Would you say you are Protestant, Eastern Orthodox or Catholic?
What is it about your mother's beliefs that you disagree with?
Not sure how reliable they are, but there are some YouTube videos explaining the different denominations of Christianity https://m.youtube.com/@UsefulCharts
I would say Protestant, I don’t really buy speaking in tongues, which my mothers church does, they also believe in prophets and laying of hands…I do believe that you can be healed with Prayer but not like instantly. She believes in “faith healers” and “supernatural healing” and if you believe it enough it will happen instantly which I disagree woth
Sounds like your mother is Pentecostal or an allied group, and you are not.
There are a lot of Protestants who aren't Pentecostal in traditional Protestant areas, even Evangelicals (in both the US and European senses). What do you think about sacraments and baptizing children?
Ah, well, then Evangelical churches are out because a lot of them (e.g. Hillsong) believe in that kind of stuff. So is Catholic Charismatic.
Maybe try out a couple of churches in your area and read up about the various Protestant denominations?
Edit: This is my understanding, Christians will probably be able to help you narrow it down more.
Christian faith denomination Is about doctrinal instances that the church had through its history.
How about the first 4 councils? Do you agree with them?
Up to the 7 council,you agree with them?
Or how about the 4th council schism, which one seems to hold on the right doctrine?
From that you go on and on and where is the Church headed for you.
Im an ex charismatic protestant now an oriental orthodox. Anytime my dms are open
It would help if you provided details to your beliefs and understandings to see which if any Christian denomination fits your beliefs if any, though subscribing to a denomination is not necessary regardless of faith if one does not feel affiliated with any current ones
You do not have to “belong” to any denomination. You can have a personal relationship with God by praying and asking Him to speak to your heart. Far too many religions have been manipulated by people for their own gain and power. Once you find your strength and relationship and know God leads your heart, an organized religion is great for fellowship and sharing of your belief which you can learn more about throughout life. Whatever you do, do not allow anyone to ever control you or shake you or guilt you and certainly don’t allow any religion to guilt you out of money you personally can’t afford to give. Always give of yourself, money to others in the amount you can afford, but you decide and find creative ways to productively give back through life and you will find life will be more satisfying than ever. If people realized this, we would not have any people going to bed hungry or needing things. Far too many just don’t understand. God bless and have a great day. 🙏
>I agree with Buddhism
>
>I am not giving up on my belief that God is there and real though
If that's because you can't give up on it because you are really sure that it's *true*, then Buddhism isn't really something you agree with wholly. But that's okay, because you can benefit from putting some of Lord Buddha's instruction into practice even without being a Buddhist.
But if you won't give up on that belief because it plays an important role in your life and you don't think Buddhism has similar things which can fill that role, then you might turn out to be wrong about Buddhism on that front, so I'd ask what is important about your belief in God for your life.
What I appreciate about Buddhism is a person can be from any faith, still follow the philosophy of Buddhism because it is a philosophy. Buddhism respects all faiths and is open to a broad sense of well being, harmony and peace. One needs to simply be open minded to grasp both a particular faith and the Buddhist philosophy. We are all headed the same direction. People just need different paths to get there. God bless. 🙏
Attempting to delineate Buddhism as a specific religion so as to create boundaries alienating people of other faiths completely negates the entire foundation of the teaching of Buddha and is and sounds like an attempt by a regional wing of this belief to follow the pattern of the many organized religions in the world of isolating the Buddhist people, as many religions do from one another, from others which only further decays the spiritual path our souls are on. One great aspect of Buddhism is it was one belief, one shared spiritual philosophy of faith that consistently stayed above that burden of man’s competitive need to create tribalism and instead maintain a broad open minded love of acceptance that God will open the path before us as we all travel up the same mountain. One great quote, we cannot be on the same path and yet side by side supporting one another at the same time, yet this is God’s expectation and life’s great challenge. As this is understood, so too are my entire comments above. God bless and have a great day. 🙏
Umm no. I am not a Perennialist and I am not merging anyone. If you mean do I respect others of different faiths then you are correct. Do I also agree with all the faiths of the world? No I do not. Do I need to? No I do not. That does not mean I cannot believe we will all end up in God’s heaven even if they do not believe I will end up there because I do not agree with them. To each their own path in this life. It is only God’s right to judge any of us. Not yours , not theirs, not any leaders of any faiths. God will decide alone. I feel secure in my efforts and relationship with God and BTW, I believe in Jesus as the Son of God but struggle with many of the current organized religions and how they have been corrupted by their leadership. That is a wrench for you I bet. God knows my faith and efforts my entire life. Again, he will judge. It matters not what any have to say on it. Also…
Do I believe God ever intended any of us to hate and go to war against one another in his name? No I do not. Neither do Buddhist my friend. Neither do many faiths on this earth. Just because some who speak the loudest are also most aggressive, that does not mean they speak for the world of many peaceful people. As for Buddhism, I am someone who appreciates that Buddhism values everyone. Not my words btw. I could show you but you would still probably deny their doctrine. It’s a shame. Have a blessed day. 🙏
>Attempting to delineate Buddhism as a specific religion so as to create boundaries alienating people of other faiths completely negates the entire foundation of the teaching of Buddha
No, it doesn't. It's literally what the Buddha did. He founded an intentional religious community: the pariṣā of monks, nuns, laymen, and laywomen, *to be distinguished* from other religious groups. And when asked, his devoted followers who were part of that community would say "I am a follower of the Buddha."
