Religious Philosophy ~ We Went West ~ Lesson 21

 

Lesson 21 ~ Religious Philosophy ~ Ecclesiasticism ~ We Went West ~ Essay

By:  Rev. Trent Murman, OSM, OSF

 

Critics, and some academics, have sometimes maintained that it is this focus on the internal self that has prevented societies where these religions are predominant that has resulted in their lack of material gain and progress. They accept the notion that it is this psychological focus that has removed any emphasis on scientific, educational, or economic advances. What are your thoughts? Do you think that emphasizing the "inner you" that that necessarily precludes social or scientific advances?  I believe if you or a society take things to an extreme then, being totally in touch with your "inner being" can be disastrous to your own wellbeing. Hence, if a society such as those talked about is focused on each individual's inner being I would think this would be too many whole entities and the society would not be working for the betterment of the entire group.  This may cause a total breakdown in the structural basis.  In conclusion:  the individual/society that remains focused on themselves should restructure its thinking to include everyone in the society as a whole, not a lot of individual wholes.

 

If, as we saw earlier in the course, that it is true that religions have tended to focus on one of Russell's 'three great problems' at the expense of the other two, which of these problems seems to you to be the "most important"? Ignoring for the moment the specific religions this indirectly indicates, do you believe the world would be better off if it adopted the views of the Western Ecclesiastical religions (i.e. the natural problem), the Eastern Ecclesiastical religions (i.e. the social problem), or the Southern Ecclesiastical religions (i.e. the psychological problem)? Why?  Interesting, it would be nice if the world could adopt all three sects, however if I were to choose just one, I believe the world may do better adopting the Eastern Ecclesiastical religions, because these seem to be best suited for putting and keeping society's peoples to work and in a forward moving direction.  However, all three "problems" do have their own merits and this should not be over looked either.  It would be interesting if the ancient leaders would have had the ability to spy, if you will, on other parts of the world like using the internet to see what trials and tribulations they were facing and vice versa.  This would also give the different parts of the world the ability to incorporate into their own society what was working for them.  Far fetched eh?  Maybe not, just think of the historical change that might have taken place. 

GO IN PEACE

Religious Philosophy Lesson 19 - Trent Murman

Lesson 19 ~ Religious Philosophy ~ Ecclesiasticism ~ Essay

By: Rev. Trent Murman, OSM, OSF

 

Cao Dai is the eclectic Vietnamese faith that has shamelessly "borrowed" from other faiths in an attempt to create a faith that is universally unifying. Do you think that selecting rituals from multiple faiths and then merging them together provides a stronger faith than those from which you borrow? Or, do you believe that this dilutes and diminishes the value of the original faith? I believe that this is an attempt to open their doors to many peoples to join the Vietnamese Cao Dai.  This may also bring religion to many Vietnamese that may not otherwise be able to participate in a religious services and in my opinion this does not dilute or diminish any part of the original faith, in fact it may bring it even stronger to those peoples that can recognize parts of their faith in a combined unifying faith.  The Ainu are so socially attuned that they greet strangers with Irankarapte, meaning "let me softly touch your heart". What do you think of this? Are they a sensitive, caring, socially tolerant people? Or, do you think that this is insincere and phony? If it is legitimate, why do you suppose that the dominant Japanese culture has treated them so poorly (the official government position is that they are "noble savages")? I believe they are truly sensitive peoples and are in good position to minister in a sincere way to reach all persons of this particular Japanese culture.  We must also divulge whether the Japanese culture separates government from religion.  Maybe this is why they feel they have no control or are losing control over the religious masses.  I believe the Japanese culture is a very strict one and may have very little tolerance for those that may have opposing views as have participated acts that have occurred in the past when people went against the government.  Just an opinion of mine. 

