NationStates Jolt Archive


What religion are you?

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United O-Zone
19-04-2006, 22:53
This is basically a place to discuss what religion you consider yourself, and why you have chosen this religion. SPAMMERS/MISSIONARIES WILL BE BURNED AT THE STAKE!
Kilobugya
19-04-2006, 22:54
No atheist, no agnostic ? What's a biased poll...
Pure Metal
19-04-2006, 22:56
i don't even think about religion unless other people bring it up.... which is mostly on this forum.

i could live a totally a-religious life quite happily if it wasn't for this place. athiest i suppose...
Call to power
19-04-2006, 22:56
agnostic or as I like to call it "meh"
Thriceaddict
19-04-2006, 22:56
None.
Religion sucks.
Ifreann
19-04-2006, 22:57
No atheist, no agnostic ? What's a biased poll...
Quite, I don't expect we'll get many Daoists of Confucians. And quite a few 'Others'
Hokan
19-04-2006, 22:57
Luthist.
Drunk commies deleted
19-04-2006, 22:57
None. I'm an atheist.
IL Ruffino
19-04-2006, 22:58
Why was Jewish AFTER Other??

:eek: :eek: :eek:
Kazcaper
19-04-2006, 22:59
Atheist. Don't care enough about the subject to say I'm a strong atheist...except when some individuals start proselytising at me, and then I get angry.
Smunkeeville
19-04-2006, 23:00
Christian--->Protestant------>Southern Baptist
United O-Zone
19-04-2006, 23:02
No atheist, no agnostic ? What's a biased poll...

Atheists and agnostics can vote for Other!
Swilatia
19-04-2006, 23:03
Atheist!
Swilatia
19-04-2006, 23:04
Atheists and agnostics can vote for Other!
Thats too wide.
United O-Zone
19-04-2006, 23:04
Why was Jewish AFTER Other??

:eek: :eek: :eek:

Because there are more Other people in the world then there are Jewish people. I know that's sad, but 6 million of them were wiped out by Mr. Short Dark-Haired Austrian Midget. I'm not an anti-Semite so don't even start.
Ifreann
19-04-2006, 23:04
Atheists and agnostics can vote for Other!
Other is going to be pretty popular. But that's as much because there's only space for 10(?) options on a poll.
Swilatia
19-04-2006, 23:04
agnostic or as I like to call it "meh"
agnostic is not a religion
United O-Zone
19-04-2006, 23:05
Other is going to be pretty popular. But that's as much because there's only space for 10(?) options on a poll.

9, actually. And, no, it's not that wide, atheists and agnostics fall into the category of "Not major religions"
United O-Zone
19-04-2006, 23:06
agnostic is not a religion

Yes it is.
Little India
19-04-2006, 23:06
Atheist

I swore a solemn oath to God that I would be an atheist until the day I die, and then when St. Peter meets me at the gates of Heaven, I have this whole story about how I was a virtuous Catholic. God agreed, so why not?
United O-Zone
19-04-2006, 23:07
Atheist

I swore a solemn oath to God that I would be an atheist until the day I die, and then when St. Peter meets me at the gates of Heaven, I have this whole story about how I was a virtuous Catholic. God agreed, so why not?


101 (lol in 1337 speak)
Smunkeeville
19-04-2006, 23:08
Atheist

I swore a solemn oath to God that I would be an atheist until the day I die, and then when St. Peter meets me at the gates of Heaven, I have this whole story about how I was a virtuous Catholic. God agreed, so why not?
LOL

you made an oath to God that you would be an atheist

that's hilarious.
Thriceaddict
19-04-2006, 23:08
Yes it is.
No it isn't. Religion is organized.
Szanth
19-04-2006, 23:08
Deist.
Call to power
19-04-2006, 23:09
agnostic is not a religion

I believe that I don't believe either way which involves a pretty big amount of faith if you ask me
Ifreann
19-04-2006, 23:09
9, actually. And, no, it's not that wide, atheists and agnostics fall into the category of "Not major religions"
How are they not major religions?
Ifreann
19-04-2006, 23:10
No it isn't. Religion is organized.
Discordianism.


Next.
Szanth
19-04-2006, 23:11
No it isn't. Religion is organized.

What I've noticed is that the more agreeable and usually the least hateful religions are unorganized, such as deism and athiesm and agnosticism.

I suppose the terms are interchangable in this instance - "Religion", "Ideology", and "Ideas", though I think "Ideas in practice" would describe them best, it's not very catchy, so people just say "Religion".
Ifreann
19-04-2006, 23:11
101 (lol in 1337 speak)
Leetspeak is bad, never ever use it again. The gods of the English language will reward you for it in an eloquant heaven.
Smunkeeville
19-04-2006, 23:11
Deist.
what exactly does that mean anyway?

can you explain?
Vellia
19-04-2006, 23:12
Belief system:
Christian
Protestant
Evangelical
Reformed/Calvinist
Presbyterian
Somehere between traditional and conservative

Affiliation: Presbyterian Church in the United States of America (PCUSA) :mad: :(
I'll probably end up in the Presbyterian Church of America after this summer's General Assembly :)
Swilatia
19-04-2006, 23:12
Yes it is.
No, sir. it is not. agnosticism means you you think it will always be unknown wheter there is a god. one can be almost any religion, and also be agnostic at the same time.
Andysine
19-04-2006, 23:13
agnostic is not a religion

Technically it is not a religion, as many agnostics and atheists would reject the idea of religion handed down from a higher being, but it should really have been included in the poll.


1) Atheism: A belief that there is no God or higher deity.

2) Agnostic: A belief that we cannot ever know whether there is a God or not.

3) Apathy: A belief that you don't know and don't care whether there is a God or not.

I'm definately number 1, but I get annoyed when people misuse number 2. Agnostisism is not just "I don't know whether there is a God or not," it is more subtly "I believe we can't know whether there is a God or not."
Call to power
19-04-2006, 23:13
No it isn't. Religion is organized.

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

3rd largest religion in your face Hinduism:p
Swilatia
19-04-2006, 23:15
101 (lol in 1337 speak)
your compinig inernet slang and 1337?
using one is fine, but writing internet slang words in 1337 is taking it a little too far.
Szanth
19-04-2006, 23:15
what exactly does that mean anyway?

can you explain?

It's essentially what Christianity is supposed to be.

Christianity, the word = "Of Christ", "Those who follow Christs example", etc.

Obviously Christianity has veered off the path of its own name. Deists, for the most part, believe that the bible and the church are to blame for this, along with general ignorance of who Jesus was and what his actual message was.

So in a nutshell, it's being a good person and following Christs' example of tolerance, understanding, and love, while keeping the bible and the church out of it so it doesn't confuse the message.



... Or you could just call me a left-wing long-haired freaky baby-eating liberal hippie, like some old guy once did. :p
H N Fiddlebottoms VIII
19-04-2006, 23:16
Yes it is.
A religion requires you to make a definitive statement about the nature of Deities, agnosticism doesn't. One can argue about atheism being a religion, but agnostics don't come close by any measure.
And I would probably qualify as an Atheist, though I periodically worship Pride and the Human capacity for destruction.
The New Diabolicals
19-04-2006, 23:16
I'm an atheist, if that's even a religion. If I had to choose a real religion from the poll I would pick buddhism because they worship nature instead of some all-powerful, omniscient deity.
Swilatia
19-04-2006, 23:17
2) Agnostic: A belief that we cannot ever know whether there is a God or not.

In case you do not realise, thats what I said.:headbang:
Szanth
19-04-2006, 23:18
It's essentially what Christianity is supposed to be.

Christianity, the word = "Of Christ", "Those who follow Christs example", etc.

Obviously Christianity has veered off the path of its own name. Deists, for the most part, believe that the bible and the church are to blame for this, along with general ignorance of who Jesus was and what his actual message was.

So in a nutshell, it's being a good person and following Christs' example of tolerance, understanding, and love, while keeping the bible and the church out of it so it doesn't confuse the message.



... Or you could just call me a left-wing long-haired freaky baby-eating liberal hippie, like some old guy once did. :p

Oh, I almost forgot one of the more defining characteristics of the religion:

Whereas most religions worship god, we see him as more of a friend and/or father figure than one to be worshipped. Essentially, "The one thing god couldn't have without humans wasn't followers - he could've created sheep for that. He created humans for companionship and friendship."
Andysine
19-04-2006, 23:19
In case you do not realise, thats what I said.:headbang:
Sorry, that was directed at some earlier posters who were misusing the word agnostic
Szanth
19-04-2006, 23:19
I'm an atheist, if that's even a religion. If I had to choose a real religion from the poll I would pick buddhism because they worship nature instead of some all-powerful, omniscient deity.

Technically they worship Buddha, even though he didn't want to be worshipped.
Smunkeeville
19-04-2006, 23:19
It's essentially what Christianity is supposed to be.

