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?

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samueltyler2 · 80-89, M

It all depends upon what you are asking about, what you think people need to believe. I believe in a history, a set of ethical rules and flexibility in how to accept them. I do not believe in a humanoid figure, certainly not a bearded old white man on a throne. I do believe some ultimate power started all that we know of life, not a humanoid figure though.

Akimbo75 · 46-50, F

@samueltyler2 I don’t know what I think people need to believe! It’s up to them… I totally agree with you on the humanoid figure bit. But if people need a humanoid, it’s fine with me.

samueltyler2 · 80-89, M

@Akimbo75 as long as no one demands my belief, but have no problem with them believing my an thing they want. But, the history of the world is replete with wars over which God is superior, which set of rituals must be performed. What is it about the Jews that has garnered such blood hate over thousands of years?

Akimbo75 · 46-50, F

@samueltyler2 Exactly, why do people have to push their beliefs on others as if it’s the only way? You and I seem to be in the minority opinion of live and let live.
Why so much hatred for Jews? Thats a whole other topic that I think would be super interesting to explore.