Go In Peace

Lesson 18 ~ Religious philosophy

Lesson 18 ~ Religious Spirituality ~ Definition ~ Essay

By: Rev. Trent Murman, OSM, OSF

 

If you belonged to a millenarian faith, how would that alter your behavior? If you have lived a life that makes it unlikely that you'll be one of the "chosen few to rule with Christ", would you spend your remaining days "living it up"? Would you repent, and spend your remaining days preaching and trying to lead others to make the "right decision"? Or, would you sit in the corner of your room all depressed, and fret over what was going to happen?  I certainly don't feel or prescribe to the thought of millenarian faith.  I feel we are all put here on this earth for a reason and none is actually labeled the "chosen few"  only Jesus should and can hold that title.  We have learned several things in the past regarding making the "right decisions"….I believe we as clergy should always be available to listen and help guide people to make decisions based on their own faith and what is right and proper to them, remembering there is no right decision that we are to impose on others but give them the right to make that decision for themselves.  If you belonged to an eschatological faith, how would that alter the way you live your life? Expecting the world (or age) to soon end, would it depress you, free you to do whatever you want, or make little difference to you? How would you expect the end to come? In a sudden global catastrophe? As an instantaneous "act of God"? Or, in a slow, gradual decline (i.e. will the world end with a cosmic whimper)? I feel the world will end some day, but will it be in an instantaneous "act of God"  I am not quite convinced this will be the case.  After all, we [the world] have been existing in this universe for millions of years so, at least in our short time of existence, I don't fear this particular act of demise.  This may be the way to go, if we were to go…quick and without time to plan or wonder.  I do feel if it was a gradual decline of our demise it would be almost complete chaos with everyone knowing and trying to put an end to the finality of the world. Finally, what is your view of apocalyptic faiths? Do you believe in prophecy? If you believe there were prophets in some distant past, why are there not any today? Or, are there? If there are, how can you tell a "real prophet of God" from an insane, deluded, mad man? In other words, how could you distinguish between a Moses and a Rasputin (remember, artists conceptions say they both had beards and even looked somewhat alike)?  I believe, as most others, there were prophets in biblical times because from when we were all children we were taught this.  There may very well be prophets in today's social structures.  However, there are also men of extraordinary ways to persuade the masses to bound with them, i.e. Hitler, Stalin, Khan, Christopher Columbus, the Pope's, Then we mention in Moses and Rasputin having beards which made them look somewhat alike….remember Jesus also had a beard.  I feel the authors/artists may have thought the beard symbolizes wisdom, maturity and knowledge.  Isn't it awesome that we all do have the ability and foresight to make our own decisions regarding whom and what we will follow and perceive as our "saviors". 

GO IN PEACE

Lesson 17 ~ Religious Philosophy ~ Globalization ~ Please Post

Religious Philosophy

Lesson 17  ~ Religious Philosophy ~ Globalization ~ Essay

By:  Rev. Trent Murman, OSM, OSF

 

Can you think of a Christian denomination that exemplifies the general Christian attitude about globalization? A denomination that is so convinced that they have the Truth the whole world needs that they will go to nearly any length to share it? I believe the Catholic church tends to fall into this category….after all they have millions of active followers and probably the same number of inactive followers.  I personally don't believe any religious sect is "wrong", but I do believe everyone is and should be allowed to participate and follow the group of their choices. Can you think of a Christian denomination that goes against the general Christian attitude about globalization? A denomination that is convinced that the Truth they believe they have is not necessarily the "way to go" for everyone?  I cannot pin point any one specific group that does this.  I feel if the opportunity that any one sect would cherish the thought of their religion going global and be the presiding religion, would definitely take that as a sign of approval from their god. Where would you classify Hasidic Judaism (the strict sect of Judaism that arose in Ukraine, and which is best known for their beards, long curled payoth, fedora hats, and black clothing.  Yes I believe this sect of Judaism does fall into that group and I feel they are very committed to their religious beliefs, ways of living and dress.

Go In Peace

Lesson 16~ Religious Philosophy ~ Religious functionality ~ Political Essay

Lesson 16 ~ Religious Philosophy ~ Religious Functionality ~ Political ~ Essay

Rev. Trent Murman, OSM, OSF

 

If your faith taught you that you were to "keep separate" from the secular world (assuming that it doesn't), what would you do if the government ordered you to participate at threat of jail time? What if the consequences included potential death (as it did for Jehovah's Witnesses in World War II Germany)?  This would totally be determined by your convictions.  If the threat of "jail time" was eminent then I would let your conscience be the guide.  Many great clergy men and women have done jail time in congruent with their personal beliefs.  In so far as the consequences leading to potential death…..I would sincerely hope this could be avoided especially during this day and age.  However, if this would materialize I think it would be a sad day in our history that something so barbaric could be the outcome.  If your faith taught you that it was your religious duty to "get involved" in the secular world (assuming that it doesn't) to ensure that the secular world conforms to the teachings of God (as they understand them), what would you do when a different religious group complained that their religious freedom was being denied as a result? Would you exempt them? Would you punish them for not acquiescing? Would you decide that any negative consequences for them were brought about by their refusal to comply with the Will of God?  Getting involved would have to be done like "walking on egg shells". Keeping true to your convictions and walking tall might be a tad too much for the average clergy man.  Being humble and sticking to the preachers creed remembering to keep separate church and state as much as possible.  I believe no religious sect should be silenced or held back from expressing their own values or beliefs.  It is such a wonderful thing that we all can express ourselves fully and be true to your own religious beliefs.  I believe there were no and should be no negative consequences to them for their refusal to comply with the "Will of God".  Peoples of this World need to be more tolerant of all.  Peace needs to be attained everywhere on our planet. 

