. It also differenciates the muslims as the old Kiblah or direction of worship, used to be Jerusalem.

I don't think the Bhudda ever claimed to be God, but he was a man whom experienced wisdom and went out to teach it.

Bhuddism, I believe, generally accepts my definition of God as it is found prior in Hinduism and then mildly in Bhuddism too! Most people tend to think Bhuddism is atheist but its not really, well the original wasn't though the focus is more on following the path.

Ummm, you could entertain your belief in God and be a Buddhist but Buddhism does not entail the belief in any supernatural being. You, as with most things you talk about, are wrong.

Abrahim,

Jesus is God and man. It is a direct connection to God, for it is a relationship with Jesus Christ. It is indeed a personal relationship.

quote:Originally posted by Iam:

Ummm, you could entertain your belief in God and be a Buddhist but Buddhism does not entail the belief in any supernatural being. You, as with most things you talk about, are wrong.

If you recall the story of Bhudda a diety does make an appearance, furthermore:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ishvara

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Avalokiteshvara

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/God_in_Buddhism

Those articles might shine a little light for ya!

quote:Originally posted by Truth is all:

Abrahim,

Jesus is God and man. It is a direct connection to God, for it is a relationship with Jesus Christ. It is indeed a personal relationship.

Jesus brought the message of God to mankind, you can have a personal connection and relation to God directly without middle men/gods.

quote:Originally posted by Abrahim:

If you recall the story of Bhudda a diety does make an appearance, furthermore:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ishvara

http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/A valokiteshvara (http: //en.wikip edia.org/w iki/Avalok iteshvara)

http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/G od_in_Buddhism (http: //en.wikip edia.org/w iki/God_in _Buddhism)

Those articles might shine a little light for ya!



The devas are unique to Mahayana Buddhism, which I have often said, is simply a Hindu bastardized form of Buddhism. Read your own links, the Buddha taught nothing of Gods.

Avalokiteshvara is a Boddhisatva, not a God. And again, the Boddhisatva honoring is unique to Mahayana Buddhism. Anytime you encounter anything that seems like a deific figure in Buddhism, it is a result of Hindu influence. Read the Buddha's words and YOU read his life story, I have done so in addition to extensive study on Buddhist beliefs.

There were a few times where the Buddha mentioned the Brahma, but only in telling people who were Hindus (remember that he taught each according to their capacity to understand the path) that they shouldn't concern themselves with such things that they can't know, and that they should focus on their own spiritual path instead.

There are a few things to note from this. One is that the only people he ever mentioned it with were Hindus. The ascetic men who originally followed him were never given such talks. Another is that the only time he DID mention it is to say that one shouldn't concern themselves with Brahma. Well, if Brahma is the ultimate reality in which the Hindus seek union then why would the Buddha tell them not to concern themselves with it? Why did the Buddha denounce Hinduism and other forms of theism? Why did the Buddha incorporate no such things in his teachings? Why are they not in the Dhammapada? Why is it that only the Mahayana branch believes such things?

Listen Abrahim, Buddhism does NOT entail the belief in any supernatural beings. Mahayana is just as much Hindu as it is Buddhism, if you want to ascribe beliefs to Buddhism, leave Mahayana out.

Felt I should pay you the respect of posting a link too... One more reliable on this matter than Wikipedia.

http://buddhanet.net/e-learning/qanda03.htm

[This message has been edited by Iam (edited 07-12-2006).]

Spiritual or Religous Satanist. How or Why? Well leading through a shit of a life(I suffer from Cystic Fybrosis, or CF, a lung diease for those that dont know. And yes its real.and a hell of alot of depression.) and living with a strongly religious christian family when praying to god never ever work I did some research. When i was about 10 i switched to atheism and developed my own theories. Then on a dare from some fucker at my school i looked up satanism. Upon reading it I found out my whole life style and belifes were the same thing. As soon as i became a dedicated and devoted satanist shit got alot better. My lungs were getting healthier, i made more money, just about everything like that. Heres a link if you ever get interested.Or you could just ask me. http://altreligion.about.com/library/faqs/bl_satanism.htm And p.s. if you people even think about telling me my religion is wrong I will exploit the lies and falsehods of your own and rip it limb from fuckin limb.