Christianity, the word = "Of Christ", "Those who follow Christs example", etc.

Obviously Christianity has veered off the path of its own name. Deists, for the most part, believe that the bible and the church are to blame for this, along with general ignorance of who Jesus was and what his actual message was.

So in a nutshell, it's being a good person and following Christs' example of tolerance, understanding, and love, while keeping the bible and the church out of it so it doesn't confuse the message.



... Or you could just call me a left-wing long-haired freaky baby-eating liberal hippie, like some old guy once did. :p

of course you wouldn't actually eat babies, you know since Jesus wouldn't do that.

btw, how do you "follow Jesus' example" while rejecting the Bible? Isn't the Bible where you would learn about Jesus and what he was all about?
Zolworld
19-04-2006, 23:21
How are they not major religions?

Because they dont have rituals or rules or places of worship. they have nothing sacred and no supernatural beliefs. they have none of the elements of religions. I suppose you could call them positions relative to religion, but calling atheism a relgion is like calling not believing in santa a religion.
Vellia
19-04-2006, 23:22
It's essentially what Christianity is supposed to be.

Christianity, the word = "Of Christ", "Those who follow Christs example", etc.

Obviously Christianity has veered off the path of its own name. Deists, for the most part, believe that the bible and the church are to blame for this, along with general ignorance of who Jesus was and what his actual message was.

So in a nutshell, it's being a good person and following Christs' example of tolerance, understanding, and love, while keeping the bible and the church out of it so it doesn't confuse the message.



... Or you could just call me a left-wing long-haired freaky baby-eating liberal hippie, like some old guy once did. :p

I've always heard Deism defined as the belief that God created the world and then left. If that's true then a Deist wouldn't believe that Jesus was who He cliamed to be: God. Or am I wrong?
Little India
19-04-2006, 23:22
LOL

you made an oath to God that you would be an atheist

that's hilarious.

Thankyou. I'm glad you find it funny.
Call me a postmodernist if you will, but I think that religion is outdated* and that I don't need religion to fall back on.

About 15/16 months ago - and ever since then - my family has experienced massive problems - I won't bore you with the details - and the agnostic me, part believer part skeptic, died, and the hideous anti-religious me was born.
~~Mini flags!~~
I gave up on God, I figured that really, the hypothetical theory that is a supreme being and a creator of all the world is fantasy, created by man to give some reason for all the sh*t happening in his life.
I decided to accept that the sh*t was there, and that "God" had nothing to do with it, but it was the cause of certain bastard members of my family that tore apart my life as I knew it. No joke.

*Prays to God** that nobody starts kicking my arse because I said that

**Must remember to stop saying God and praying to God
Ifreann
19-04-2006, 23:22
A religion requires you to make a definitive statement about the nature of Deities, agnosticism doesn't. One can argue about atheism being a religion, but agnostics don't come close by any measure.
And I would probably qualify as an Atheist, though I periodically worship Pride and the Human capacity for destruction.

Agnostics state that nobody can ever know if there is a deity or not.
H N Fiddlebottoms VIII
19-04-2006, 23:25
I've always heard Deism defined as the belief that God created the world and then left. If that's true then a Deist wouldn't believe that Jesus was who He cliamed to be: God. Or am I wrong?
No, no, no.
Deism is the belief that God made the world and then stepped on it.
Ifreann
19-04-2006, 23:28
No, no, no.
Deism is the belief that God made the world and then stepped on it.
I thought that was Monty Pythonism
Szanth
19-04-2006, 23:29
of course you wouldn't actually eat babies, you know since Jesus wouldn't do that.

btw, how do you "follow Jesus' example" while rejecting the Bible? Isn't the Bible where you would learn about Jesus and what he was all about?

Big misconception. The bible is where you learn what the people AROUND Jesus were all about. The apostles made chapters, the old testament is a big part of it, people edited a lot of the content... it gets very dilluted and confusing, when really the only one that matters is Jesus himself, and even in the bible they skip something like twenty years of his life.

While it's true we would know little about Jesus without the bible, we've used the information at hand to know that regardless of whether or not he was created directly from god (impregnating Mary himself), he was a very divine person whose example everyone would benefit from.

Even if just two or three people succeeded in imitating him in his way of life (understanding, trust, love, everything positive in general) then it would send shockwaves of positive energy through the areas they go through via the people they interact with.

You ever pass by someone who looked directly at you and smiled kindly, not judging in any way at all, simply greeting you as a human and a worthy being in the link that connects us all together? If it's ever happened to you, you know just that one little experience can lift your entire day to a whole new level, if not your week or your entire life sometimes.

Just treating people like human beings can make a big difference. Caring for eachother is a big part of Deism, as a larger goal to help make the whole world a better place.

Slightly idealistic, no? It is, and I'm proud of it. Without idealists, we'd never stand a chance at making our lives truly ideal, or at least close.
Vellia
19-04-2006, 23:30
No, no, no.
Deism is the belief that God made the world and then stepped on it.

Stepped on it or stepped into it?

And if you're correct what's all this about the founding fathers not being Christians but Deists? That's what all the contemporary historians have said, isn't it? They always point out Thomas Jefferson.
H N Fiddlebottoms VIII
19-04-2006, 23:30
Agnostics state that nobody can ever know if there is a deity or not.
Which is hardly a definitive statement.
An easy analogy ('cuz I'm lazy like that) would be to imagine three men in a dark room.
The religious man says "There is a chandelier in this room, but we can't feel it because it is dangling just out of reach"; the atheist says "There is no chandelier in this room because I have no proof of its existence"; and the agnostic says: "The fuck? Its dark in here, how am I supposed to know about the furniture?"
Szanth
19-04-2006, 23:31
I've always heard Deism defined as the belief that God created the world and then left. If that's true then a Deist wouldn't believe that Jesus was who He cliamed to be: God. Or am I wrong?

Deism is very unorganized. It may be that there's another religion floating around that associates the name with what they believe personally, but I and my friends have no affiliation with them if they exist.
Vellia
19-04-2006, 23:32
Big misconception. The bible is where you learn what the people AROUND Jesus were all about. The apostles made chapters, the old testament is a big part of it, people edited a lot of the content... it gets very dilluted and confusing, when really the only one that matters is Jesus himself, and even in the bible they skip something like twenty years of his life.

While it's true we would know little about Jesus without the bible, we've used the information at hand to know that regardless of whether or not he was created directly from god (impregnating Mary himself), he was a very divine person whose example everyone would benefit from.

Even if just two or three people succeeded in imitating him in his way of life (understanding, trust, love, everything positive in general) then it would send shockwaves of positive energy through the areas they go through via the people they interact with.

You ever pass by someone who looked directly at you and smiled kindly, not judging in any way at all, simply greeting you as a human and a worthy being in the link that connects us all together? If it's ever happened to you, you know just that one little experience can lift your entire day to a whole new level, if not your week or your entire life sometimes.

Just treating people like human beings can make a big difference. Caring for eachother is a big part of Deism, as a larger goal to help make the whole world a better place.

Slightly idealistic, no? It is, and I'm proud of it. Without idealists, we'd never stand a chance at making our lives truly ideal, or at least close.

I thought her point was that one cannot know what Jesus said or did if one doesn't read the Bible. Or is Deism one of those Neo-orthodox things?
Jerusalas
19-04-2006, 23:32
No ability to select more than one religion? WTF?
Vellia
19-04-2006, 23:34
Deism is very unorganized. It may be that there's another religion floating around that associates the name with what they believe personally, but I and my friends have no affiliation with them if they exist.

I guess what I'm asking is who stole who's name? Which one came later? If your belief came first, Jefferson needed a different name. If Jefferson's belief came first, you need a different name. (No offense, it makes things easier.)
Ventinc
19-04-2006, 23:34
I am athiest, although I am willing to testify that there could be a God, as I don't truly know. I just don't believe that there is.

Sadly, I am "officially" a Catholic to all I know personally, as my family is very Catholic. And I have to keep my athiesm secret for the next four years, until I go to college and move out, as if I tell my parents chances are they will try and make me Catholic and take away my computer, claiming it is the source of my infidel status.
H N Fiddlebottoms VIII
19-04-2006, 23:35
Stepped on it or stepped into it?
On, as in *squish*
It's a reference to a book of excerpts from college essays I had a while back. It also had such gems as "Another problem was that France was full of French people", because blue books just bring out the worst in some people.
And if you're correct what's all this about the founding fathers not being Christians but Deists? That's what all the contemporary historians have said, isn't it? They always point out Thomas Jefferson.
Thomas Jefferson changed religions as often as he changed his underwear, and the rest of the founding fathers were just foot fungus of the Divine.
Swilatia
19-04-2006, 23:35
No ability to select more than one religion? WTF?
Who follows more than one religion??
Europa Maxima
19-04-2006, 23:36
Loosely Catholic.
Europa Maxima
19-04-2006, 23:37
Who follows more than one religion??
Insane people.
Vellia
19-04-2006, 23:37
I am athiest, although I am willing to testify that there could be a God, as I don't truly know. I just don't believe that there is.