GO IN PEACE

Religious Philosophy ~ Lesson 15

Lesson 15 ~ Religious Philosophy ~ Religious Functionality ~ Religious Nature ~ Essay

By:  Rev. Trent Murman OSM, OSF

What is your perspective on this "great problem"? How do you view your relationship with Reality? Are you entirely material, entirely spiritual, a mixture of the two, or a spiritual being trapped in a material prison?  I have always considered myself to be a down to earth person.  I like new things, but do not consider myself materialistic.  I believe I am a mixture of the two.  There are many things that are a necessity of life and unfortunately it appears that society/government dictates to each of us that certain things are mandatory to function in life, i.e. you must have a credit card/debit card to purchase airline tickets, plus a government issued ID to check-in.  This is just another way of "Big Brother ~ 1984" the government keeping tabs on everyone.  It is sad, but this is one piece of reality that unfortunately we cannot control.

How do you think that your view of your relationship with Reality impacts the way that you approach spirituality? Does it make you more submissive, studious, prayerful, resigned, contemplative?  I believe reality and spirituality are a growing part of everyday life and the ability to separate church and state is a must as discussed/promised in the Constitution.  However, we all end up being more submissive to the government rules and are resigned to abide by them.  Rules can be contemplated as much as one likes, however cannot be changed to suit the division of church and state.  It just doesn't seem to work that way.

Finally, how do you think that your view of your relationship with Reality impacts the way that you live your life? Does it make you more moral, immoral, ethical, unethical, logical, independent, determined? Does it impact your views on medicine, charity, politics, employment, vegetarianism, taking risks?  If one wishes to "buck the system" there is a healthy amount of risk taking involved.  This may be a good thing because it challenges you to think and evaluate more closely your moral standings leading to more independence if gone about it in a non-harassing way and that society can accept your actions.  Having been involved with medicine for a fair number of years I can see the premise the scientists present as their argument which we reviewed a few lessons back.  I can also accept that one's views may and do constantly impact their employment and I believe no one should push their moral standings to the wayside when seeking employment.  However, at times it may be required to bend them just a little to seek gainful employment.  You can always un-bend them back to your personal way of thinking later.  It has not waivered my charitable contributions, I still donate to the Wounded Warrior Project for helping our vets with their daily struggles and assist where I can.  And, I also donate to the charity of State Police Families of Fallen Officers in the line of duty.  I think these are worth while and it does give you that sense of doing a small part to help people out in their times of need….and after all isn't that what our profession is all about?     

Go In Peace

Religious Philosophy ~ The Great Problems of Life ~ Lesson 14

Lesson 14 ~ Religious Philosophy ~ The Great Problems of Life ~ Essay

By: Rev Trent Murman, OSM, OSF

 

What does your religious faith teach you about "others"? Are they to be respected, loved, and honored? Are they to be tolerated? Are they to be viewed as potential converts? Or, are they seen as an imminent threat to the faith?  We believe all persons are to be respected, loved and honored which comes toleration of all peoples.  We do not seek to convert people, however if they come to us of course our doors are always open and accepting.  We do not feel other religions are a threat to our faith.  We are all children of God and all accepting in His eyes. 

Take a sheet of paper and draw a line down the middle of it. At the top of the left side write "God's community", and at the top of the right column write "All life is One". Now, using the quotations given in this lesson, place each of these religions in the column you think best fits their theological and philosophical position: Islam, Christianity, Judaism, Shinto, Hinduism, Confucianism, Sikhism, Jainism, Baha'i, Tenrikyo, and Buddhism.