I dont push my belifes on you, dont push yours on mine or you will be left dead and broken.

[This message has been edited by Pimpin_Panda (edited 07-12-2006).]

quote:Originally posted by Iam:

There were a few times where the Buddha mentioned the Brahma, but only in telling people who were Hindus (remember that he taught each according to their capacity to understand the path) that they shouldn't concern themselves with such things that they can't know, and that they should focus on their own spiritual path instead.

There are a few things to note from this. One is that the only people he ever mentioned it with were Hindus. The ascetic men who originally followed him were never given such talks. Another is that the only time he DID mention it is to say that one shouldn't concern themselves with Brahma. Well, if Brahma is the ultimate reality in which the Hindus seek union then why would the Buddha tell them not to concern themselves with it? Why did the Buddha denounce Hinduism and other forms of theism? Why did the Buddha incorporate no such things in his teachings? Why are they not in the Dhammapada? Why is it that only the Mahayana branch believes such things?

Listen Abrahim, Buddhism does NOT entail the belief in any supernatural beings. Mahayana is just as much Hindu as it is Buddhism, if you want to ascribe beliefs to Buddhism, leave Mahayana out.

Felt I should pay you the respect of posting a link too... One more reliable on this matter than Wikipedia.

h ttp://budd hanet.net/ e-learning /qanda03.htm (http: //buddhane t.net/e-le arning/qan da03.htm)



Thanks for the links!

I subscribe to belief in the Brahman.

http://www.souledout.org/wesak/storybuddha.html

In this story "Brahma" comes to personally insist that Buddha teaches the path to Nirvana to people.

Brahma is the humanized and acessible version of The Brahman.

quote:Originally posted by Pimpin_Panda:

Spiritual or Religous Satanist. How or Why? Well leading through a shit of a life(I suffer from Cystic Fybrosis, or CF, a lung diease for those that dont know. And yes its real.and a hell of alot of depression.) and living with a strongly religious christian family when praying to god never ever work I did some research. When i was about 10 i switched to atheism and developed my own theories. Then on a dare from some fucker at my school i looked up satanism. Upon reading it I found out my whole life style and belifes were the same thing. As soon as i became a dedicated and devoted satanist shit got alot better. My lungs were getting healthier, i made more money, just about everything like that. Heres a link if you ever get interested.Or you could just ask me. http:// altreligio n.about.com/library/faqs/bl_satanism.htm (http: //altrelig ion.about. com/librar y/faqs/bl_ satanism.h tm) And p.s. if you people even think about telling me my religion is wrong I will exploit the lies and falsehods of your own and rip it limb from fuckin limb.

I dont push my belifes on you, dont push yours on mine or you will be left dead and broken.



Code of Conduct: Satanists of the COS follow the Eleven Satanic Rules of the Earth:

1 Do not give opinions or advice unless you are asked.

2 Do not tell your troubles to others unless you are sure that they want to hear them.

3 When in another's lair, show him respect or else do not go there.

4 If a guest in your lair annoys you, treat him cruelly and without mercy.

5 Do not make sexual advances unless you are given the mating signal.

6 Do not take that which does not belong to you unless it is a burden to the person and he cries out to be relieved.

7 Acknowledge the power of magic if you have used it successfully to obtain your desires. If you deny the power of magic after having called upon it with success, you will lose all you have obtained.

8 Do not complain about anything to which you need not subject yourself.

9 Do not harm little children.

10 Do not kill non-human animals unless attacked or for your food.

11 When walking in open territory, bother no one. If someone bothers you, ask him to stop. If he does not stop, destroy him.