Sadly, I am "officially" a Catholic to all I know personally, as my family is very Catholic. And I have to keep my athiesm secret for the next four years, until I go to college and move out, as if I tell my parents chances are they will try and make me Catholic and take away my computer, claiming it is the source of my infidel status.

I have to deal with that, also. I only have a few months though. And I'm going from staunch to stauncher but the idea's the same. Have to wait before you reveal your true colors. Hang on! But I wish you would reconsider Christianity. Sorry, I'm not supposed to evngelize, but I can't help it.
Not Quite Dead Peoples
19-04-2006, 23:38
Belief system:
Christian
Protestant
Evangelical
Reformed/Calvinist
Presbyterian
Somehere between traditional and conservative

Affiliation: Presbyterian Church in the United States of America (PCUSA) :mad: :(
I'll probably end up in the Presbyterian Church of America after this summer's General Assembly :)

Yes! Presbyterians Unite!
Vellia
19-04-2006, 23:40
Yes! Presbyterians Unite!

What type of Presby are you?
Europa Maxima
19-04-2006, 23:41
I have to deal with that, also. I only have a few months though. And I'm going from staunch to stauncher but the idea's the same. Have to wait before you reveal your true colors. Hang on! But I wish you would reconsider Christianity. Sorry, I'm not supposed to evngelize, but I can't help it.
Catholicism rules.
Jerusalas
19-04-2006, 23:42
Insane people.

AKA the Japanese.

Buddhism and Daoism, if memory serves, are religions that can be mixed and matched with most other religions fairly freely (of course, certain concessions have to be made on both sides, but nowhere near as many as would be needed to be, say, a Jewish-Christian).
Not Quite Dead Peoples
19-04-2006, 23:42
What type of Presbyterian are you?

more reformed, member of the Presbyterian Church of the USA (I think-I know its the larger of the two in America)
Rock My Monkey
19-04-2006, 23:42
Pastafarian here. I wait for the beer volcanos because no afterlife is better. :cool:
Vellia
19-04-2006, 23:43
Catholicism rules.

Not over me! I left with Luther and Calvin. :p
Europa Maxima
19-04-2006, 23:43
AKA the Japanese.

Buddhism and Daoism, if memory serves, are religions that can be mixed and matched with most other religions fairly freely (of course, certain concessions have to be made on both sides, but nowhere near as many as would be needed to be, say, a Jewish-Christian).
True. Although I doubt the OP can change the poll structure now.
Not Quite Dead Peoples
19-04-2006, 23:45
Not over me! I left with Luther and Calvin. :p

...and came to Scotland with John Knox...
Vellia
19-04-2006, 23:47
more reformed, member of the Presbyterian Church of the USA (I think-I know its the larger of the two in America)

There are more than two. A lot don't have Presbyterian in the name. More often they have Reformed in the name. But if you're in the largest, you're in the PCUSA. I'm anxious for this upcoming General Assembly. We'll probably end up splitting. The only other option is excommunication, but that will never happen. That word scares the people.
Judge Learned Hand
19-04-2006, 23:47
Atheists and agnostics can vote for Other!
16% (1.1 billion people) of people surveyed worldwide are "Not Religious" (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Largest_religion).

That's more than Hinduism, Judaism, or Buddhism. Omitting them from this poll really sucks and betrays your bias.
Europa Maxima
19-04-2006, 23:47
Not over me! I left with Luther and Calvin. :p
Damn that Elisabeth I.
Europa Maxima
19-04-2006, 23:48
16% of the world's population are "Not Religious" (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Largest_religion).

That's more than Hinduism, Judaism, or Buddhism. Omitting them from this poll really sucks and betrays your bias.
Since when is atheism a religion? :rolleyes:
Vellia
19-04-2006, 23:48
...and came to Scotland with John Knox...

Not too fast, I'm still in Geneva with my Swiss and German ancestors.
Pretanian Wood Smoke
19-04-2006, 23:48
I am a polyontologist. As such, I am a hard polytheist (belief in actual multiple spirits, deities, etc) who accepts that most gods/loa/kami and religions are functionally real.

So I follow the concept of 'If you see a temple, stop and pray.' In other words, I pay my respects where I'm welcome.

I especially like Shintoism, Celtic heathenism, Hinduism, and Satanism.
Not Quite Dead Peoples
19-04-2006, 23:49
Damn that Elisabeth I.

uhmmm...Elizabth I actually came well after Luther and Calvin
Bejerot
19-04-2006, 23:49
I'm an atheist, if that's even a religion. If I had to choose a real religion from the poll I would pick buddhism because they worship nature instead of some all-powerful, omniscient deity.

Actually, animistic religions are the ones that worship nature, such as Shinto.

I don't know much about the other schools of Buddhism, but I'm Mahayana. We concentrate on compassion and vow to continue in samsara until every being attains enlightenment. If we build up enough merit, it can be passed onto other beings to speed up this process. Technically we have a lot of gods that we can worship, but most Mahayana worship Avalokiteshvara (also called Kuan Yin or Kannon).

So yeah, Mahayana Buddhist here. I didn't go to church until I was almost a teenager and my parents decided to take me to a Methodist church, and now they go to a non-denominational church. I like going there because of the singing :D.
Vellia
19-04-2006, 23:50
Damn that Elisabeth I.

Actually that's the Anglicans and Episcopalians. But she helped the cause!
Europa Maxima
19-04-2006, 23:50
uhmmm...Elizabth I actually came well after Luther and Calvin
Er yeah, so what? Who actually ended Catholicism in Britain for good?
Europa Maxima
19-04-2006, 23:51
Actually that's the Anglicans and Episcopalians. But she helped the cause!
Too bad her sister didn't show her the light.
Smunkeeville
19-04-2006, 23:51
I am a polyontologist. As such, I am a hard polytheist (belief in actual multiple spirits, deities, etc) who accepts that most gods/loa/kami and religions are functionally real.

So I follow the concept of 'If you see a temple, stop and pray.' In other words, I pay my respects where I'm welcome.

I especially like Shintoism, Celtic heathenism, Hinduism, and Satanism.
curious as to what you mean by functionally real, most religions contradict eachother, so it would be paradoxical in the least if all were true, so I assume that's not what you mean.
Not Quite Dead Peoples
19-04-2006, 23:51
Not too fast, I'm still in Geneva with my Swiss and German ancestors.

Ah. my great-grandparents came to America from Scotland (and the rest of Britain and Prussia)
Vellia
19-04-2006, 23:52
I am a polyontologist. As such, I am a hard polytheist (belief in actual multiple spirits, deities, etc) who accepts that most gods/loa/kami and religions are functionally real.

So I follow the concept of 'If you see a temple, stop and pray.' In other words, I pay my respects where I'm welcome.

I especially like Shintoism, Celtic heathenism, Hinduism, and Satanism.

Celtic heathenism? I've always heard it referred to as Paganism. Heathen, I think, has a more negative connotation to it. Why'd you choose that word?
Judge Learned Hand
19-04-2006, 23:52
Since when is atheism a religion? :rolleyes:

From dictionary.com;
"re·li·gion ( P ) Pronunciation Key (r-ljn) n...
...4. A cause, principle, or activity pursued with zeal or conscientious devotion."

"a·the·ism ( P ) Pronunciation Key (th-zm) n.
1. a. Disbelief in or denial of the existence of God or gods.
b. The doctrine that there is no God or gods."


Seems as if a doctrine qualifies as a "cause, principle, or activity," but thanks for playing.:p
Jerusalas
19-04-2006, 23:53
curious as to what you mean by functionally real, most religions contradict eachother, so it would be paradoxical in the least if all were true, so I assume that's not what you mean.

I believe that they mean that 90% of all religions are the same messege and the other 10% is simply commentary. (Those are, of course, entirely scientific percentages. ;))

It's a Unitarian stance, I believe.
Vellia
19-04-2006, 23:53
Er yeah, so what? Who actually ended Catholicism in Britain for good?

One of the Henrys. I think the 8th. The Pope wouldn't let him divorce again or something, so he left.
Europa Maxima
19-04-2006, 23:53
From dictionary.com;
"re·li·gion ( P ) Pronunciation Key (r-ljn) n...
...4. A cause, principle, or activity pursued with zeal or conscientious devotion."

"a·the·ism ( P ) Pronunciation Key (th-zm) n.
1. a. Disbelief in or denial of the existence of God or gods.
b. The doctrine that there is no God or gods."