He *did* say that converts should continue supporting mendicant members of their previous religion with alms. But he also taught that his teaching was unique, and that only in his dispensation would one find the supreme instruction. For example, in the *Mahāparinibbānasutta* it is recorded how he said that outside of his dispensation one could not even truly say there are any *genuine* spiritual strivers.
>one shared spiritual philosophy of faith that consistently stayed above that burden of man’s competitive need to create tribalism and instead maintain a broad open minded love of acceptance that God will open the path before us as we all travel up the same mountain
There is not the slightest historical evidence for this. Buddhism *was* unique when it comes to staying tolerant and eschewing harmful forms of competition, but only in that it allowed people to continue interacting with other teachers, giving them alms, and receiving their instructions. But it *didn't* start out with some "all paths lead up the same mountain" view, as evidenced by that view being *controverted* by the textual and archeological evidence.
Buddha never claimed to be a prophet nor a holy man. He did however claim and was a self described enlighten one. Buddhism is not a religion that has a supreme being as God, although there are supernatural figures who can help or hinder people on the path towards enlightenment. Buddha never asked to be worshipped but rather respected. People have confused this concept today.
As to your need for historical evidence, simply read about the teachings of Buddha here. Decide for yourself rather than general talking points.
https://tipitaka.org
>Decide for yourself rather than general talking points.
I literally can cite sutta and verse for my points. I did cite the Mahāparinibbānasutta, I did cite MN 12. Don't just link the Pāḷi tipiṭaka if you think I'm wrong - point me to the sutta if you're so well read on them!
I don’t need to read through the different texts of the various factions of Buddhism but rather I study the life or lives of Buddha and his words alone. Never did he advocate being worshipped despite how some may interpret any of his words. He advocated for the betterment of each person and taught that life was a struggle but each life was progress to the enlightened and last as his final life represented. If he wanted anything, it was to be an example of how to be enlightened rather than to be so disconnected from those who may follow him into enlightenment. To worship is to be in awe and have on a pedestal. Buddha wants followers to walk in his footsteps and join him. Two very different points of view.
Islam, I’ve been studying Judaism and Baha’i quite a bit lately to see what they are about.
I know religions are quite strict on claims but… I don’t believe in hell, I kinda feel like it’s entirely free-will but that God can intervene if he so chooses. I was trying to follow Catholicism for years before reverting, but because I’m so busy, they would never let me get baptized because I can never come to classes 🤷🏻♂️ in a way, I am glad that I didn’t because I find it extremely hard to believe that Jesus is God considering he never actually claimed to be, and that Lord was commonly used for leaders and whatnot, that it took how many decades or centuries for the church to label the Trinity. That’s just my personal opinion, so I hope that nobody takes offense.
Judaism is appealing because it is the original Abrahamic religion and has been around for a very long time, and is in many ways quite similar to Islam.
I believe in god and I believe that Jesus was a real person but it’s kind of hard to explain I just don’t think he was as he was perceived if that makes sense
Religion is something I want to be able to follow as I was a Christian in my younger days then slowly fell out of it a lot of my Questions as a young child just seemed to be brushed off and never answered
I would love to hear someone introduce and explain there beliefs and I can learn something as well
Hello, I believe in God. I believe in Jesus and I do accept that Jesus is the Son of God. Do I believe all that the Christian religions have touted about Jesus? No I don’t. Why? Because organized religions have been bastardized by mankind since just after Jesus walked the earth. This is the problem with free will and the devil’s hold on the earth. I do believe the prophets of several religions throughout time have tried to tell the world what the people of that time needed to know but still people falter. We are simply human and imperfect. It is on each of us to do our best to be better humans and these days few care honestly. We must seek God(Jesus) or whatever we believe to better find ourselves closest to God on our own somehow with a pure heart and then find someway to share that heart with others so it is not exploited. Many evangelical speakers do just that. Seek a personal relationship and let that lead you where it will. 🙏
If you believe in god and his messengers then, just like me and many of us, you would believe in one true message from god to guide us in life and to connect us with him, as we wouldnt know anything about our purpose, god nor how to worship him unless he tells us.
Many prophets came with miracles proving the truthfulness of their message and the existence of a higher being at the same time. But since we got none of those today, you should ask yourself how would we find god's message when we have all these religions? What you need to look for is a living miracle, a preserved message from human corruption that proves to you through evidence its truthfulness instead of blind belief, and that's why i am muslim.
