Rant: Subtle insults by text

[Evinmeer]

I hate it when pagans will write "Xian(ity)" instead of "Christianity" but in the same paragraph spell out the full title of their own faith. I'm singling out pagans b/c they're the only people I've ever gotten attitude from regarding faith superiority (their own, of course). I hate it even more when the post is supposedly praising the validation of all faiths. It's such a small thing, I'm sure many people would say it shouldn't bother me - but how would they like it if I did it to them? Shortening "Buddhism" to "Buddi" or "Shamanism" to "Sham"; "Wicca" to "W" or "Kemetic" to "Kem".... all the time spelling out "Christianity" in full while expounding on the virtues of tolerance and acceptance, equality and the beauty of individual interpretation for all faiths.... I guarantee you someone is going to raise a fuss.

So this is my fuss. Nyah. :rant:

[Merrilyn]

Check out this article on Wikipedia. Might give you a little insight. The X abbreviation has been in use for over 1,000 years. Scroll down to "Usage of X for Christ"

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xmas

[Rasari]

You have my full agreement.
Especially when they are going on about how their faith is open minded and tolerant of all others and then ripping into Christians or Christianity for what ever reason. Or calling their God fake, or saying it doesn't exist. Or insulting the Christian myths as ridiculous when most Pagan myths are just as out there (I know those of my path can be)...

But false compassion, blind tolerance, ignorance of a deeper strand and hypocrisy tends to be rather trendy these days...

[Rasari]

Check out this article on Wikipedia. Might give you a little insight. The X abbreviation has been in use for over 1,000 years. Scroll down to "Usage of X for Christ"

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xmas

I think its the context its used in that is irritating. As most today tend to do it:

To remove Christ. A slant.
Or to be lazy and type four or five letters instead of nine.

[Merrilyn]

I think its the context its used in that is irritating. As most today tend to do it:

To remove Christ. A slant.
Or to be lazy and type four or five letters instead of nine.

Most of who? Who wants to remove Christ from what? From Christmas? It's his holiday; those who believe in him can do what they will, those who don't..won't. I really don't think Christ would be slighted in the least. He knows who his followers are and what intent is meant by abbreviation, I'm sure.

[Bettie]

If some christians would merely limit themselves to abbreviating the name of my path I'd be happy. As it happens, I've seen christians call pagans of all types some awful things. Merely abbreviating a word seems minimal in comparison.

[Merrilyn]

If some christians would merely limit themselves to abbreviating the name of my path I'd be happy. As it happens, I've seen christians call pagans of all types some awful things. Merely abbreviating a word seems minimal in comparison.

Troof.

[Rasari]

Most of who? Who wants to remove Christ from what? From Christmas? It's his holiday; those who believe in him can do what they will, those who don't..won't. I really don't think Christ would be slighted in the least. He knows who his followers are and what intent is meant by abbreviation, I'm sure.

The majority of those I've spoken on the issue with. Those are the two reasons usually given to me.

Either because they don't like Christianity or don't believe in Christ. And thus don't type the name.

Or because they don't want to type the full word. (Granted... Most who give this answer rarely type out "you" or "are" either...)

Yes, and thats all well and good. However, that does not change that the above two reasons in specific contexts, which are not uncommon, are rude and / or lazy. RARELY, are these individuals using, or even aware, of any historical foundation and meaning behind using "X"-mas.

As for Christians typing horrible things about Pagans.
More often than not, I've seen the exact opposite. Two way street.

[Phoenix Blue]

Is it actually clear one way or another what these posters' intentions are? I don't have any compunctions against the word either way, but then, I'm not Christian, and I despise netspeak.

But as Rasari pointed out, we have people who can't be bothered to spell "you are." Is getting offended about "Xtianity" versus "Christianity" really worth the effort? Is it even intended as an insult in the first place?

[Rasari]

Is it actually clear one way or another what these posters' intentions are? I don't have any compunctions against the word either way, but then, I'm not Christian, and I despise netspeak.

But as Rasari pointed out, we have people who can't be bothered to spell "you are." Is getting offended about "Xtianity" versus "Christianity" really worth the effort? Is it even intended as an insult in the first place?

Usually, reading the post (or article) in full context can display intent as to wether they're using a historical foundation, a demeaning intent or laziness.

Example...

If the post is specifically talking about Christianity in a negative light... Or praising one's religion against real or perceived faults in Christianity... Then its likely demeaning. (Ex: "Wicca is what ever you want it to be. Wiccans are open minded and tolerant of other faiths, unlike Xtian or in Xtianity!" The post itself is hypocritical and demeaning... The usage isn't likely to be well intended either.)