Seems as if a doctrine qualifies as a "cause, principle, or activity," but thanks for playing.:p
Atheism is not a religion. Simple as that.
Europa Maxima
19-04-2006, 23:54
One of the Henrys. I think the 8th. The Pope wouldn't let him divorce again or something, so he left.
Yes, he finished the whole thing off. Repulsive slime ball he was.
Jerusalas
19-04-2006, 23:54
Atheism is not a religion. Simple as that.

Yes it is! They worship the deity Athe, remember? ;)
Not Quite Dead Peoples
19-04-2006, 23:55
Er yeah, so what? Who actually ended Catholicism in Britain for good?

Henry VIII, when he wanted a divorce that the Pope wouldn't grant. Then one of the Marys or James tried to bring Catholicism back, but it was too late.
Europa Maxima
19-04-2006, 23:55
Yes it is! They worship the deity Athe, remember? ;)
This was not meant to be known! :eek:
Little India
19-04-2006, 23:55
Another thing I don't understand, is why the Abrahamic religions - Judaism, Chrisitanity and Islam - whilst prescribing to similar beliefs - but different ways of practising said belief and observing from different viewpoints - are so at odds with each other.

Look at the Jyllands-Posten Mohammed Drawings Controversy. The Muslim world was up in arms, to the point of boycotting all Danish products, destroying Danish embassies, and, that which I find the most unacceptable, the burning of the Dannebrog. These deliberate attacks were levelled against those that had no say in the publishing of the cartoons, the Danish government and HM Queen Margerethe II. Yes the drawings were offensive, but why did the Muslim world have to respond in such a way?

If The Times or The Sun published twelve cartoons tomorrow that portrayed God or Jesus in a satirical manner, how many Christians can honestly say they would not simply remark on the distaste or lack of propriety and turn the page?

I wish to make it clear that I don't mean to offend anybody, I am simply making observations of current events.

Another example - one that is probably cited again and again - Israel.
Judaism and Islam both claim that Jerusalem is a Holy City to their religion. And yet they fight over it incessantly. Muslims and Jews all believe in one God and a Prophet. Yes, practices and intricate details of the religions are different, but how do two fundamentally identical religions manage to completely savage one another?

I don't understand.
Religion is simply not for me.
Judge Learned Hand
19-04-2006, 23:55
Atheism is not a religion. Simple as that.

Well you sure showed me, presenting an idea with evidence from a source is certainly far inferior to claiming something without backing it up at all.

Oh wait, maybe in crazy religious nut-land but certainly not in the real world. Either present a source or stop making unfounded claims.
Europa Maxima
19-04-2006, 23:56
Henry VIII, when he wanted a divorce that the Pope wouldn't grant. Then one of the Marys or James tried to bring Catholicism back, but it was too late.
Which would have been a non-issue if Mary had succeeded ab initio.
Dinaverg
19-04-2006, 23:58
Well you sure showed me, presenting an idea with evidence from a source is certainly far inferior to claiming something without backing it up at all.

Oh wait, maybe in crazy religious nut-land but certainly not in the real world. Either present a source or stop making unfounded claims.

How about just looking at the word? Atheism, as in Theism with the prefix 'A-'. You understand how that prefix works right?
Not Quite Dead Peoples
19-04-2006, 23:58
Which would have been a non-issue if Mary had succeeded ab initio.

But the English people didn't really like the Italians, so most local Churches stayed good and Protestant
Bejerot
19-04-2006, 23:59
AKA the Japanese.

Buddhism and Daoism, if memory serves, are religions that can be mixed and matched with most other religions fairly freely (of course, certain concessions have to be made on both sides, but nowhere near as many as would be needed to be, say, a Jewish-Christian).

In Japan, they have a mixture of Buddhism and Shintoism with Buddhism dealing with matters of death and Shintoism dealing with those of life. In China, Confucianism and Buddhism are typically the ones that are blended together, but there is also Daoism--Confucianism forms the basis of Chinese society in terms of morals. Confucianism, in addition, does not have a singular school, as Confucius had students who worked over his teachings after his death.
Europa Maxima
19-04-2006, 23:59
How about just looking at the word? Atheism, as in Theism with the prefix 'A-'. You understand how that prefix works right?
I am not bothering with this one. Fass normally does a good job on atheists who think they believe in a religion. How utterly deluded.
Valori
20-04-2006, 00:02
Roman Catholic. Even though I'm probably not the best example...
Judge Learned Hand
20-04-2006, 00:03
How about just looking at the word? Atheism, as in Theism with the prefix 'A-'. You understand how that prefix works right?

Sure do, however atheism (i.e. the belief there is no god) whether its backed up by good science and logical thought or not (I say yes but not the issue here) is a system of belief claiming to explain certain truths about the world. Just like religion.

Or to put it another way; "The doctrine that there is no God or gods." Sounds kind of like Christianity, you know, "The doctrine that Jesus is the Son of God," (to render it simply).

It also fits into one of the definitions of religion; "A cause, principle, or activity pursued with zeal or conscientious devotion."

I'm not saying atheists "think they're following a religion" but atheism itself bears a striking resemblance to religion itself. To the point where it should have been included on the poll for the sake of completeness. Kind of like its included on the "Worldwide Religious Poll"

Looks like a duck, sounds like a duck, probably is a duck.
Europa Maxima
20-04-2006, 00:04
Sure do, however atheism (i.e. the beliefthere is no god) whether its backed up by good science and logical thought or not (I say yes but not the issue here) is a system of belief claiming to explain certain truths about the world. Just like religion.

Or to put it another way; "The doctrine that there is no God or gods." Sounds kind of like Christianity, you know, "The doctrine that Jesus is the Son of God," (to render it simply).

It also fits into one of the definitions of religion; "A cause, principle, or activity pursued with zeal or conscientious devotion."
Where do you see the zeal or conscientous devotion, pray tell?
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 00:07
Sure do, however atheism (i.e. the beliefthere is no god) whether its backed up by good science and logical thought or not (I say yes but not the issue here) is a system of belief claiming to explain certain truths about the world. Just like religion.

Or to put it another way; "The doctrine that there is no God or gods." Sounds kind of like Christianity, you know, "The doctrine that Jesus is the Son of God," (to render it simply).

It also fits into one of the definitions of religion; "A cause, principle, or activity pursued with zeal or conscientious devotion."

Except I don't pursue it "with zeal or conscientious devotion". I'm just not a Theist, mostly because I have no reason to be. Being an Atheist is simply not being a Theist, hence the prefix "a-" as in not, or without. Atonal? Without tone. Apolitical? Not political. Apathetic? Without feeling. And Atheist? Not Theist.
Judge Learned Hand
20-04-2006, 00:08
Where do you see the zeal or conscientous devotion, pray tell?

You've never met a zealous atheist?

You are not conscientously devoted to atheism?
Not Quite Dead Peoples
20-04-2006, 00:09
Hey! You don't have "Amish" on there! Don't you realize how many Amish people might be offended when they access the forum? :D
Judge Learned Hand
20-04-2006, 00:10
Of course the Amish don't make up 1.1 billion folks but hey what do I know?

:upyours:
Europa Maxima
20-04-2006, 00:10
You've never met a zealous atheist?

You are not conscientously devoted to atheism?
So since when are zealous philosophers considered to belong to a religion then?

Oh, and by the way, check my sig. -_-
Not Quite Dead Peoples
20-04-2006, 00:12
Of course the Amish don't make up 1.1 billion folks but hey what do I know?

:upyours:

What was the ":upyours:" for? Don't you realize that its a joke, because Amish people don't have computers. That was the whole point of the ":D"
Europa Maxima
20-04-2006, 00:13
Of course the Amish don't make up 1.1 billion folks but hey what do I know?

:upyours:
Aren't the Amish Christian to begin with?
Pretanian Wood Smoke
20-04-2006, 00:14
curious as to what you mean by functionally real, most religions contradict eachother, so it would be paradoxical in the least if all were true, so I assume that's not what you mean.


To a certain extent. However I don't apply a scriptural or dogmatic approach. If one religion said that the world was flat while another said that the world was a globe, and I tried to accept the religions as being without error, then I'd have a problem.

Rather I view the various religions as functioning in their own realms and interacting with this one. Kinda like a fish tank full of marbles. each realm has it's own laws and cultures, and these things spill over into this world, leaving their influence. And what happens in one realm doesn't negate the totally different happenings in another realm any more than what goes on in a Papuan New Guinean highland village influences the goings on in a Shanghai nightclub.
Samantabhadra
20-04-2006, 00:14
Tibetan/Vajrayana Buddhist here.