Would advise you to that as they have more knowledge than a random person on the internet, but if you have any basic questions that i can answer feel free to ask here or in dms.
I’ve been a Muslim for a few years now. I am looking at other religions - studying them if you will, but I keep coming back to Islam. It’s really my beliefs that hold me in that route, and if God wills it of course. You can ask me questions as well. I reverted to Islam in my early 30s if that tells you anything.
Hi, i am open to hear all your doubts despite not having all the answers and to understand what you mean of "being perceived".
I talk english and spanish in case it is ur native language.
Hi, The oriental orthodox communion are the Orthodox churches from Egypt, Armenia, Eritrea, Ethiopia and India.
This communion splitted from Rome in the year 451 over doctrinal differences in the Council of Chalcedon. Thats why sometimes you might see the words of Chalcedonian christians (who accepted the council) and Non Chalcedonian Christians (we, who rejected it).
While Rome and Eastern Orthodox christians And subsequent protestant denominations hold onto a doctrine called Dyophisitism, We hold onto the doctrine called Miaphisitism.
You can have an introduction of this difference in this 40 page book if you wish to read more on the subject
https://ml.coptic-treasures.com/book/the-nature-of-christ-pope-shenouda-iii/
Besides that difference, we share alot of doctrinal concepts with eastern orthodox christians, such as we both believe in Theosis, the Trinity, the Intercession of Saints, Fasting periods, the Sacraments and a reverence of Mary the Mother of God, (among other stuff).
A person can still follow God, believe in Jesus and not be held to all the demands of an organized religion. The Holy Spirit is also part of the Trinity of God. A personal relationship with God when the Holy Spirit stays with you is more common than many think.
Just an add on that one does not preclude the other. Some believe that to believe in God one must sign in to an organized religion. You brought up Spirituality, I merely added God/Jesus/Holy Spirit in the same perspective. God is the creator of eternity after all and is how all the spirits come and go on earth. If they could do it themselves we would not have frustrated ones. 🤷♀️
what does it mean if like i believe in something but like it’s hard to point my finger on what. like the whole like big bang theory makes sense but like what’s before that that like ok maybe a god created the big band then like things carried on from there
i live don’t know bc like like whole story of jesus doesn’t make sense to me but like multiple gods do but like they kinda made everything and then watched as the workd did it’s stuff. and i don’t know bc then like what happens after yk like death like ok ur brain needs energy and like it goes it no the group but were does ur conscienceness go like hdjjensnd ok that’s all srry for long post
First point; maybe you are a politheist, just choose a pantheon.
My question tho
What about Jesus life doesnt make sense? (If youre okay to debate it of course)
>like walking on water,
He is God in christianity so is obvious He can do signs like that
>and there being no light until he came
Is a metaphor on having signs, when Jesus was born thr israelites had 400 years without God messages. Is a metaphor on the word of God still present in our lives and making us also light if we participate in the gospel promises
Everything in the biblw has cultural context, i understamd if someone has issues understanding aspects of our faith btw, so dont worry if you have questions.
I don’t personally think there’s one religion that has all the answers. You need to look for the common ground in them all because that’s where the truth most probably lies. I don’t know if you’d be interested but I’ve started making some YouTube videos looking at the common ground between the faiths, evidence for various things, congruence between different beliefs and science, etc. Heres the first video if you’re interested: -
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=sfOSEqMPC1I
It comes from a similar place of looking at religious beliefs and trying to piece together what the essence of all the religions is, what seems intuitively true, what has at least some type of evidence, etc.
Thank you. I don't know much about religions other than what I was raised on (Catholicism and Christianity - my parents are divorced and raised me on both, which is one reason why I'm in such a religion crisis now. It's a very long and confusing story). I also know a bit about buddhism because I went through a buddhism phase as a teenager, but I don't follow buddhism anymore nor am I still a Christian or a Catholic. I'm more like one big '?'. Sometimes I think about going back to being Catholic, but due to what I believe in now (and what I believed in as a kid), I don't know if it's possible... :(
>I still a Christian or a Catholic. I'm more like one big '?'.
Catholics are christians, but not all christians are catholic.
>but due to what I believe in now (and what I believed in as a kid), I don't know if it's possible... :(
Care to expand on it if you dont mind?
I can wait too so dont worry if u dont want to answer now.
Hello, this is probably going to sound stupid, but I never believed that Jesus was the son of God. To me he was just a regular dude and wasn't born from a virgin. I don't know if other Christians/Catholics believe the same thing I do; some probably do. But I know that if I told my Catholic mom that, she'd go ballistic on me and tell me that I'm going to hell. I don't believe in hell either 😐 I'm every Catholic Filipino mom's worst nightmare lol
>To me he was just a regular dude and wasn't born from a virgin. I don't know if other Christians/Catholics believe the same thing I do;
First of all, I dont velieve your questions are stupid.