 

God's Community		All Life is One
Christianity		Confucianism
Jews		Buddhism
Islam		Sikhism
Judaism		Jainism
Baha'i		Hinduism
Shinto		Tenrikyo

  

Go In Peace

Lesson 13 ~ Religious Philosophy ~ Functionality & Nature

Religious Philosophy Studies

Lesson 13 ~ Religious Functionality ~ Religious Nature ~ Essay

Rev. Trent Murman, OSM, OSF

Which view best describes your personal relationship with nature — dominion, cooperation, or reverence? I personally feel we should respect nature the best ways we can after all He has given us this planet on a long term loan (if you will) hoping we will not purposefully destroy it through our foolishness.  Knowingly doing things to harm the planet he has loaned us would be gravely against His wishes.

How is this view played out in your everyday life? How does it (consciously or subconsciously) impact the way you live your life, earn a living, and function within society? Recycling mass produced products is a great way to help our planet out.  Whether it be at the office, at an eating place or anywhere there is abundance of waste materials.  Our scientists are constantly devising ways to improve waste disposals.

Does whatever religious faith you follow share this view of nature? In what ways do you agree or disagree with the religious functionality of your faith with regard to the natural world? The natural world consists of us allowing the powers at be function as they see fit.  This can relate to religious functionality as well.  It would be natural to let God carryout his ultimate plan for not only this world but they entire universe.  Maybe there is a reason He has made our living conditions here on Earth compatible to our survival.  Maybe there is a reason the other planets cannot support our life forms as we know it.  I do believe He wants us to have our own visions and seek out the knowledge to pursue other worlds.  Maybe it is natural for other beings to be inquisitive of our planet and technology.  Maybe in His eyes we are just as important to Him as they are to Him.  My faith believes and subscribes to the salvation of our natural resources and the thought that no one power here on Earth should be in control of any one natural resource.  Mother Nature (God if you will) has given us this beautiful planet on loan…we need to continue doing everything in our power to protect it and return it as we received it.

GO IN PEACE

Lesson 12 ~ Religious Philosophy ~ Rev. Murman

Lesson 12 ~ Religious Expression ~ Sacred Space Essay

By:  Rev. Trent Murman

Have you ever visited a spot considered to be a Place of Power? If so, how did it "feel"? Was this any different than anyplace else? There is a small church located near the city where I live, it was said to be a holy space because the priest and several of the congregational members claimed they had seen the statue of The Blessed Mary weeping.  This attracted many visitors and holy men to observe this phenomenon.  It was said to have no trickery involved and to be genuine.  I too took the opportunity to visit this holy space.  I can honestly say I felt no different vortex or spiritual enhancement that I normally get when I walk into any place of God.  I always have been so amazed at the "mystical" feelings I have when looking at the magnificence of it all.   The odds against this occurring are astronomical. Do you think this is coincidental, or is it the result of the actual existence of Places of Power? There is a great possibility in my mind that these lines could have occurred astronomically, after all it is said that beings from far away regions in space have visited our planet tens of thousands of years ago, perhaps preparing our places of power even way back then to coincide with these places of power, perhaps it was God himself aligning and preparing this earth for the future guidance of our biblical people to connect the places to each other.  I do not think this is coincidental because I believe everything from the time of creation of the Earth to present is all part of His greater plan for our part in the universe.  In closing I would like to put this out there – we cannot begin to think we are the only peoples or creatures in the massive universe, how small our minds would be to resign to this shallow thinking.  

Go In Peace 

Lesson 9 ~ Religious Philosophy

Religious Philosophy

Lesson 9 ~ Religious Expressions

By:  Rev. Trent

 

Consider your own religious path. What stories are told that serve to enlighten and educate? In other words, what stories are mythical? How about the mythical Santa Clause living at the North Pole.  This is a fable expounded upon here in the United States.  However in Europe there actually was a St. Nicholas that did go around with presents for children.  We here in the states presented this as a myth.  The Easter Bunny….St. Valentine's Day….are other mythical stories.   

Are any of these myths thought to be actual historical events? Is that important? Would it matter if it was proven that they didn't really happen? No I don't think it would really matter if they were proven not to have happened because these myths or stories are usually meant for the younger kids in the community.  Yes, I do believe these stories are beneficial because sometimes these myths can also be a learning tool and mostly they are very mild unlike "Urban Legends".     

