Is religion and faith cynical? [Spirituality & Religion]

Religion uses rhetoric to trick believers into feeling secure where none is needed. The same outcome can be achieved through philosophy without rhetoric and with respect for the individual's own minds.

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EllaDisenchanted · F

It helps to make a distinction between religion and belief, as well. Religion is man made, usually following tradition over actual doctrine. Belief is simply belief. I've seen people believe the Bible out of faith as well as seen people believe in the Bible but heap rituals and nonBiblical dogma a top it.

sogdianrock · 61-69, M

hi EllaDisenchanted
Sure but regarding faith this requires a surrendering of self and so is this act not a cynical abandonment of our individual responsibility for our own happiness and inner state of mind?
best wishes
:)

EllaDisenchanted · F

@sogdianrock Depends on the faith, I'd think. Biblical wise a believer whom truly believes and knows the Gospel is held to account for all they do. Yes, we're forgiven the consequences of our sin in the eternal sense BUT we still have to live with the day to day consequences of our actions.

For example, we can not say "oh, satan made me do it" like some like to think as we know how satan operates (the roaring lion), we know the hallmarks of leaning towards evil and away from God (backsliding and consequences of actions) and we know how to escape that snare. If we pretend we don't then we not only are lying but directly sinning in the face of God.

But if we look towards Jesus when He tells us to have mercy on others then we shall have the joy of giving that mercy. That we are freely given the gift of salvation despite our own ability to secure it ourselves, especially knowing human nature, brings great happiness. God gives us plenty of ways to happiness and peace if we just take a few moments to appreciate life and the blessings given and appreciate those around us.

But you do also find other people whom, through individual philosophy or religious dogma, have built a wall around them to escape accountability. I've a friend whom is catholic which never seems truly happy with himself or others but he's very devoted to mass and ritual and lighting candles and praying the rosary and all those trappings. I've another whom is hindu and her way of dealing with things is "well nothing I do really matters because karma will do what it will". If something good happens then it's due to her because the universe willed it. If something bad happens it's because past karma. So she doesn't really consider her actions because 'it doesn't matter' attitude.

sogdianrock · 61-69, M

hi EllaDisenchanted
Interesting.
I meant religions provide a social framework to tell us what is right and wrong and to provide security through answers - which are comforting stories. My point is we can do this for ourselves through reason and so to adopt a religion is an abandonment of our responsibility to manage our own mind.
Best wishes
:)