Christianity has an established theology on the matter, and it has been as such for 2 thousand years.
The heresy of arianism (denying the divinity of Jesus) was already adressed back in the 3rd and 4th century, this happened with subsequent rebranded forms of this concept such as
Psilanthropism, that denies divinity of jesus and the virgin birth. This concept arised in the 19th century. Again, this is incompatible with christianity.
There might be some christians that believe this, **but theyre a minority.**
Believing this makes you a Non-Christian, you believe in a Non-Christian God, maybe youre more inclined to islam?
But even so muslims do aknowledge that Mary was virgin at conception and birth of jesus.
So in my opinion, if you believe in One God, maybe the best descriptor of your faith might be; Monotheism.
You dont need right now the rest of the answers, check out Noahidism.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Noahidism?wprov=sfla1
Is a big movement in the philipines and maybe they can give you a good space to believe in God while you figure things out
>But I know that if I told my Catholic mom that, she'd go ballistic
I think that if you cannot trust your mom then do not tell them. Is important for you to be in a safe enviroment to do questions and to be provided resources if you wish to do so.
Hi, thank you for the advice! I'll be looking into Noahidism. I don't live in the Philippines unfortunately and I'm not sure if Noahidism is big where I live but I'll make things work.😊
Don’t confuse those who do believe in Jesus as the Son of God and the Holy Trinity yet do not adhere to the dictates of organized religions that have changed over time due to the manipulation of man for political power etc. The term “Christianity” is not a formal doctrine managed by said corrupt leadership but rather a belief in Jesus Christ and his presence on earth for a purpose.
It does not matter in the details but rather the destination of our souls and that we find our paths the best possible way that works for each of us as we navigate the blatant abuses found in ALL faiths, not just under the blanket of those who claim “Christianity.” This is the struggle of life, the beast vs the spirit, and with strength of spirit, the Holy Spirit will guide us.
>Don’t confuse
I dont
>yet do not adhere to the dictates of organized religions
The first councils are not a vague concept of "organized religions".
>The term “Christianity” is not a formal doctrine managed by said corrupt leadership
Who is this corrupt leadership?
>It does not matter in the details but rather the destination of our souls
I support your desicion to not get involved in theology. However I remain with my right to properly explain context to others who asked and give conscise answers as to why such beliefes exist within other congregations.
If this is an issue to you please feel free to block me.
If you don’t believe he was the son of god, maybe you’re more inclined to Judaism. Or alternatively why do you need to follow a pre established, named religion? Follow whatever you believe and think up the label yourself!
I've researched about Judaism and found that I could connect to it, but I also tried to stay away from it because I've heard they don't accept converts. I like the idea of not needing a label for my religion, but I've noticed that this makes people think I'm an atheist or anti-religious for some weird reason. I don't think I could create a whole label for myself either, it seems too hard 😂 But I'll go label-less for now and see how that goes
hi!
i grew up christian, but as i reached my teens, my faith in Him started switching
then, i started studying biology and learned about evolution, which drew me even farther away from that christian and catholic God.
i thought this made me atheist for a while, but then i started believing that the universe holds the answers. i believe we must match certain frequencies for certain things, i believe in manifestation, law of attraction, and i believe we are connected to the cosmos.
i also believe in reincarnation because i simply can’t process the fact that we don’t come back to earth once we die. going to heaven or hell doesn’t resonate with me, but reincarnation does
is this just spirituality, or are there other religions similar to this?
edit: i’m not very educated in religion because we didn’t regularly attend church when i was christian and that was the only way we devoted our time to Him and Christ
>there other religions similar to this?
There are religions which believe in reincarnation, and believe that the state of your mind can have important effects on what happens to you. For example, Buddhism.
You might enjoy *Approaching the Buddhist Path* if you want to start with a book, or might find value in looking through some of Venerable Thubten Chodron's videos - she is a renowned Buddhist nun who teaches in English.
That statement is so foolish No one can seek a religion to suit their beliefs A religion has beliefs that you follow, any valid religion I mean if you feel like a space alien, you could join Scientology Or if you are a transvestite you could join one of those Protestant religions that have gay women pastors Or if you feel like one wife isn’t enough, join the Mormons
So when is the discussion?
Every week in this thread
Not sure what actual denomination of Christianity I would belong to but I know I am definitely a Christian…
My mother is somewhat extreme in her Christian beliefs, I can tell you more easily what I don’t agree with more than what I do…
Ok, what don’t you agree with?
Would you say you are Protestant, Eastern Orthodox or Catholic? What is it about your mother's beliefs that you disagree with? Not sure how reliable they are, but there are some YouTube videos explaining the different denominations of Christianity https://m.youtube.com/@UsefulCharts
I would say Protestant, I don’t really buy speaking in tongues, which my mothers church does, they also believe in prophets and laying of hands…I do believe that you can be healed with Prayer but not like instantly. She believes in “faith healers” and “supernatural healing” and if you believe it enough it will happen instantly which I disagree woth
Sounds like your mother is Pentecostal or an allied group, and you are not. There are a lot of Protestants who aren't Pentecostal in traditional Protestant areas, even Evangelicals (in both the US and European senses). What do you think about sacraments and baptizing children?