Peace
Sheni
20-04-2006, 00:14
A cause, principle, or activity pursued with zeal or conscientious devotion
So football's a religion?
Judge Learned Hand
20-04-2006, 00:15
As was the :upyours:, sorry should have used <sarcasm></sarcasm>

By the by;

Richard Dawkins..."recently met a minister who was on the opposite side of a British political debate. When the minister put out his hand, Dawkins kept his hands at his side and said, "You, sir, are an ignorant bigot."" Source: http://dir.salon.com/story/news/feature/2005/04/30/dawkins/index.html

Huh that seems like both conscientous devotion and zealousness.
Not Quite Dead Peoples
20-04-2006, 00:15
Aren't the Amish Christian to begin with?

uhmm...I think so. They're the ones who don't use electricty or cars and live in Pensylvania. I used to live there.
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 00:15
You've never met a zealous atheist?

You are not conscientously devoted to atheism?

I'm a zealous Nintendo fanboy (VIVA NINTENDO!). I assume that's a religion now too...
Europa Maxima
20-04-2006, 00:16
So football's a religion?
Or sex.
Europa Maxima
20-04-2006, 00:17
uhmm...I think so. They're the ones who don't use electricty or cars and live in Pensylvania. I used to live there.
Indeed. I think they are devout Christians, although not sure of what creed.
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 00:17
Or sex.

Or the internet.
Judge Learned Hand
20-04-2006, 00:17
Hey it's not my definition take it up with the dictionary.

I prefer, "a system of beliefs and/or practices that claim to express/reveal certain truths about the world."

Course that still qualifies atheism as a religion. Like I said, it looks, sounds, and its adherents (not all of them) occasionally act like religious folks. It should therefore, in the interests of completeness be included on polls like this.:headbang:

Indeed. I think they are devout Christians, although not sure of what creed.
Isn't it some kind of protestantism, Calvinist?
Not Quite Dead Peoples
20-04-2006, 00:18
As was the :upyours:, sorry should have used <sarcasm></sarcasm>

[british accent]jolly good[/]:p
Big Jim P
20-04-2006, 00:18
I am an Agnostic Dyslexic Insomniac: I stay up all night pondering the existance of Dog.:D
Judge Learned Hand
20-04-2006, 00:19
I'm...sorry...?
Jerusalas
20-04-2006, 00:20
Course that still qualifies atheism as a religion. Like I said, it looks, sounds, and its adherents (not all of them) occasionally act like religious folks. It should therefore, in the interests of completeness be included on polls like this.:headbang:

What? Didn't you see the 'Other' option? :p
Europa Maxima
20-04-2006, 00:21
Hey it's not my definition take it up with the dictionary.

I prefer, "a system of beliefs and/or practices that claim to express/reveal certain truths about the world."

Course that still qualifies atheism as a religion. Like I said, it looks, sounds, and its adherents (not all of them) occasionally act like religious folks. It should therefore, in the interests of completeness be included on polls like this.:headbang:
No. It is not a religion. None should be an option, yes. But atheism is not any form of religion. Also, when using dictionaries, realise the context in which they intend the word to operate.


Isn't it some kind of protestantism, Calvinist?
I believe so.
Judge Learned Hand
20-04-2006, 00:21
What you don't grasp that other does not adequately compensate for the size of the group in question?:p

(By the way to head off the rush, my pants don't compensate for the size of my genitalia either)

I didn't claim it is a religion, I claimed it resembled a religion and there are enough adherents to it that it should be included in polls like this as "Atheism" not as an "other" or "none" option. None is weasly and other could included smaller groups such as traditional tribal folks, wicca, etc.
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 00:21
Hey it's not my definition take it up with the dictionary.

Most dictionaries suck (Go World Book and Wikitionary!). I also pursue that stance with zeal.
Pretanian Wood Smoke
20-04-2006, 00:23
Celtic heathenism? I've always heard it referred to as Paganism. Heathen, I think, has a more negative connotation to it. Why'd you choose that word?

Neither paganism or heathenism are celtic words. These days, those realy into it would choose a term from celtic languages (eg. Traidisiún Sinseartha), but heathen or pagan might be a little more convenient.

Heathen does have negative connotations in some circles, but so does pagan. Most of those following a north european polytheist religion would use heathen instead of pagan because that's the region that the word comes from. Pagan has mediteranian origins.

In pagan circles, heathen can seem to have a harsh feeling, and many heathens don't like pagan because they view it as having fluffy bunny associations.

I use whatever appeals at the time and depending upon the audience.
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 00:23
What you don't grasp that other does not adequately compensate for the size of the group in question?:p

(By the way to head off the rush, my pants don't compensate for the size of my genitalia either)

I'm just curious as to where all these Christians came from...I mean, lots of Atheists may be abstaining from the poll but...It seems their numbers have grown...
Judge Learned Hand
20-04-2006, 00:25
I imagine it has something to do with the fact atheism is not a choice on the poll. So only the most zealous and devoted atheists (;) ) will respond as other and explain their positions.
Europa Maxima
20-04-2006, 00:26
What you don't grasp that other does not adequately compensate for the size of the group in question?:p

(By the way to head off the rush, my pants don't compensate for the size of my genitalia either)

I didn't claim it is a religion, I claimed it resembled a religion and there are enough adherents to it that it should be included in polls like this as "Atheism" not as an "other" or "none" option. None is weasly and other could included smaller groups such as traditional tribal folks, wicca, etc.
They would go for other. Those are forms of religions. Atheism is the lack thereof.
Judge Learned Hand
20-04-2006, 00:28
They would go for other. Those are forms of religions. Atheism is the lack thereof.

So atheism is an "Other" form of religion? I'm sorry but if your an atheist and you responded to the question "What religion are you?" You are implicitly assuming atheism is a form of religion.

As I've said I just think it looks and acts like one, and that the sheer number of its adherents mean it should be included as "Atheism" in polls like this to increase accuracy.
Europa Maxima
20-04-2006, 00:30
So atheism is an "Other" form of religion? I'm sorry but if your an atheist and you responded to the question "What religion are you?" You are implicitly assuming atheism is a form of religion.

As I've said I just think it looks and acts like one, and that the sheer number of its adherents mean it should be included as "Atheism" in polls like this to increase accuracy.
"What religion are you?" "None." Wow. I fail to see the difficulty.
Pretanian Wood Smoke
20-04-2006, 00:30
I believe that they mean that 90% of all religions are the same messege and the other 10% is simply commentary. (Those are, of course, entirely scientific percentages. ;))

It's a Unitarian stance, I believe.

Nope. I mean that the Celtic gods are real in their realms, the kami are real in theirs, the buddhas have theirs, Christ/YHWH/HS have their heaven, etc; and they all interact with humans, and probably others in other worlds.

I don't think their messages are the same beyond lessons in social rules (how to get on as a society without collapsing).
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 00:30
So atheism is an "Other" form of religion? I'm sorry but if your an atheist and you responded to the question "What religion are you?" You are implicitly assuming atheism is a form of religion.

As I've said I just think it looks and acts like one, and that the sheer number of its adherents mean it should be included as "Atheism" in polls like this to increase accuracy.

No, that's the problem. Some people are really picky with Atheism being consdidered a religion when it's not, so they wouldn't vote.


My kind of poll would be:
1) I believe in a god
2) Other

But that's just me.
Europa Maxima
20-04-2006, 00:32
No, that's the problem. Some people are really picky with Atheism being consdidered a religion when it's not, so they wouldn't vote.


My kind of poll would be:
1) I believe in a god
2) Other

But that's just me.
I suppose the OP was going for specific religions though.
Judge Learned Hand
20-04-2006, 00:32
"What religion are you?" "None." Wow. I fail to see the difficulty.

Then you fail to think critically.

Atheism is a belief system that resembles the belief system provided by religion.

It has many adherents worldwide.

It cannot be clumped into an "Other" category.

Therefore it should be included on the poll as "Atheism."

A "None" choice is ok, but is a weasel term, call a spade a spade.
Peisandros
20-04-2006, 00:33
Catholic.
Europa Maxima
20-04-2006, 00:33
Then you fail to think critically.

Atheism is a belief system that resembles the belief system provided by religion.

It has many adherents worldwide.

It cannot be clumped into an "Other" category.

Therefore it should be included on the poll as "Atheism."

A "None" choice is ok, but is a weasel term, call a spade a spade.
A-theism = non-theism. None will do just fine.
Judge Learned Hand
20-04-2006, 00:35
Except its a weasel term that may not obviously occur to those of us without your "expertise" in language.

What's your problem with calling it atheism?

EDIT: It occurs to me there are other non-theistic belief systems and religions, agnosticism, some forms of deism, and I appeal to you Eastern Religions folks but do Buddhism and Confuscism have deities?
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 00:37
Except its a weasel term that may not obviously occur to those of us without your "expertise" in language.

What's your problem with calling it atheism?