Basic teachings and Beliefs of Satanism:

While many Satanists argue the actual physical existence of Satan, the Satanic view of Satan/Lucifer/Set is a somewhat Gnostic one, seeing the divinity as a liberator of mankind, a principal of individuality, or as the principal of change. Satanism of the sort where believers consciously worship Satan as an evil entity or an enemy of the Christian God appears to be confined to rumor, disturbed teenagers, and bad Heavy metal music. True to some accusations, Satanists do tend to embrace a philosophy of 'relative morality,' which generally culminates in a rejection of 'antiquated' sexual mores, "embracing man's carnal nature," as LaVey phrases it.

The beliefs of the Church of Satan can be summed up by their Nine Satanic Statements:

Satan represents indulgence, instead of abstinence!

Satan represents vital existence, instead of spiritual pipe dreams!

Satan represents undefiled wisdom, instead of hypocritical self-deceit!

Satan represents kindness to those who deserve it, instead of love wasted on ingrates!

Satan represents vengeance, instead of turning the other cheek!

Satan represents responsibility to the responsible, instead of concern for psychic vampires!

Satan represents man as just another animal, sometimes better, more often worse than those that walk on all fours, who, because of his "divine spiritual and intellectual development, has become the most vicious animal of all!

Satan represents all of the so-called sins, as they all lead to physical, mental, or emotional gratification.

Satan is the best friend the church has ever had, as he has kept it in business all these years!



Satan and Satanism

There are several types of Satanic belief systems. The most common is Philosophical Satanism, or Luciferian philosophy, wherein Satan is not believed to actually exist, but is seen as a sort of mascot for personal liberty. Most modern Satanic groups, especially the COS, fall into this category. (It should be noted that some prefer to place this and similar groups under the label of "religious" Satanism due to their ritual practices) Satan is not viewed as a living entity, but as an ideal. Much of the thought behind this particular belief system is in opposition to Judeo-Christian ideals that are seen as weak or ineffectual. In philosophical Satanism, the emphasis is on individuation, personal growth and human potential. There are no pacts, sacrifices, or criminal behaviors accepted or encouraged, altohugh some do intentionally cultivate a 'spooky' or intimidating image. This type of belief is likely to be embraced by people who feel powerless in their every day lives, but this is not neccessarily true of the majority. In Satanic ritual magick, Satan embodies the principal of Set- the destruction of the ego neccessary for spiritual rebirth.

Traditional, or religious Satanism, is less common. Religious Satanism does involve a belief in Satan as a deity, although not neccessarily an evil or oppositional one. In fact, the majority view Satan as a Promethian or Gnostic deity- a liberator, or one who encourages mankind to rebel against its state of imprisonment. In many of these traditions, the Biblical Yahweh is seen as an evil tyrant, an oppressive and cruel deity- which correlates with similar Gnostic beliefs. Many more traditions do not specifically acknowledge the Judeo-Christian pantheon, but venerate the Egyptian Set. Religious Satanists are no more or less moral or likely to commit crimes than other religious groups, and religious Satanists do not make sacrifices or practice "black magic."

A much smaller percentage of the "Satanic" population are what is most often referred to as 'Dabbling.' Satanic dabblers are usually among the disaffected members of the population (prisoners, troubled teens, the mentally ill, etc.), people who feel extremely powerless or have a need or desire to control or outrage others. Many of these derive their 'practices' from popular beliefs about Satanism. They often commit minor crimes and very rarely larger ones. They may attempt to perform spells or curses against others, or even attempt what they view as 'traditional' Satanic activities- sacrifices, pacts, etc. Most have no group affiliations, or even contact with other believers; their beliefs/practices usually gleaned from books or even rumours. Dabblers are often obvious by their appearance and generally do not 'blend in' with society at large. This is usually not an issue of genuinereligious Satanism, but a symptom of antisocial tendencies, even a cry for help. Most dabblers outgrow it, although some may eventually embrace more mature, religious aspects.

I believe in Analwhorism. Anyone interested, just let me know. It's a very intresting religion I can tell you.