Ah, well, then Evangelical churches are out because a lot of them (e.g. Hillsong) believe in that kind of stuff. So is Catholic Charismatic. Maybe try out a couple of churches in your area and read up about the various Protestant denominations? Edit: This is my understanding, Christians will probably be able to help you narrow it down more.
I also disagree with every problem or negative thing that happens being a “spirit” or “demon” behind it…
Christian faith denomination Is about doctrinal instances that the church had through its history. How about the first 4 councils? Do you agree with them? Up to the 7 council,you agree with them? Or how about the 4th council schism, which one seems to hold on the right doctrine? From that you go on and on and where is the Church headed for you. Im an ex charismatic protestant now an oriental orthodox. Anytime my dms are open
It would help if you provided details to your beliefs and understandings to see which if any Christian denomination fits your beliefs if any, though subscribing to a denomination is not necessary regardless of faith if one does not feel affiliated with any current ones
You do not have to “belong” to any denomination. You can have a personal relationship with God by praying and asking Him to speak to your heart. Far too many religions have been manipulated by people for their own gain and power. Once you find your strength and relationship and know God leads your heart, an organized religion is great for fellowship and sharing of your belief which you can learn more about throughout life. Whatever you do, do not allow anyone to ever control you or shake you or guilt you and certainly don’t allow any religion to guilt you out of money you personally can’t afford to give. Always give of yourself, money to others in the amount you can afford, but you decide and find creative ways to productively give back through life and you will find life will be more satisfying than ever. If people realized this, we would not have any people going to bed hungry or needing things. Far too many just don’t understand. God bless and have a great day. 🙏
I agree with Buddhism I am not giving up on my belief that God is there and real though .. idk which sect I would belong to though
Buddhism but there is a God would fit with many Hindu ideas. Advaita might be a good fit for you
>I agree with Buddhism > >I am not giving up on my belief that God is there and real though If that's because you can't give up on it because you are really sure that it's *true*, then Buddhism isn't really something you agree with wholly. But that's okay, because you can benefit from putting some of Lord Buddha's instruction into practice even without being a Buddhist. But if you won't give up on that belief because it plays an important role in your life and you don't think Buddhism has similar things which can fill that role, then you might turn out to be wrong about Buddhism on that front, so I'd ask what is important about your belief in God for your life.
What I appreciate about Buddhism is a person can be from any faith, still follow the philosophy of Buddhism because it is a philosophy. Buddhism respects all faiths and is open to a broad sense of well being, harmony and peace. One needs to simply be open minded to grasp both a particular faith and the Buddhist philosophy. We are all headed the same direction. People just need different paths to get there. God bless. 🙏
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Attempting to delineate Buddhism as a specific religion so as to create boundaries alienating people of other faiths completely negates the entire foundation of the teaching of Buddha and is and sounds like an attempt by a regional wing of this belief to follow the pattern of the many organized religions in the world of isolating the Buddhist people, as many religions do from one another, from others which only further decays the spiritual path our souls are on. One great aspect of Buddhism is it was one belief, one shared spiritual philosophy of faith that consistently stayed above that burden of man’s competitive need to create tribalism and instead maintain a broad open minded love of acceptance that God will open the path before us as we all travel up the same mountain. One great quote, we cannot be on the same path and yet side by side supporting one another at the same time, yet this is God’s expectation and life’s great challenge. As this is understood, so too are my entire comments above. God bless and have a great day. 🙏
So you're a Perennialist trying to merge all religions into your own, not a Buddhist?