If one's post isn't doing the above and riddled with net-speak, its just laziness.

If one is talking objectively about Christianity, is a Christian perhaps, or is discussing historical aspects, religious theory or such with out bias, one could assume they were aware of and using the historical foundation in their usage of "X-tian/Xmas" and such...

[Bettie]

But why does simply abbreviating a word indicate an insult? It's not considered an insult to shorten other things, especially when typing. I don't feel insulted if some calls me an Aussie, instead of typing out 'Australian', nor do I mind if people shorten my real name. I don't understand why some typing "Xian" or whatever could be construed as an insult, that's all.

[Heart of All]

I personally have a theory that there are two Christianities. Granted, I never abbreviate, but reading this thread has given me an idea about differentiation of the two Christianities because my boyfriend, who is Christian, is constantly getting his feelings hurt when I'm talking about how I despise Christians.

Because the thing is, I think Christianity is great. But Xianity (see above, this is the first time I've ever typed than and am using it for differentiation purposes) is that closed-minded, fire and brimstone evangelical Christianity that goes around trying to force itself on everyone. And that I hate. But the actual religion of Christianity, as well as most Christians I have ever actually met, are great.

Anyway, after all that rambling, the point is, that I think if someone is meaning to be derisive by shortening it to Xianity to remove the Christ from it, it's because they are talking about that hateful group who has lost the true teachings of Christ anyway, and not the real religion. If they aren't meaning to be derisive, I think it's just an abbreviation.

[Artiste-LiLi]

Not ALL Pagans act the way you portray. I am Pagan and I am quite respectful to Christians and to the belief system known as Christianity. Whether or not Christ was a true living person....I don't know....and it is not for me to say; I wasn't there, I don't know. I have upon occasion had rather heated exchanges with Christians...but I do not "name call"; in actuality, I am usually the one on the receiving end of the name calling...and it always comes from one of the Christian faithful. I have seen Pagans name call as well. It is indeed a two-way street; but, what a nicer street it would be if EVERYONE stopped the name calling and made the street one of informative give and take.

What I really hate........is when one person paints every single person of a specific nature/path/belief system with one big old broad paint brush. Not every Christian is a closed minded bigoted holier than thou idiot and not every Pagan is an arrogant bible bashing Christian bashing hypocrite.

[Philosophia]

But why does simply abbreviating a word indicate an insult? It's not considered an insult to shorten other things, especially when typing. I don't feel insulted if some calls me an Aussie, instead of typing out 'Australian', nor do I mind if people shorten my real name. I don't understand why some typing "Xian" or whatever could be construed as an insult, that's all.

QFT

I usually type out the full name "Christianity" only because I'm one of those grammar nazis that don't really like abbreviations (though I do write Xmas sometimes). But I don't see Xtianity as an insult or anything like that. Words only have power if we give it to them.

[Rasari]

But why does simply abbreviating a word indicate an insult? It's not considered an insult to shorten other things, especially when typing. I don't feel insulted if some calls me an Aussie, instead of typing out 'Australian', nor do I mind if people shorten my real name. I don't understand why some typing "Xian" or whatever could be construed as an insult, that's all.

Yet again. It depends on usage and context. Not the abbreviation alone.

[Rasari]

Not ALL Pagans act the way you portray.

I never said they all did either. I've stated its not uncommon. I've given an over view of my experiences regarding responses as to "why". And I made it quite clear that it depended on context.

[Bettie]

Yet again. It depends on usage and context. Not the abbreviation alone.

Ah, I see. So we're discussing whether a word may or may not be considered an insult, taking into account context, usage and possibly the personal laziness level of the person typing said word, is that right?

A lot of qualifiers there, don't you think? ;)

[Philosophia]

Any word can be considered an insult. It usually depends upon the context, implication, and how it is read. On the internet, though, it is hard to determine the context, even within a lengthy post. What one person may interpret a message as, another may get a totally different perspective. "Xtianity" is the same. An insult to one person may not be to another.

[Rasari]

Ah, I see. So we're discussing whether a word may or may not be considered an insult, taking into account context, usage and possibly the personal laziness level of the person typing said word, is that right?

A lot of qualifiers there, don't you think? ;)

Well, that is how communication works. The context a word is used in changes its usage and intent.

The word "Bitch" for example. Is only an insult based on context.

If speaking about dogs. Its simply a female animal.

If jokingly said to a close friend, its intended as a term of endearment, not an insult.

If said to someone in a heated argument or in the context of a post demeaning in full intent, then its intended as an insult.

So no, not many qualifiers. Just simple comprehension of how communication works.