Abrahim, stop copy and pasting useless nonsense that anyone interested can find on their own and I'm sure people will like you better. 99% of people are going to get pissed off and skip everything you pasted there. If you want to offer some insight into Satanism, post a link and give a synopsis.

quote:Originally posted by Abrahim:

If you recall the story of Bhudda a diety does make an appearance, furthermore:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ishvara

http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/A valokiteshvara (http: //en.wikip edia.org/w iki/Avalok iteshvara)

http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/G od_in_Buddhism (http: //en.wikip edia.org/w iki/God_in _Buddhism)

Those articles might shine a little light for ya!



it is unique to only one small sect of buddhism that exists in india

we honor bodhisattvas because they could have become a buddha but didn't to help the rest of the world to become buddhas that is why we honor them my personal belief in buddhism is to honor them not worship, pray, to them or any diety

i never said mecca represents god i said that honoring a statue is like honoring mecca by praying towards it

[This message has been edited by Graemy (edited 07-12-2006).]

quote:Originally posted by Abrahim:

Muslims do not say that Mecca is a representation of God, but rather that, since God is everywhere, the Mecca is used as a node to focus your energy on if you don't know where to turn, turn there. It also differenciates the muslims as the old Kiblah or direction of worship, used to be Jerusalem.

I don't think the Bhudda ever claimed to be God, but he was a man whom experienced wisdom and went out to teach it.

Bhuddism, I believe, generally accepts my definition of God as it is found prior in Hinduism and then mildly in Bhuddism too! Most people tend to think Bhuddism is atheist but its not really, well the original wasn't though the focus is more on following the path.

technically buddhism was founded after hinduism. the scrptures say that buddhism was around in the ancient indian civilization but then the aryans invaded and added their gods, castes system, and many things to create hinduism and buddhism was lost. then Siddhartha Gautama rediscovered it gods only came in after the aryan invasion of india. now there is very little buddhists in india and the ones that are there are mahayana mixed with hinduism

quote:Originally posted by Loc Dogg:

Islam. Why? I was taught it by birth. I looked at other religions and stuff, and none had a positive history like Islam.



same

quote:Originally posted by Abrahim:

I subscribe to belief in the Brahman.

Once more you seem to contradict yourself, how can you believe in Allah as the 'one' god, then say you also believe in Brahman whom the Hindus characterise as a trinity or a composite of 'allgods'?

quote:Originally posted by Abrahim:

Brahma is the humanized and acessible version of The Brahman.

My understanding is that Buddha did not refer to Brahma as a literal God, it would contradict the context of his other teachings to see it that way. No Buddha spoke of Brahma as the creative force, and that was as far as he went. He never taught or advised belief in Brahman.

The creative principle of the universe is called Brahma in Sanskrit. Brahma, who is depicted as emerging from the navel lotus of Narayana, is a metaphor for all of creation: its laws, its inherent intelligence, and its consciously manifested potencies which operate as sages, saints, rishis, devas, celestials, and divine beings of all kinds of nature, temperament and description. Narayana is the Sanskrit name given in the Upanishads to that which is the sum and substance of all the manifested and unmanifested realms. Narayana is that which is neither created nor destroyed but transcends the creation, life and destruction of the universe. Brahma creates, operates in the form of this universe for trillions of years, then dissolves back into Narayana. Narayana, however, is neither created nor destroyed. Later, another Brahma appears to begin the process again.http://www.sanskritmantra.com/brahma.htm

"Brahma, ..., is a metaphor for all of creation: its laws, its inherent intelligence, and its consciously manifested potencies which operate as sages, saints, rishis, devas, celestials, and divine beings of all kinds of nature, temperament and description."

Namaste http://www.totse.com/bbs/smile.gif (http://www.totse.com/bbs/smile.gif)

Again Abrahim, Jesus is the mediator, but He is true God. The one and only God. Thus your personal relationship to him is a personal relationship to the one and only God.

My apologies for the bluntness of the reply, as christians are not pissing me of right now but....



A personal relationship with someone who doesn't talk back is not very personal.