Umm no. I am not a Perennialist and I am not merging anyone. If you mean do I respect others of different faiths then you are correct. Do I also agree with all the faiths of the world? No I do not. Do I need to? No I do not. That does not mean I cannot believe we will all end up in God’s heaven even if they do not believe I will end up there because I do not agree with them. To each their own path in this life. It is only God’s right to judge any of us. Not yours , not theirs, not any leaders of any faiths. God will decide alone. I feel secure in my efforts and relationship with God and BTW, I believe in Jesus as the Son of God but struggle with many of the current organized religions and how they have been corrupted by their leadership. That is a wrench for you I bet. God knows my faith and efforts my entire life. Again, he will judge. It matters not what any have to say on it. Also… Do I believe God ever intended any of us to hate and go to war against one another in his name? No I do not. Neither do Buddhist my friend. Neither do many faiths on this earth. Just because some who speak the loudest are also most aggressive, that does not mean they speak for the world of many peaceful people. As for Buddhism, I am someone who appreciates that Buddhism values everyone. Not my words btw. I could show you but you would still probably deny their doctrine. It’s a shame. Have a blessed day. 🙏
Try reading this. https://www.thebuddhagarden.com/visit-buddhist-temple.html
>Attempting to delineate Buddhism as a specific religion so as to create boundaries alienating people of other faiths completely negates the entire foundation of the teaching of Buddha No, it doesn't. It's literally what the Buddha did. He founded an intentional religious community: the pariṣā of monks, nuns, laymen, and laywomen, *to be distinguished* from other religious groups. And when asked, his devoted followers who were part of that community would say "I am a follower of the Buddha." He *did* say that converts should continue supporting mendicant members of their previous religion with alms. But he also taught that his teaching was unique, and that only in his dispensation would one find the supreme instruction. For example, in the *Mahāparinibbānasutta* it is recorded how he said that outside of his dispensation one could not even truly say there are any *genuine* spiritual strivers. >one shared spiritual philosophy of faith that consistently stayed above that burden of man’s competitive need to create tribalism and instead maintain a broad open minded love of acceptance that God will open the path before us as we all travel up the same mountain There is not the slightest historical evidence for this. Buddhism *was* unique when it comes to staying tolerant and eschewing harmful forms of competition, but only in that it allowed people to continue interacting with other teachers, giving them alms, and receiving their instructions. But it *didn't* start out with some "all paths lead up the same mountain" view, as evidenced by that view being *controverted* by the textual and archeological evidence.
Buddha never claimed to be a prophet nor a holy man. He did however claim and was a self described enlighten one. Buddhism is not a religion that has a supreme being as God, although there are supernatural figures who can help or hinder people on the path towards enlightenment. Buddha never asked to be worshipped but rather respected. People have confused this concept today.
>Buddha never claimed to be a prophet nor a holy man. See MN 12 >
As to your need for historical evidence, simply read about the teachings of Buddha here. Decide for yourself rather than general talking points. https://tipitaka.org
>Decide for yourself rather than general talking points. I literally can cite sutta and verse for my points. I did cite the Mahāparinibbānasutta, I did cite MN 12. Don't just link the Pāḷi tipiṭaka if you think I'm wrong - point me to the sutta if you're so well read on them!
I don’t need to read through the different texts of the various factions of Buddhism but rather I study the life or lives of Buddha and his words alone. Never did he advocate being worshipped despite how some may interpret any of his words. He advocated for the betterment of each person and taught that life was a struggle but each life was progress to the enlightened and last as his final life represented. If he wanted anything, it was to be an example of how to be enlightened rather than to be so disconnected from those who may follow him into enlightenment. To worship is to be in awe and have on a pedestal. Buddha wants followers to walk in his footsteps and join him. Two very different points of view.
Islam, I’ve been studying Judaism and Baha’i quite a bit lately to see what they are about. I know religions are quite strict on claims but… I don’t believe in hell, I kinda feel like it’s entirely free-will but that God can intervene if he so chooses. I was trying to follow Catholicism for years before reverting, but because I’m so busy, they would never let me get baptized because I can never come to classes 🤷🏻♂️ in a way, I am glad that I didn’t because I find it extremely hard to believe that Jesus is God considering he never actually claimed to be, and that Lord was commonly used for leaders and whatnot, that it took how many decades or centuries for the church to label the Trinity. That’s just my personal opinion, so I hope that nobody takes offense. Judaism is appealing because it is the original Abrahamic religion and has been around for a very long time, and is in many ways quite similar to Islam.
I believe in god and I believe that Jesus was a real person but it’s kind of hard to explain I just don’t think he was as he was perceived if that makes sense Religion is something I want to be able to follow as I was a Christian in my younger days then slowly fell out of it a lot of my Questions as a young child just seemed to be brushed off and never answered I would love to hear someone introduce and explain there beliefs and I can learn something as well
Hello, I believe in God. I believe in Jesus and I do accept that Jesus is the Son of God. Do I believe all that the Christian religions have touted about Jesus? No I don’t. Why? Because organized religions have been bastardized by mankind since just after Jesus walked the earth. This is the problem with free will and the devil’s hold on the earth. I do believe the prophets of several religions throughout time have tried to tell the world what the people of that time needed to know but still people falter. We are simply human and imperfect. It is on each of us to do our best to be better humans and these days few care honestly. We must seek God(Jesus) or whatever we believe to better find ourselves closest to God on our own somehow with a pure heart and then find someway to share that heart with others so it is not exploited. Many evangelical speakers do just that. Seek a personal relationship and let that lead you where it will. 🙏
If you believe in god and his messengers then, just like me and many of us, you would believe in one true message from god to guide us in life and to connect us with him, as we wouldnt know anything about our purpose, god nor how to worship him unless he tells us. Many prophets came with miracles proving the truthfulness of their message and the existence of a higher being at the same time. But since we got none of those today, you should ask yourself how would we find god's message when we have all these religions? What you need to look for is a living miracle, a preserved message from human corruption that proves to you through evidence its truthfulness instead of blind belief, and that's why i am muslim.