Nothing, but it's not a religion. If the question was "What is your belief/religion, or lack thereof" just "Atheism" would be appropriate.
Judge Learned Hand
20-04-2006, 00:38
Refer to the above edit. Are you arguing all non-theistic religions/belief systems are atheism are you?
Rskykrestk
20-04-2006, 00:39
deist. i dont believe in organized religions. i dont mean that im an athiest as everyone assumes. i do believe in a God.
when there is an organized religion it contorls masses of people. because the religion is a physical body and a community people are born into (many people are christan becasue their parents raised them to be) there is no chance for an individual to think for themselves and derive their own belief in a God or Gods. if we are allowed to think for ourselfs and who we believe created, or didnt create, us, then our faith in what we've choosen would be far stronger, less and believed blindly.

but i do agree with many buddhist ideas.
Layarteb
20-04-2006, 00:41
agnostic. though I was born & raised Roman Catholic.
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 00:42
Refer to the above edit. Are you arguing all non-theistic religions/belief systems are atheism are you?

Anything not Theism is Atheism. Knowing people here, if I put:
1) Theism
2) Atheism
A bunch of people would be talking about how they're in the middle, or they just don't care, or some such crap. I'd put other for all those people that say "I don't believe one way or the other" and think they abstain from the dichotomy.
Ruloah
20-04-2006, 00:46
Big misconception. The bible is where you learn what the people AROUND Jesus were all about. The apostles made chapters, the old testament is a big part of it, people edited a lot of the content... it gets very dilluted and confusing, when really the only one that matters is Jesus himself, and even in the bible they skip something like twenty years of his life.

While it's true we would know little about Jesus without the bible, we've used the information at hand to know that regardless of whether or not he was created directly from god (impregnating Mary himself), he was a very divine person whose example everyone would benefit from.

Even if just two or three people succeeded in imitating him in his way of life (understanding, trust, love, everything positive in general) then it would send shockwaves of positive energy through the areas they go through via the people they interact with.

You ever pass by someone who looked directly at you and smiled kindly, not judging in any way at all, simply greeting you as a human and a worthy being in the link that connects us all together? If it's ever happened to you, you know just that one little experience can lift your entire day to a whole new level, if not your week or your entire life sometimes.

Just treating people like human beings can make a big difference. Caring for eachother is a big part of Deism, as a larger goal to help make the whole world a better place.

Slightly idealistic, no? It is, and I'm proud of it. Without idealists, we'd never stand a chance at making our lives truly ideal, or at least close.

Yes, someone smiled at me, not knowing that I had just killed and eaten a litter of kittens. And that made my whole day, even more than the tasty kittens!
The UN abassadorship
20-04-2006, 01:14
This was not meant to be known! :eek:
he must be burned at the stake! he could ruin us atheists:p
United O-Zone
20-04-2006, 01:19
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religion

3rd largest religion in your face Hinduism:p

Yeah Hindu pride!
United O-Zone
20-04-2006, 01:21
Except its a weasel term that may not obviously occur to those of us without your "expertise" in language.

What's your problem with calling it atheism?

EDIT: It occurs to me there are other non-theistic belief systems and religions, agnosticism, some forms of deism, and I appeal to you Eastern Religions folks but do Buddhism and Confuscism have deities?

No, but they still have belief systems/writings.
United O-Zone
20-04-2006, 01:22
What is deism anyway?
United O-Zone
20-04-2006, 01:24
No it isn't. Religion is organized.

Not all religion is organized. I don't think Confucianism is...is it? And there are organized agnostic organizations/
Layarteb
20-04-2006, 01:25
What is deism anyway?

You believe in God but believe his role in the world is far removed. He is more like a clockmaker. After his work has been made it is left to run on its own. The American Founding Fathers were deist and if I were to believe in God I would probably move to the same theory on it but that would mean leaving my agnosticism.
Ulysses89
20-04-2006, 01:26
I am an agnostic existentialist! That's EXISTENTIALISM, WHICH IS A PHILOSOPHY BASED ON ATHEISM AND ACTUALLY, SOME ORIGINAL THINGS IN BUDDHISM!!!
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 01:27
You believe in God but believe his role in the world is far removed. He is more like a clockmaker. After his work has been made it is left to run on its own. The American Founding Fathers were deist and if I were to believe in God I would probably move to the same theory on it but that would mean leaving my agnosticism.

Technically, as long as you still don't believe you can even know for sure whether God exists or not, you'd be an Agnostic Deist.
United O-Zone
20-04-2006, 01:27
You believe in God but believe his role in the world is far removed. He is more like a clockmaker. After his work has been made it is left to run on its own. The American Founding Fathers were deist and if I were to believe in God I would probably move to the same theory on it but that would mean leaving my agnosticism.

Hinduism believes that God is basically the Cosmic Force of the Universe. God is pretty much everything and everywhere.
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 01:27
I am an agnostic existentialist! That's EXISTENTIALISM, WHICH IS A PHILOSOPHY BASED ON ATHEISM AND ACTUALLY, SOME ORIGINAL THINGS IN BUDDHISM!!!

Eh, calm down, we heard ya.
United O-Zone
20-04-2006, 01:28
Hinduism believes that God is basically the Cosmic Force of the Universe. God is pretty much everything and everywhere.

God can then manifest himself in different forms, which explains the many gods Hindus worship at the same time.
Awsome-ville 2
20-04-2006, 01:29
Catholic, but it wasn't up there, and we ave different beleifs than Christians.
United O-Zone
20-04-2006, 01:30
I looked up Extentialism on Wikipedia couldn't find anything.
Layarteb
20-04-2006, 01:30
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deism

More on Deism. It's a very respectible and more reason oriented view on God rather than just a matter of faith without basis.
Ladamesansmerci
20-04-2006, 01:31
I looked up Extentialism on Wikipedia couldn't find anything.

That's because it's supposed to be existentialism.
Tweet Tweet
20-04-2006, 01:31
Hinduism believes that God is basically the Cosmic Force of the Universe. God is pretty much everything and everywhere.

*COUGH*

EXCUSE me? That's what Hinduism is? Oh, I bless your ignorance with my atheist heart, I really do.

Perhaps someone should learn a little about what they are attempting to debate before they do so. Or they end up getting kicked in the ass by people who took the time become knowledgable, and therefore have the right to discuss it.
Layarteb
20-04-2006, 01:31
I looked up Extentialism on Wikipedia couldn't find anything.

You aren't spelling it correctly.

Existentialism.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Existentialism
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 01:32
Catholic, but it wasn't up there, and we ave different beleifs than Christians.

You follow Christ? *rubber stamps* Christian.
Ladamesansmerci
20-04-2006, 01:38
Hinduism believes that God is basically the Cosmic Force of the Universe. God is pretty much everything and everywhere.

That would be pantheism. BIG difference from Hinduism. Also, the title of your thread is faulty. Nobody are religions, they may follow them, they may create them, they may even scorn them. But no single person embodies a religion. (anybody quote this to argue Jesus did would get hit in the face with pies.)
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 01:39
That would be pantheism. BIG difference from Hinduism. Also, the title of your thread is faulty. Nobody are religions, they may follow them, they may create them, they may even scorn them. But no single person embodies a religion. (anybody quote this to argue Jesus did would get hit in the face with pies.)

What if you invent a religion then follow it and you're the only follower? And what if he uses 'you' in the plural sense?
Tweet Tweet
20-04-2006, 01:39
That would be pantheism. BIG difference from Hinduism. Also, the title of your thread is faulty. Nobody are religions, they may follow them, they may create them, they may even scorn them. But no single person embodies a religion. (anybody quote this to argue Jesus did would get hit in the face with pies.)

Jesus didn't embody religion. He 'embodied' 'God'. As technically, they are one in the same...to some point...
Tweet Tweet
20-04-2006, 01:41
What if you invent a religion then follow it and you're the only follower? And what if he uses 'you' in the plural sense?

You don't embody the religion itself though. Religion is an institution vased upon a theory. You may hold the theory, but not the institution. It's too heavy. :p
Ladamesansmerci
20-04-2006, 01:42
What if you invent a religion then follow it and you're the only follower? And what if he uses 'you' in the plural sense?

But the title was "what religion are you?" You can't be a religion. A religion is a belief, not an actual physical being!

and Tweety? You get pie smashed in your face. (I know you were hoping for it) :D
Ladamesansmerci
20-04-2006, 01:43
You don't embody the religion itself though. Religion is an institution vased upon a theory. You may hold the theory, but not the institution. It's too heavy. :p

Nah, I would say religions like scientology are surprisingly light, since it seems to carry no thought whatsoever.
Tweet Tweet
20-04-2006, 01:43
But the title was "what religion are you?" You can't be a religion. A religion is a belief, not an actual physical being!

and Tweety? You get pie smashed in your face. (I know you were hoping for it) :D

Why do I get pie in the face?