It would be close to talking to a toy/idol.

quote:Originally posted by redzed:

My understanding is that Buddha did not refer to Brahma as a literal God, it would contradict the context of his other teachings to see it that way. No Buddha spoke of Brahma as the creative force, and that was as far as he went. He never taught or advised belief in Brahman.

The creative principle of the universe is called Brahma in Sanskrit. Brahma, who is depicted as emerging from the navel lotus of Narayana, is a metaphor for all of creation: its laws, its inherent intelligence, and its consciously manifested potencies which operate as sages, saints, rishis, devas, celestials, and divine beings of all kinds of nature, temperament and description. Narayana is the Sanskrit name given in the Upanishads to that which is the sum and substance of all the manifested and unmanifested realms. Narayana is that which is neither created nor destroyed but transcends the creation, life and destruction of the universe. Brahma creates, operates in the form of this universe for trillions of years, then dissolves back into Narayana. Narayana, however, is neither created nor destroyed. Later, another Brahma appears to begin the process again.http://www.sanskritmantra.com/brahma.htm

"Brahma, ..., is a metaphor for all of creation: its laws, its inherent intelligence, and its consciously manifested potencies which operate as sages, saints, rishis, devas, celestials, and divine beings of all kinds of nature, temperament and description."

Namaste http://www.totse.com/bbs/smile.gif (http://www.totse.com/bbs/smile.gif)



It seems you never actually read my explanation of why I believe in The Brahman in my original posts about God which you can find at "What is God"

brahma (nominative singular), brahman (stem) (neuter[1] gender) means the concept of the Supreme transcendent and immanent Reality or the One Godhead or Cosmic Spirit in Hinduism; this is discussed below. Also note that the word Brahman in this sense is exceptionally treated as masculine (see the Merrill-Webster Sanskrit Dictionary). It is called "the Brahman" in English.

quote:Originally posted by Niceguy:

My apologies for the bluntness of the reply, as christians are not pissing me of right now but....



A personal relationship with someone who doesn't talk back is not very personal.

It would be close to talking to a toy/idol.

What if the toy says "I need go poopy" and "I wuv u"

God does answer back to those who believe and are those who worship God (The One). We could say its the belief that makes it work.

Lots of people pray for things, without devotion, sincerity, or anything, things like "God, make this bottle move" and the bottle doesn't move, and then they laf and laf and laf, and throw the bottle in the garbage...

quote:Originally posted by Abrahim:

Code of Conduct: Satanists of the COS follow the Eleven Satanic Rules of the Earth:

1 Do not give opinions or advice unless you are asked.

2 Do not tell your troubles to others unless you are sure that they want to hear them.

3 When in another's lair, show him respect or else do not go there.

4 If a guest in your lair annoys you, treat him cruelly and without mercy.

5 Do not make sexual advances unless you are given the mating signal.

6 Do not take that which does not belong to you unless it is a burden to the person and he cries out to be relieved.

7 Acknowledge the power of magic if you have used it successfully to obtain your desires. If you deny the power of magic after having called upon it with success, you will lose all you have obtained.

8 Do not complain about anything to which you need not subject yourself.

9 Do not harm little children.

10 Do not kill non-human animals unless attacked or for your food.

11 When walking in open territory, bother no one. If someone bothers you, ask him to stop. If he does not stop, destroy him.

Basic teachings and Beliefs of Satanism:

While many Satanists argue the actual physical existence of Satan, the Satanic view of Satan/Lucifer/Set is a somewhat Gnostic one, seeing the divinity as a liberator of mankind, a principal of individuality, or as the principal of change. Satanism of the sort where believers consciously worship Satan as an evil entity or an enemy of the Christian God appears to be confined to rumor, disturbed teenagers, and bad Heavy metal music. True to some accusations, Satanists do tend to embrace a philosophy of 'relative morality,' which generally culminates in a rejection of 'antiquated' sexual mores, "embracing man's carnal nature," as LaVey phrases it.

The beliefs of the Church of Satan can be summed up by their Nine Satanic Statements:

Satan represents indulgence, instead of abstinence!