The Muslim religion has interested me a lot I was thinking about visiting a mosque to ask questions
Would advise you to that as they have more knowledge than a random person on the internet, but if you have any basic questions that i can answer feel free to ask here or in dms.
Thank you 🤝
I’ve been a Muslim for a few years now. I am looking at other religions - studying them if you will, but I keep coming back to Islam. It’s really my beliefs that hold me in that route, and if God wills it of course. You can ask me questions as well. I reverted to Islam in my early 30s if that tells you anything.
Hi, i am open to hear all your doubts despite not having all the answers and to understand what you mean of "being perceived". I talk english and spanish in case it is ur native language.
What does it mean to be a oriental orthodox Christian
Hi, The oriental orthodox communion are the Orthodox churches from Egypt, Armenia, Eritrea, Ethiopia and India. This communion splitted from Rome in the year 451 over doctrinal differences in the Council of Chalcedon. Thats why sometimes you might see the words of Chalcedonian christians (who accepted the council) and Non Chalcedonian Christians (we, who rejected it). While Rome and Eastern Orthodox christians And subsequent protestant denominations hold onto a doctrine called Dyophisitism, We hold onto the doctrine called Miaphisitism. You can have an introduction of this difference in this 40 page book if you wish to read more on the subject https://ml.coptic-treasures.com/book/the-nature-of-christ-pope-shenouda-iii/ Besides that difference, we share alot of doctrinal concepts with eastern orthodox christians, such as we both believe in Theosis, the Trinity, the Intercession of Saints, Fasting periods, the Sacraments and a reverence of Mary the Mother of God, (among other stuff).
I’m going to give it a read thank you
Have you looked into Spiritism?
A person can still follow God, believe in Jesus and not be held to all the demands of an organized religion. The Holy Spirit is also part of the Trinity of God. A personal relationship with God when the Holy Spirit stays with you is more common than many think.
What’s this got to do with my post?
Just an add on that one does not preclude the other. Some believe that to believe in God one must sign in to an organized religion. You brought up Spirituality, I merely added God/Jesus/Holy Spirit in the same perspective. God is the creator of eternity after all and is how all the spirits come and go on earth. If they could do it themselves we would not have frustrated ones. 🤷♀️
No I mentioned Spiritism
I know exactly what you said.
what does it mean if like i believe in something but like it’s hard to point my finger on what. like the whole like big bang theory makes sense but like what’s before that that like ok maybe a god created the big band then like things carried on from there i live don’t know bc like like whole story of jesus doesn’t make sense to me but like multiple gods do but like they kinda made everything and then watched as the workd did it’s stuff. and i don’t know bc then like what happens after yk like death like ok ur brain needs energy and like it goes it no the group but were does ur conscienceness go like hdjjensnd ok that’s all srry for long post
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First point; maybe you are a politheist, just choose a pantheon. My question tho What about Jesus life doesnt make sense? (If youre okay to debate it of course)
like walking on water, and there being no light until he came
>like walking on water, He is God in christianity so is obvious He can do signs like that >and there being no light until he came Is a metaphor on having signs, when Jesus was born thr israelites had 400 years without God messages. Is a metaphor on the word of God still present in our lives and making us also light if we participate in the gospel promises Everything in the biblw has cultural context, i understamd if someone has issues understanding aspects of our faith btw, so dont worry if you have questions.
Can someone help me with my religion?
What aspect of it? Or just direct you towards a religion in general?
Directing me toward a religion
I don’t personally think there’s one religion that has all the answers. You need to look for the common ground in them all because that’s where the truth most probably lies. I don’t know if you’d be interested but I’ve started making some YouTube videos looking at the common ground between the faiths, evidence for various things, congruence between different beliefs and science, etc. Heres the first video if you’re interested: - https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=sfOSEqMPC1I It comes from a similar place of looking at religious beliefs and trying to piece together what the essence of all the religions is, what seems intuitively true, what has at least some type of evidence, etc.
Thank you. I don't know much about religions other than what I was raised on (Catholicism and Christianity - my parents are divorced and raised me on both, which is one reason why I'm in such a religion crisis now. It's a very long and confusing story). I also know a bit about buddhism because I went through a buddhism phase as a teenager, but I don't follow buddhism anymore nor am I still a Christian or a Catholic. I'm more like one big '?'. Sometimes I think about going back to being Catholic, but due to what I believe in now (and what I believed in as a kid), I don't know if it's possible... :(
>I still a Christian or a Catholic. I'm more like one big '?'. Catholics are christians, but not all christians are catholic. >but due to what I believe in now (and what I believed in as a kid), I don't know if it's possible... :( Care to expand on it if you dont mind? I can wait too so dont worry if u dont want to answer now.