Ah, who cares?......mmm....pie.....
Tweet Tweet
20-04-2006, 01:44
Nah, I would say religions like scientology are surprisingly light, since it seems to carry no thought whatsoever.

Institution Lady. No matter what, they are a bunch of crazies, and that takes some weight training...:p
Layarteb
20-04-2006, 01:44
You follow Christ? *rubber stamps* Christian.

LOL, sadly that's the way it is.
Cybach
20-04-2006, 01:44
There are more Mormons then Jews <.< that is why it came after others, with over 6 billion people on the world, 15 million is so small as to be insignificant in the big picture. By 2020 , there will be 2.3 Billion Christians, 1.5 Billion Muslims, and how many Jews? At most maybe 16 million. Now I am not an anti-semite, just pointing out some obvious points,.....
Ladamesansmerci
20-04-2006, 01:44
Why do I get pie in the face?

Ah, who cares?......mmm....pie.....

You mentioned Jesus, therefore you get hit by pie. :p
Nikron
20-04-2006, 01:44
2 other Hindus are here! Whoa.
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 01:44
But the title was "what religion are you?" You can't be a religion. A religion is a belief, not an actual physical being!

and Tweety? You get pie smashed in your face. (I know you were hoping for it) :D

Not if a religion is something pursued with zeal. You can pursue a person can't you?
Tweet Tweet
20-04-2006, 01:45
2 other Hindus are here! Whoa.

Not that the creator of this thread would know what you are talking about...
Layarteb
20-04-2006, 01:45
There are more Mormons then Jews <.< that is why it came after others, with over 6 billion people on the world, 15 million is so small as to be insignificant in the big picture. By 2020 , there will be 2.3 Billion Christians, 1.5 Billion Muslims, and how many Jews? At most maybe 16 million. Now I am not an anti-semite, just pointing out some obvious points,.....

Wow only 15 million. I thought there were more.
Ladamesansmerci
20-04-2006, 01:45
There are more Mormons then Jews <.< that is why it came after others, with over 6 billion people on the world, 15 million is so small as to be insignificant in the big picture. By 2020 , there will be 2.3 Billion Christians, 1.5 Billion Muslims, and how many Jews? At most maybe 16 million. Now I am not an anti-semite, just pointing out some obvious points,.....

But how many mormons would there be? Think about that? Maybe they're going into extinction! Not a big blow for mankind, really. :rolleyes:
Tweet Tweet
20-04-2006, 01:46
Not if a religion is something pursued with zeal. You can pursue a person can't you?

Oh yes you can. :D

*pursues Dina with pie in hand*
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 01:47
Oh yes you can. :D

*pursues Dina with pie in hand*

*pursues point on planet furthest from Tweet*
Tweet Tweet
20-04-2006, 01:48
*pursues point on planet furthest from Tweet*

*looks at pie in hand. Decides it is better to eat pie*

mmm...pie...
Communist Party
20-04-2006, 01:49
Communist is always an atheist.
Sweet Shenanigans
20-04-2006, 01:50
Why was Jewish AFTER Other??

:eek: :eek: :eek:

that is a pretty damn good question! I asked myself the same thing.

Jewish Pride all the way! Im proud to say Im an American Jew. Yes, thats right not a Jewish American.
although im not a radicalist
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 01:51
*looks at pie in hand. Decides it is better to eat pie*

mmm...pie...

:D

*buys ice cream cake in Austrailia*
Cybach
20-04-2006, 01:51
I guess this board is evenly split up between Religious and Agnostic/Athiest. With Christian leading for Religious by a wide margin.
Anti-Social Darwinism
20-04-2006, 01:51
Recovering Catholic Neo-Pagan Agnostic with Taoist leanings.
Sel Appa
20-04-2006, 01:51
why is jewish at the bottom? You antisemite! ;)
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 01:51
that is a pretty damn good question! I asked myself the same thing.

Jewish Pride all the way! Im proud to say Im an American Jew. Yes, thats right not a Jewish American.
although im not a radicalist

Because there's only 14 million of you world-wide? I think the U.S. alone has more Atheists.
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 01:52
I guess this board is evenly split up between Religious and Agnostic/Athiest. With Christian leading for Religious by a wide margin.

I dunno, I still think some Atheists here are being prissy...
M3rcenaries
20-04-2006, 01:53
Catholic
Peripheralville
20-04-2006, 01:54
but I am now hovering somewhere between deism and agnosticism. I believe that there is a supreme being, but it's pretty obvious from both personal experience and observing the world that it stopped caring a long time ago. That being said, I was reading the other day the theory of a writer about the message of Jesus. His basic point was that Jesus was not the Messiah, not the Son of God, and he never claimed to be. Instead, his message was that we are all sons of God. I liked that.
Layarteb
20-04-2006, 01:54
Pagan is good, especially old style Paganism.
Tweet Tweet
20-04-2006, 01:56
I dunno, I still think some Atheists here are being prissy...

I hope you don't mean me...I'm just a stickler for detail....:(
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 02:00
I hope you don't mean me...I'm just a stickler for detail....:(

Eh, I dunno. It just seems like a kind of "cut off your nose to spite your face" sort of thing to do, yanno?
Tweet Tweet
20-04-2006, 02:07
Eh, I dunno. It just seems like a kind of "cut off your nose to spite your face" sort of thing to do, yanno?

What seems like a spiteful thing to do? I don't bash religion (much), just those who cannot discuss it because they know nothing about it...though still attempt to....it irks me is all.
Knuk Knuk and Knuk
20-04-2006, 02:07
Non-denominational Christian with some Calvinist leanings. In other words, "Choose! Are you or are you not predestined!" :)
Ladamesansmerci
20-04-2006, 02:08
What seems like a spiteful thing to do? I don't bash religion (much), just those who cannot discuss it because they know nothing about it...though still attempt to....it irks me is all.

You don't bash religion much?

*chokes on water laughing so hard*
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 02:08
What seems like a spiteful thing to do? I don't bash religion (much), just those who cannot discuss it because they know nothing about it...though still attempt to....it irks me is all.

Nah, I'm talking about not voting because that question asks what your religion is and Atheism isn't one. You're doing fine, carry on.
Pretanian Wood Smoke
20-04-2006, 02:09
Pagan is good, especially old style Paganism.

How do you define/view old style paganism (as opposed to neopaganism)?
Tweet Tweet
20-04-2006, 02:09
Nah, I'm talking about not voting because that question asks what your religion is and Atheism isn't one. You're doing fine, carry on.

Oh. Well. I didn't vote because atheism is not a religion. It is the lack of religion that defines us...
Ladamesansmerci
20-04-2006, 02:10
Nah, I'm talking about not voting because that question asks what your religion is and Atheism isn't one. You're doing fine, carry on.

Well, one could argue atheism is a religion, because you BELIEVE there is no god.
Layarteb
20-04-2006, 02:11
How do you define/view old style paganism (as opposed to neopaganism)?

Less hippieish.
Tweet Tweet
20-04-2006, 02:11
Well, one could argue atheism is a religion, because you BELIEVE there is no god.

A big part of atheism is the un-belief in the institution of religion.
Behersk
20-04-2006, 02:12
CHRISTIANITY RULES! (literally)

Muslims got the Middle East and some Africa, but Christianity rules Europe and America (read: the guys in charge)
plus, we got a Pope:)

kinda feel sorry for Jews:( , everybody hates/has hated them:
Egyptians, Romans, Christians, Palestinians, Nazis, Neo-Nazis, anti-semites that didn't fit in these categories, and according to one version of the End Times, the Jews get it worst from the Anti-Christ

Buddhism and Confucianism = China:mp5: = Communists:mp5:
Ladamesansmerci
20-04-2006, 02:13
A big part of atheism is the un-belief in the institution of religion.

Deism is a religion even though it doesn't believe in church dogma or institutionalized religion. Religion doesn't HAVE to be institutionalized. It's just basically what you believe.
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 02:14
Deism is a religion even though it doesn't believe in church dogma or institutionalized religion. Religion doesn't HAVE to be institutionalized. It's just basically what you believe.

Except for the part where Atheism is defined by what you don't believe.
M3rcenaries
20-04-2006, 02:15
Except for the part where Atheism is defined by what you don't believe.
Which is exactly why the OP was right to leave it off this thread. Last time one of these things around, some atheists were mad that it was included as an option.
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 02:15
You don't bash religion much?

*chokes on water laughing so hard*

She's choking! Check the airway for obstructions!
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 02:16
Which is exactly why the OP was right to leave it off this thread. Last time one of these things around, some atheists were mad that it was included as an option.

Hence my statment that some Atheists are being prissy.
Tweet Tweet
20-04-2006, 02:17
She's choking! Check the airway for obstructions!

Dina! Initiate CPR!
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 02:18
Dina! Initiate CPR!

