Queries On the Influence of Religion as Manipulation (By Mr. M. Svartgold)
Updated: Apr 15
(Disclaimer: The guest posts do not necessarily align with Philosocom's manager, Mr. Tomasio Rubinshtein's beliefs, thoughts, or feelings. The point of guest posts is to allow a wide range of narratives from a wide range of people. To apply for a guest post of your own, please send your request to mrtomasio@philosocom.com)
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I have many questions about religion that I have not been able to answer. Nevertheless, I'll try not only asking but giving my thoughts on some of them, as well. Please enjoy.
How does God appear to people in this new age? Does God's nature change over time? Why did God allow Job to suffer? Does God help everyone equally? Is it common for believers to marry at a young age? Why does God seem to have different standards for adultery for men and women? What was Adam and Eve's purpose in the Garden of Eden? Why did God punish Adam and Eve? Is God's mercy truly unconditional?
Why do religious communities often ostracize those who leave the religion? Is the expectation of virginity still relevant in today's society? Why do many religions require that spouses be of the same faith? Is luck a manifestation of God's will? What is the role of religious leaders? Why do religions continue to evolve? What is the significance of religious holidays? Why is it important to celebrate religious holidays?
How do religious and secular values interact? How do secular people understand religious holidays? What are the challenges of interfaith marriage? What are the causes of religious conflict? What is the role of peace in religion?
The Role of Religion in Manipulation
Religion can be used as a tool for manipulation in many ways. For example, it can be used to justify violence, control people's behavior, and justify discrimination. It can also be used to exploit people financially.
One way that religion can be used to manipulate people is by appealing to their emotions. For example, religious leaders may use fear, guilt, or love to control their followers. They may also use promises of eternal reward or punishment to manipulate people's behavior. Such an example being the concept of an afterlife, whether true or not.
Another way that religion can be used to manipulate people is by controlling the information that they have access to. For example, religious leaders may discourage their followers from questioning religious teachings or reading non-religious sources of information. That can be regarded as an expression of fantaicism. This can make it difficult for people to think critically about their beliefs and make informed decisions. That's especially true when one is decieved by ulterior motives.
Religion can also be used to exploit people financially. For example, religious leaders may ask their followers to donate money to the church or other religious organizations. They may also sell religious items, such as books, CDs, or clothing. In some cases, religious leaders may use their influence to pressure people into making financial contributions that they cannot afford. And of course, there is no "shortage" of scams in our world.
The manipulation of religion is a serious problem that can have harmful consequences. It is important to be aware of the ways that religion can be used to manipulate people so that we can protect ourselves from being exploited.
The role of religious leaders
Religious leaders play an important role in society. They provide guidance and support to their followers, and they help to preserve and transmit religious traditions. They also often serve as moral leaders, and they can use their influence to promote social justice and peace. However, they can also abuse their power, under the guise of sacred-ness and benevolence.
The significance of religious holidays
Religious holidays are important because they provide opportunities for people to come together and celebrate their faith. They can also be a time for reflection and introspection, and they can help to strengthen people's connection to their community.
The challenges of interfaith marriage
Interfaith marriage can be challenging, but it can also be rewarding. Couples who marry across religious lines need to be willing to compromise and respect each other's beliefs. They also need to be prepared to deal with the challenges that may arise from different cultural expectations.
The causes of religious conflict
Religious conflict can be caused by a variety of factors, including differences in religious beliefs, political disagreements, and economic disparities. It can also be exacerbated by the actions of religious leaders who promote intolerance and violence.
The role of peace in religion
Peace is an important value in many religions. Religious teachings often emphasize the importance of love, compassion, and forgiveness. These values can be a powerful force for promoting peace in the world.
The Torah and the Bible
In the Torah, we see Abraham sacrificing his only son, Isaac. Why did God ask Abraham to do this? What is the definition of "good" in the sense of God? Is it a divine miracle? There were many, many people who were sacrificed by God and did not get on the ark. Why is it so important to rest without doing anything at all? These are of course questions regarding these specific texts.
The paradox of self-defense
On the one hand, they say not to murder in many sects of major religions. On the other hand, to defend myself who rises up to kill you, should you kill him...? Who said they wanted to kill me? In which situations self-defense is mandatory and in which it is.
The importance of children
It is in every religion said. Children are a joy. But children are also an economic expense. And if there is no financial help with the children, what is expected?
Conclusion
These are just some of the many questions that I have about religion. I believe that it is important to question our beliefs, and to think critically about the role of religion in our lives. I hope that this article has sparked some thought and discussion about these important issues. Thank you for reading and for Mr. Tomasio Rubinshtein for ordering this article.