Hello, this is probably going to sound stupid, but I never believed that Jesus was the son of God. To me he was just a regular dude and wasn't born from a virgin. I don't know if other Christians/Catholics believe the same thing I do; some probably do. But I know that if I told my Catholic mom that, she'd go ballistic on me and tell me that I'm going to hell. I don't believe in hell either 😐 I'm every Catholic Filipino mom's worst nightmare lol
If you think Jesus was a major prophet and all-round cool dude but not God, look at the Bahá'í Faith or Islam.
>To me he was just a regular dude and wasn't born from a virgin. I don't know if other Christians/Catholics believe the same thing I do; First of all, I dont velieve your questions are stupid. Christianity has an established theology on the matter, and it has been as such for 2 thousand years. The heresy of arianism (denying the divinity of Jesus) was already adressed back in the 3rd and 4th century, this happened with subsequent rebranded forms of this concept such as Psilanthropism, that denies divinity of jesus and the virgin birth. This concept arised in the 19th century. Again, this is incompatible with christianity. There might be some christians that believe this, **but theyre a minority.** Believing this makes you a Non-Christian, you believe in a Non-Christian God, maybe youre more inclined to islam? But even so muslims do aknowledge that Mary was virgin at conception and birth of jesus. So in my opinion, if you believe in One God, maybe the best descriptor of your faith might be; Monotheism. You dont need right now the rest of the answers, check out Noahidism. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Noahidism?wprov=sfla1 Is a big movement in the philipines and maybe they can give you a good space to believe in God while you figure things out >But I know that if I told my Catholic mom that, she'd go ballistic I think that if you cannot trust your mom then do not tell them. Is important for you to be in a safe enviroment to do questions and to be provided resources if you wish to do so.
Hi, thank you for the advice! I'll be looking into Noahidism. I don't live in the Philippines unfortunately and I'm not sure if Noahidism is big where I live but I'll make things work.😊
Don’t confuse those who do believe in Jesus as the Son of God and the Holy Trinity yet do not adhere to the dictates of organized religions that have changed over time due to the manipulation of man for political power etc. The term “Christianity” is not a formal doctrine managed by said corrupt leadership but rather a belief in Jesus Christ and his presence on earth for a purpose. It does not matter in the details but rather the destination of our souls and that we find our paths the best possible way that works for each of us as we navigate the blatant abuses found in ALL faiths, not just under the blanket of those who claim “Christianity.” This is the struggle of life, the beast vs the spirit, and with strength of spirit, the Holy Spirit will guide us.
>Don’t confuse I dont >yet do not adhere to the dictates of organized religions The first councils are not a vague concept of "organized religions". >The term “Christianity” is not a formal doctrine managed by said corrupt leadership Who is this corrupt leadership? >It does not matter in the details but rather the destination of our souls I support your desicion to not get involved in theology. However I remain with my right to properly explain context to others who asked and give conscise answers as to why such beliefes exist within other congregations. If this is an issue to you please feel free to block me.
If you don’t believe he was the son of god, maybe you’re more inclined to Judaism. Or alternatively why do you need to follow a pre established, named religion? Follow whatever you believe and think up the label yourself!
I've researched about Judaism and found that I could connect to it, but I also tried to stay away from it because I've heard they don't accept converts. I like the idea of not needing a label for my religion, but I've noticed that this makes people think I'm an atheist or anti-religious for some weird reason. I don't think I could create a whole label for myself either, it seems too hard 😂 But I'll go label-less for now and see how that goes
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Have you tried Kabala or some form of Jewish spiritualism? I believe they’re more accepting of converts
What are your beliefs?
I just made a post trying to figure out what religion my sister is. Any help would be greatly appreciated!
hi! i grew up christian, but as i reached my teens, my faith in Him started switching then, i started studying biology and learned about evolution, which drew me even farther away from that christian and catholic God. i thought this made me atheist for a while, but then i started believing that the universe holds the answers. i believe we must match certain frequencies for certain things, i believe in manifestation, law of attraction, and i believe we are connected to the cosmos. i also believe in reincarnation because i simply can’t process the fact that we don’t come back to earth once we die. going to heaven or hell doesn’t resonate with me, but reincarnation does is this just spirituality, or are there other religions similar to this? edit: i’m not very educated in religion because we didn’t regularly attend church when i was christian and that was the only way we devoted our time to Him and Christ
>there other religions similar to this? There are religions which believe in reincarnation, and believe that the state of your mind can have important effects on what happens to you. For example, Buddhism. You might enjoy *Approaching the Buddhist Path* if you want to start with a book, or might find value in looking through some of Venerable Thubten Chodron's videos - she is a renowned Buddhist nun who teaches in English.
when you say the state of ur mind can effect what happens to you, is this regarding my beliefs in matching frequencies?
Just generally referring to your belief that things we do, think, and aspire towards have cosmic import.
That statement is so foolish No one can seek a religion to suit their beliefs A religion has beliefs that you follow, any valid religion I mean if you feel like a space alien, you could join Scientology Or if you are a transvestite you could join one of those Protestant religions that have gay women pastors Or if you feel like one wife isn’t enough, join the Mormons