Can you think of a non-religious myth? Perhaps political, or economic, or ethnic. What is the telling of this myth trying to convey?   The myth I would like to convey is from the Urban Legends….Stranger In The House….Where the baby sitter is in the house late at night alone and she receives multiple calls on the phone.  When she answers it there is no one on the phone.  She starts to get frazzled….she calls 911…they trace the call from inside the house….they tell her to get out of the house…she tries to get to the baby sleeping upstairs, she ends up scared out of her mind.  This can be classified as truth or fake….myths are not only there to help us understand but to scare us into conjuring up illusions within our minds. 

 Go In Peace

Lesson 10 ~ Religious Philosophies

Masters of Religious Philosophy

Lesson 10 ~ Religious Expressions Essay

Rev. Trent Murman

 

Are you what you thought you were?  After reviewing the quiz results, according to the doctrines I am exactly what I thought I was and I feel for me this is the best way for me to carry out my ministering.  I have found that being liberal and open to all suggestions, experiences and tolerance to all persons has allowed me to gain valuable knowledge every time I have the privilege to counsel or speak with someone.  I feel this is very important that everyone have the freedom to express themselves without being judged.  Remembering we are all God's children and only He can judge. 

Go In Peace

Lesson 5 ~ Religious Spirituality ~ The Last Option ~ Please Post

Religious Philosophy

Lesson 5 ~ The Last Option

By:  Rev. Trent Murman

 

Is it possible to have such a strong and lasting effect on a child that they are virtually certain to retain religious beliefs throughout their entire life?

I feel it is possible to have this lasting effect on a child as he/she grows into adulthood, however it is very unlikely that they would retain these religious beliefs throughout their entire life.  In my opinion, nothing is forever. 

Your thoughts on Dr. Dean Hamer's research regarding serotonin receptors in the brains of religious people? Do you think that this is simply anti-religious science, evidence for understanding the religious tendencies of people, or evidence of the means by which 'God makes us religious'?

If Dr. Hamer is to be considered correct then the pre-disposition of this gene would, in my thought be inherited which would mean the religious persons father, mother, grandparents would have to be also in the ministry system.  However, I do feel Dr. Hamer could be correct in his theory that there is a pre-disposed gene that one may later in life "get the calling" and develop into a religious person. 

Is the concentration of serotonin receptors a factor in how spiritual we are?

Since serotonin is naturally occurring in the brain and would differ between one subject and the other it is not reasonable that serotonin could be associated with how much or less spiritual we would turn out to be. 

Do twin studies confirm the very existence of a genetic link?

The twin studies definitely do confirm the genetic link, both in identical and fraternal twins.  However it has been proven the genetic link is considerably stronger in the identical twins.

Are we conditioned to religiosity as a result of our early years of parental control?

As stated parenteral control conditioned them into their own religiosity  however, it was not successful in conditioning religiosity within the group encompassing their children.

Are we religious because God wants us that way?

I do not believe that God "wants" us that way.  I believe God does presents the opportunity for us to be religious, but to push us in that direction would be a grave mistake.  We are all human beings and we do have the ability to make those decisions, right or wrong, on our own.  This particular lesson presented many thought provoking theories and certainly does make one search his inner thoughts and possible listen more intently to that little voice deep inside themselves. 

 

Go In Peace

 

Lesson 6 ~ Religious Philosophy ~ Religious Forms

Religious Philosophy

Lesson 6 ~ Religious Forms

By:  Rev. Trent Murman

 

What religious organizational form does Wicca use?  Which is it? Perhaps a better question is, since it exhibits all of these traits, 'which of these approaches does it primarily follow?

This course gets more interesting by the week.  Even though this lesson has a lot of information to digest it certainly does open one's eyes to different cultures, sub-cultures, beliefs and cults.

 

Wicca appears to be a distinct worldview with an identifiable set of beliefs, ritual systems, and an organizational structure, albeit a loose one and certain forms of witchcraft may be practiced. Many Wiccans practice as solitaries, not in identifiable groups or "covens." 

 

A popular misconception of Wiccan religion is that it involves the worship of Satan. This is false. Wiccan religion was blamed for it. 

 

Many who practice Wiccan religion will identify themselves as witches and say that they practice witchcraft; however, Wicca and witchcraft are not synonymous.

