Question to religious people: why do you believe?

I grew up in an orthodox jewish family in Toronto. We strictly followed all the laws of judaism such as pray daily, keep kosher and observe sabbath. When I was growing up, we were maybe a 7 on a scale of 1-10, 10 being fanatic. The minutia of rules lived in every moment of every day. There were specific blessings to say when you ate, slept, went to the bathroom. Rules about what women may not do, say, be. Rules for men too, but much less limited.

For me, it was too much. I defected from that world 20 years ago. (It was hard.) My parents and siblings have only become more fanatical as the years go by, they’re all at a 9 by now. We do speak to each other and get along OK.

But I have trouble understanding how they or anyone can truly be happy in that life.

So I ask, why do YOU believe?

This page is a permanent link to the reply below and its nested replies. See all post replies »

exexec · 70-79, C

I was raised in a progressive Christian home, taught to think for myself. Using my denomination's standards for belief (scripture, tradition, experience, and reason), I am still a person of faith but a bit of a heretic, rejecting a lot of traditional Christian teachings. I try to follow the teachings of Jesus I am appalled at the beliefs and actions of a lot of professing Christians today.

LadyGrace ·

@exexec

rejecting a lot of traditional Christian teachings. I try to follow the teachings of Jesus

But the teachings of Jesus ARE Christian. Christian means follower of Christ.

exexec · 70-79, C

@LadyGrace I am definitely a Christian, just a bit heretical according to some.

LadyGrace ·

@exexec They shouldn't judge you. As long as God is happy with you, that's all that matters. Haha

exexec · 70-79, C

@LadyGrace Agreed.

Akimbo75 · 46-50, F

@exexec I love a nice streak of heresy once in a while 😁
especially with all the hypocrisy we see every day.