I'd personally prefer rescue breathing ;) Look listen and feel for signs of breathing! Check for a pulse for no more than ten seconds!
Ladamesansmerci
20-04-2006, 02:19
CHRISTIANITY RULES! (literally)

No, the world is dominated by a Christian country, but not the religion.

Muslims got the Middle East and some Africa, but Christianity rules Europe and America (read: the guys in charge)
plus, we got a Pope:)

Again, Christianity does not own Europe and America. There are more atheists than Christians in both these areas. Besides, your seperation of region and religion is horrible. What if you're a muslim living in America? Does that mean you don't belong?

kinda feel sorry for Jews:( , everybody hates/has hated them:
Egyptians, Romans, Christians, Palestinians, Nazis, Neo-Nazis, anti-semites that didn't fit in these categories, and according to one version of the End Times, the Jews get it worst from the Anti-Christ

Not everybody hates/has hated them. Many people have no anti-semetic feelings whatsoever. And your list of races of people did not include a vast majority of the world. What about South America? Native Americans? Eastern Asians?

Buddhism and Confucianism = China:mp5: = Communists:mp5:

This part urks me the most, because Buddhism and Confucianism does not equal China. Buddhism started in India, and by the time it got to China, it already involved into almost a different religion altogether. And both these religions promote peace and harmony, which has nothing to do with the country it's most prominent in, besides the fact that Buddhism isn't even that prominent in China. Also, if you're anti-communism, sure, go ahead. But if you're anti-China just for the reason it's communist, then you need to get out more, or read up on it.
Ladamesansmerci
20-04-2006, 02:21
I'd personally prefer rescue breathing ;) Look listen and feel for signs of breathing! Check for a pulse for no more than ten seconds!

I was too busy doing serious debating to care about your frivolous chatterings. :p
Tweet Tweet
20-04-2006, 02:23
I was too busy doing serious debating to care about your frivolous chatterings. :p

You don't care about us any more!?

*walks off into corner to cry*
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 02:23
I was too busy doing serious debating to care about your frivolous chatterings. :p

Does that mean you're showing signs of circulation but not breathing? :fluffle:
Cybach
20-04-2006, 02:24
South America is pretty anti-semitic. I will dig up the article again. There was a New York banker with enviromentalist sympathies, he bought loads of lands with the goal of making it a reserve, because his reserve would have split Chile in half. Propaganda was spread from some Generals who feared the integrity of Chile, that he was a zionist Jew who wanted to make the lands he bought into a new Israel and Jewish homeland. The banker was not even Jewish, but just because the mobs believed him to be, he barely escaped Chile alive. If that is not anti-semitic I do not know what is, a mob wanting to lynch a banker because they believed him to be a zionist Jew,..............
Asbena
20-04-2006, 02:24
Lisa knows her religons. :o

I am other....somewhere between all of those....and none of those. I'll call it Asbenianism. XD
Ladamesansmerci
20-04-2006, 02:25
You don't care about us any more!?

*walks off into corner to cry*

:rolleyes:

You know I care about you, so stop being such a drama-queen. (sorry, in bad mood)
The Cat-Tribe
20-04-2006, 02:25
CHRISTIANITY RULES! (literally)

Muslims got the Middle East and some Africa, but Christianity rules Europe and America (read: the guys in charge)
plus, we got a Pope:)

kinda feel sorry for Jews:( , everybody hates/has hated them:
Egyptians, Romans, Christians, Palestinians, Nazis, Neo-Nazis, anti-semites that didn't fit in these categories, and according to one version of the End Times, the Jews get it worst from the Anti-Christ

Buddhism and Confucianism = China:mp5: = Communists:mp5:

Gee how did we end um with communism in good ol' Christian Russia?

Since when is the US a Christian nation? We are official neutral between religions and between religion and non-religion. It is called the wall of separation of Church and State.
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 02:25
Lisa knows her religons. :o

I am other....somewhere between all of those....and none of those. I'll call it Asbenianism. XD

You've got nothing on Aqualpaweaselism.
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 02:26
:rolleyes:

You know I care about you, so stop being such a drama-queen. (sorry, in bad mood)

Just her? :(
Tweet Tweet
20-04-2006, 02:26
Lisa knows her religons. :o

I am other....somewhere between all of those....and none of those. I'll call it Asbenianism. XD

A most worthy religion. Quite formidable in fact...
Ladamesansmerci
20-04-2006, 02:28
Just her? :(

Nope, you too. Even though you have bits of perversion in yours as well, which is absent from my dear Tweety.

and yes, my religion shall take over the world one day. :p
Layarteb
20-04-2006, 02:29
Gee how did we end um with communism in good ol' Christian Russia?

Since when is the US a Christian nation? We are official neutral between religions and between religion and non-religion. It is called the wall of separation of Church and State.

Actually you shouldn't include Orthodox in Christain. The whole US thing is basically because we're a heavy majority of Protestants and our "wonderful" ::: snicker ::: President likes to use some sort of Bible passage or some Holy line in every speech he gives. Urgh...
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 02:29
Nope, you too. Even though you have bits of perversion in yours as well, which is absent from my dear Tweety.

and yes, my religion shall take over the world one day. :p

1) Yay! :fluffle:

2) Tweet is absent of perversion?
Pretanian Wood Smoke
20-04-2006, 02:30
Less hippieish.

Aaahhh. Be vewwwy quiet... I'm hunting fluffy bunnies :sniper:
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 02:30
Actually you shouldn't include Orthodox in Christain. The whole US thing is basically because we're a heavy majority of Protestants and our "wonderful" ::: snicker ::: President likes to use some sort of Bible passage or some Holy line in every speech he gives. Urgh...

Eh, most of 'em are probably only nominal anyways.
Tweet Tweet
20-04-2006, 02:31
Nope, you too. Even though you have bits of perversion in yours as well, which is absent from my dear Tweety.

and yes, my religion shall take over the world one day. :p

Teehee. I'm not perverse....just...special :D
Layarteb
20-04-2006, 02:32
Eh, most of 'em are probably only nominal anyways.

I wish he would at least understand Separation of Church & State.
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 02:32
Teehee. I'm not perverse....just...special :D

Yay specialties!
Ladamesansmerci
20-04-2006, 02:34
1) Yay! :fluffle:

2) Tweet is absent of perversion?

no, just...better at hiding it. Besides, I like to believe she is. ;)
Ladamesansmerci
20-04-2006, 02:35
Teehee. I'm not perverse....just...special :D

Of course you are. *hands cookies*
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 02:35
no, just...better at hiding it. Besides, I like to believe she is. ;)

We all need our dreams...
Tweet Tweet
20-04-2006, 02:36
no, just...better at hiding it. Besides, I like to believe she is. ;)

Must keep that stereotype of being a pretty, delicate, flower in check...
Ladamesansmerci
20-04-2006, 02:38
Must keep that stereotype of being a pretty, delicate, flower in check...

grr...stupid stereotypes. You know that probably came from religion too, right? EVERYTHING's religion's fault!
Kasimov
20-04-2006, 02:38
Latter-Day Saint
United O-Zone
20-04-2006, 02:39
Who here read The Da Vinci Code?
United O-Zone
20-04-2006, 02:40
Latter-Day Saint

Really? I have a friend who's Mormon. No offense, but I find some of your beliefs bizarre.
Tweet Tweet
20-04-2006, 02:40
Who here read The Da Vinci Code?

You are spamming your own thread. Congrats.
United O-Zone
20-04-2006, 02:41
The Da Vinci Code and religion are intertwined so shut up!
Dinaverg
20-04-2006, 02:42
You are spamming your own thread. Congrats.

It might be tangental...ish...sorta...Yeah, probably.
United O-Zone
20-04-2006, 02:42
I can't believe my thread has become to popular! Religion'll get people to say anything:cool:
Tweet Tweet
20-04-2006, 02:43
I can't believe my thread has become to popular! Religion'll get people to say anything:cool:

It's not popular. Just a good place to spam. Like you, yourself are doing.
United O-Zone
20-04-2006, 02:43
It might be tangental...ish...sorta...Yeah, probably.

No, it's not, but I made the thread, so I decide who gets burned at the stake and who doesn't. I see this has been missionary-free so far. Maybe it's because they FEAR MY WRATH!
United O-Zone
20-04-2006, 02:44
It's not popular. Just a good place to spam. Like you, yourself are doing.

What is your malfunction?
Ricky D
20-04-2006, 02:44
I can't believe my thread has become to popular! Religion'll get people to say anything:cool:

Anything!
Tweet Tweet
20-04-2006, 02:45
What is your malfunction?

Intelligence.
United O-Zone
20-04-2006, 02:45
Anything!

Yes, anything. It'll also get people to believe anything.

How come everyone quotes these days? Do people really have that much to say?