 

I believe the structure appears to be Shamanistic faith in that it does have a centralized person which the members of the group feel has "special" powers to contact the dead and encompasses the three main ideals below:

 

neopaganism- this includes all faith groups based on attempted reconstructions of ancient or extinct religions, such as the Greek, Roman, Egyptian, Sumerian and others.

paganism - has both positive and negative meanings. This term is negative in the sense that it is used to mean "anti-Christian" and some will claim it simply to spite Christianity, the term has a positive meaning similar to or synonym with neopaganism.

witchcraft or craft - generally refers to the practical arts of casting spells, herbalism, performing magic ceremonies, and the like. This may or may not be located inside any specific or organized religious association.

 

I will have to submit to you much of this information was gotten from the internet since I needed support and current information that I did not have a view point myself.  This has certainly given me more insight as to the Wiccan religion or practices and that they are not all satanic worshipers and "bad" people that most of us previously believed. 

Go In Peace

Organized Religions by Trent Murman

Religious Philosophy

Lesson 4 ~ Organized Religions

By:  Trent Murman

 

If those zoo keepers are right in thinking that gorillas "get something" out of a wake when one dies, what does that say about religion? Does it diminish faith and make it "just biological" if we were to discover that the great apes do it also? What do you think: are these gorillas expressing some type of proto-faith, or are the zoo keepers 'anthropomorphizing' (assigning human attributes to animal behavior) the gorilla behavior? 

I do not believe it diminishes faith.  I believe in the animal world even the most primitive or simplistic species mourns over the loss of a member of their own "nest or higher family or group structure".  You can certainly tell by the look in a gorillas eyes that he or she is hurting when a member of the group dies we call this empathy….it doesn't have to be about religion.  I believe in the religious aspect the wake is used to help along with the grieving process ultimately ending in closure for the people who lost their loved one.

 

 If Karl Marx was correct, and religion is only useful in maintaining the political and economic status quo, does it really matter whether that religion believes in Heaven and Hell or whether it accepts reincarnation? How could religion work as this "opium of the people" in each type of society?

I believe religion acts as an opium for the masses because usually it does play an important part in "calming" the masses.  Not too often have I ever heard of fighting going on during a mass or church service.  It is up to the people to make up their own minds regarding Heaven or Hell.  As you are aware there are some that believe death if final and there is nothing after the body ceases to function it is just a baron vessel, lifeless.  Reincarnation is a huge part of some religions and I feel it is necessary to have different beliefs and we need the right to form our own opinions and to choose what we want to believe. 

 

Finally, what if Sir Frazer and Sir Tylor were correct (being American, it does sound strange to refer to people as "Sir" and mean knighthood)? They considered religion to be the end result of enough people accepting the "answers" offered by some savage philosopher – someone who had thought about the 'great questions of life' and had come to some conclusions. Can you think of anyone from the 20th century who might be thought of in this way? You don't need to agree with them; but, they would need to be someone who had pondered these questions, come to conclusions, and then had others follow their teachings – eventually organizing into a structured religion. Anyone come to mind? If not, how about the 19th century (1800s)?

Jim Jones could certainly fit into this category…I believe he attempted to create his own society, religion and following.  However, some would call this brain washing of the masses.  They were definitely influenced by his power or persuasion even going as far as referring to himself as the savior…..this following did end up in mass suicide.  The power of one person over a group is definitely wrong and the bible does caution us against false gods and prophets.  He built a temple and with his actions shocked the world. 

 

 

Religious Philosophy Lesson 3 - Rev. Murman

 

Religious Philosophy

Lesson 3 ~ Organized Religions and Cults

By:  Trent Murman

 

How do they match up with the 'five criteria'?

(a) There is no powerful, charismatic leader or leaders for their communities, although there is a strong leadership in each local congregation;

(b) there is a rigid discipline that essentially enforces a high level of group think in the community;

(c) friends and relatives are included only if they are a part of the community, with those that leave (apostates) being shunned;

(d) financial abuse takes the form of financial limitations that result from members living to the strictures of the Ordnung (often called the 'Amish Charter'); and,

(e) they are carefully segregated from the surrounding society.

 

The US Marine Corps! Is it a cult? Consider each of the 5 questions posed above, and see how many of them you think the Corps meets.

Does that make it a cult? Probably a cult?  Maybe a cult?  Probably not?  No way?

I was stationed with the USMC for a total of four years during my service in the USN.  I have the utmost of respect for these men and women in the Corps.  In my judgment the only 1 of the 5 criteria that may "fit" the USMC is number 5…they are carefully segregated from the surrounding society….this is a must with their training and "esprit des corps"  these men and women have definitely bonded from boot camp thru their military careers.  However, they are not segregated from their families only during their duty hours and training missions.  There is NO WAY this could be considered a cult in my judgment.