Satan represents vital existence, instead of spiritual pipe dreams!

Satan represents undefiled wisdom, instead of hypocritical self-deceit!

Satan represents kindness to those who deserve it, instead of love wasted on ingrates!

Satan represents vengeance, instead of turning the other cheek!

Satan represents responsibility to the responsible, instead of concern for psychic vampires!

Satan represents man as just another animal, sometimes better, more often worse than those that walk on all fours, who, because of his "divine spiritual and intellectual development, has become the most vicious animal of all!

Satan represents all of the so-called sins, as they all lead to physical, mental, or emotional gratification.

Satan is the best friend the church has ever had, as he has kept it in business all these years!



Satan and Satanism

There are several types of Satanic belief systems. The most common is Philosophical Satanism, or Luciferian philosophy, wherein Satan is not believed to actually exist, but is seen as a sort of mascot for personal liberty. Most modern Satanic groups, especially the COS, fall into this category. (It should be noted that some prefer to place this and similar groups under the label of "religious" Satanism due to their ritual practices) Satan is not viewed as a living entity, but as an ideal. Much of the thought behind this particular belief system is in opposition to Judeo-Christian ideals that are seen as weak or ineffectual. In philosophical Satanism, the emphasis is on individuation, personal growth and human potential. There are no pacts, sacrifices, or criminal behaviors accepted or encouraged, altohugh some do intentionally cultivate a 'spooky' or intimidating image. This type of belief is likely to be embraced by people who feel powerless in their every day lives, but this is not neccessarily true of the majority. In Satanic ritual magick, Satan embodies the principal of Set- the destruction of the ego neccessary for spiritual rebirth.

Traditional, or religious Satanism, is less common. Religious Satanism does involve a belief in Satan as a deity, although not neccessarily an evil or oppositional one. In fact, the majority view Satan as a Promethian or Gnostic deity- a liberator, or one who encourages mankind to rebel against its state of imprisonment. In many of these traditions, the Biblical Yahweh is seen as an evil tyrant, an oppressive and cruel deity- which correlates with similar Gnostic beliefs. Many more traditions do not specifically acknowledge the Judeo-Christian pantheon, but venerate the Egyptian Set. Religious Satanists are no more or less moral or likely to commit crimes than other religious groups, and religious Satanists do not make sacrifices or practice "black magic."

A much smaller percentage of the "Satanic" population are what is most often referred to as 'Dabbling.' Satanic dabblers are usually among the disaffected members of the population (prisoners, troubled teens, the mentally ill, etc.), people who feel extremely powerless or have a need or desire to control or outrage others. Many of these derive their 'practices' from popular beliefs about Satanism. They often commit minor crimes and very rarely larger ones. They may attempt to perform spells or curses against others, or even attempt what they view as 'traditional' Satanic activities- sacrifices, pacts, etc. Most have no group affiliations, or even contact with other believers; their beliefs/practices usually gleaned from books or even rumours. Dabblers are often obvious by their appearance and generally do not 'blend in' with society at large. This is usually not an issue of genuinereligious Satanism, but a symptom of antisocial tendencies, even a cry for help. Most dabblers outgrow it, although some may eventually embrace more mature, religious aspects.



Abrahim i dont get the point of your post unless you were explaing everything to these people i dont get why you posted it.

jesus christ religions are confusing, im a buddhist, but a ley buddhist, and i dont care about anything, i just like the morals, i may well convert to prizism, but although that sounds contradictory to 'jesus christ religions are confusing' i meant in the whole way of the supernatural, why believe in somehting that cannot be proved, miracles cant even be proved, like some person who was thought by everyone to be a goner, and yet they live, ever heard of will power, or medicine, its a little thing that saves people from dying, that is its job, a miracle worker if you will, it was not fucken divine intervention or some bullshit, if god loved us so much then why does he make the world suffer?

i dont think that there is anything wrong with any religion, its good to believe in something, so you can look up to it or feel that you are not alone, supernatural stuff just isnt for me, buddha's teachings etc is what is for me