 

How about the Parent-Teacher group at your local school? How many of the 5 questions do they meet? How would you classify them?

The Parent-Teacher group may fall into numbers 1, 2, 3 and 5.  Most PTA's do have a structured and charismatic leadership within the organization and is needed for fund raisers, persuading    parents to their way of thinking concerning their child's good or bad accomplishments in school.  As long as every child is encouraged in the same manner and to the same standards.  They do have a high degree of influence in the way teachers think and in turn they influence the way the parents think regarding their child's accomplishments within the school system.  The relatives are included in the group if they choose to be, there is no segregation in that manner.  However, those children and parents that leave the particular school system are not shunned as might be in a true "cult" society.  I feel this may be considered a cult in some respects.  It does meet some of the criteria, marginally more than half of the 5 points to the criteria.

Lesson 16 - Master of Spirituality class

I very much enjoyed your lesson Nietzsche.  I was fortunate to go through my "mid-life crisis" some time in my 30's.  At that time, I decided that everything I'd ever been taught about God and man was just silly and I stopped believing.  It was a struggle, but I was determined to turn my back on everything and everyone who'd influenced my religious and philosophical views of life, so I wrestled with it until one day, I could firmly, confidently say that there was, indeed, no God and that I had no spiritual nature of any kind. 

 

On that fateful day, at that astounding moment (which I remember vividly), it was like someone pushed me into a soundproof box and shut the door.  There was no inner diaglog to guide me, no intuition that I depended upon to get me safely through my day.  There was the loudest silence I'd ever heard and it was unlike anything I could've imagined.  Even if I'd been shut into such a room, I would still have heard my heartbeat or my breath rushing in my ears.  There was nothing.  I thought for a moment that I'd gone suddenly deaf until someone nearby spoke and I heard them distinctly; probably, more distinctly than I would have a moment before my declaration as there was no background noise of my thoughts. 

 

I stayed like this for a few days, maybe a week or two, I don't really remember.  I just recall that it felt like I was having to remember things that should be famliar; simple, daily task types of things that I did by rout with the direction of my intuition and subconscious thoughts.  I had to make a very conscious effort to brush my teeth, pour my coffee, eat my breakfast, drive my car.  I was on a kind of autopilot only in that I was aware that I knew how to do these things and was doing them as normally as possible.  Imagine that you've always had a director quietly telling you every move and then all of a sudden, they were gone.  You know what to do, but you're so accustomed to following instead of leading, it truly throws you. 

 

Then, one day, as I sat in the silence of my no-thoughts, it struck me that I'd been given a very great gift.  It was the gift of knowing, of gnosis, of understanding what those who have no faith in anything beyond themselves experience every day.  I can understand why Nietzsche went mad, or as a boyfriend once called, "Full Tilt Bozo Crazy," because if I had not come to my senses, it would not have been long before I would hear the clang of the bells and the buzzer would sound.  Very slowly, very gradually, my thoughts started to be heard again and my intuition returned stronger than ever.  It was like stepping out into the beautiful world of sights and sounds after a long illness, and I enjoyed every moment of it.

 

I have since run across people who said they believe that death is the end of their existence.  I think of my own experience into my mini-Nietzscheworld and I wonder how long they will believe it, and if for long, how will their mind stay intact.  I also don't stick around to find out.  Dem peoples crazy!

 

You're right when you say that poor ol' Nietzsche didn't take into account the inherent evil nature of humans, but he also missed the inherent good in us as well.  We cannot deny our spiritual nature, which embodies those loving qualities that we simply must exhibit in order to have balance in our lives.  It's true, too, that what we put out into the world comes back to us and if you are putting nothing out at all, as apparently Nietzsche did not, then it won't be long before you are living in an emotional vacuum.  That is a very dark, lonely path to walk. 

 

Thank you for the intriguing lessons and for this class.  I've always been interested in philosophy, but have never had the patience to study it indepth.  Your lessons give just the right amount of information to explain these great thinkers' ideas well.  I truly appreciate it!

 

Best to you -

Penny

 

 

"Silence in the face of evil is itself evil:
God will not hold us guiltless
Not to speak is to speak.
Not to act is to act." ~ Dietrich Bonhoeffer