[Rasari]

Any word can be considered an insult. It usually depends upon the context, implication, and how it is read. On the internet, though, it is hard to determine the context, even within a lengthy post. What one person may interpret a message as, another may get a totally different perspective. "Xtianity" is the same. An insult to one person may not be to another.

True, though some posts are very clear in their intent. What the post is saying, not just how it is said, can speak volumes alone as to usage. Just as a book can at times clearly portray the feelings and sentiments of it's author.

[Artiste-LiLi]

I never said they all did either. I've stated its not uncommon. I've given an over view of my experiences regarding responses as to "why". And I made it quite clear that it depended on context.

I don't believe I quoted you in any way.......I don't believe I responded to you personally in any way.

I did, however, respond to the original post in which it was said by Evinmeer:

"I hate it when pagans will write "Xian(ity)" instead of "Christianity" but in the same paragraph spell out the full title of their own faith. I'm singling out pagans b/c they're the only people I've ever gotten attitude from regarding faith superiority (their own, of course)."

To this post, the original post, I made my reply. My response was to put forth that Evinmeer's assertation is true within a limited sphere of experience.....not every single Pagan acts this way or does the things she has issue with. I put forth that I do not do as she states.

Now, to carry on with that specific quote by Evinmeer: "I'm singling out pagans b/c they're the only people I've ever gotten attitude from regarding faith superiority (their own, of course)." I have seen Pagans do this and I have seen far too many Christians do this...I have been called horrible nasty things/names by Christians all while they are espousing the superiority of the Christian faith. I make no judgements regarding who's faith is better than anyone else's faith and I give no "attitude" saying that "MY" faith is superior to anyone else's faith.................therefore..............it is not fair of Evinmeer to say that Pagans are the ONLY people who give attitude. I have been on the receiving end of a great deal of "attitude" and "judgement" from Christians during my almost 50 years...so it does come from both sides. Not all Pagans are that way though; just as not all Christians are that way.

Evinmeer, I am sorry that you have not dealt with ANY Pagans EVER who do not give you attitude about how superior Paganism is compared to Christianity.

Please, allow me to be your first..............

I do not think Pagan faiths/paths are superior to Christianity, nor do I think Christianity is superior to any Pagan faith/path; I believe they are different yet equal. I respect everyone's right to believe as they choose.

[Halstrom]

I'll occasionally spell Christian(ity) as Xian(ity) out of pure laziness. Only rarely do I ever use the abbreviation as an insult. And when I do, I'm usually talking about the fundies, who I dislike greatly and believe don't deserve the name Christian(ity). You can also tell when I mean it as an insult, by the amount of cuss words surrounding.

[Bettie]

Well, that is how communication works. The context a word is used in changes its usage and intent.

.

Well, yes, that's my point. The OP however, seemed to imply that no matter what the context, using the term 'Xian' was disrespectful.

[LostSheep]

I hate it when pagans will write "Xian(ity)" instead of "Christianity" but in the same paragraph spell out the full title of their own faith. I'm singling out pagans b/c they're the only people I've ever gotten attitude from regarding faith superiority (their own, of course). I hate it even more when the post is supposedly praising the validation of all faiths. It's such a small thing, I'm sure many people would say it shouldn't bother me - but how would they like it if I did it to them? Shortening "Buddhism" to "Buddi" or "Shamanism" to "Sham"; "Wicca" to "W" or "Kemetic" to "Kem".... all the time spelling out "Christianity" in full while expounding on the virtues of tolerance and acceptance, equality and the beauty of individual interpretation for all faiths.... I guarantee you someone is going to raise a fuss.

So this is my fuss. Nyah. :rant:



Check out this article on Wikipedia. Might give you a little insight. The X abbreviation has been in use for over 1,000 years. Scroll down to "Usage of X for Christ"

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xmas
Do they know that, though? When it's used in the context of, as I've seen on plentiful occasions, "those loony xtians" or whatever, I find it hard to believe that they're using it as a matter of theological subtlety.

[Aidron]

I do not do this, but I do use Xmas instead of Christmas. That's really just me tipping my hat to Futurama though since on the show it is actually referred to as Xmas, with Christmas being an 'archaic' pronunciation.

Still, this seems like a rather minor thing to become upset about. Besides, those who do it don't exactly convey intent simply because of the way they spelled Christianity. They could be lazy, they could think it looks cooler, it could be an insult, it could be their version of wit. Who knows.

[Evinmeer]

To those who imply that I oughtn't to take offense at it, please read.
It's such a small thing, I'm sure many people would say it shouldn't bother me - but how would they like it if I did it to them? Which is my way of saying what I said below:

So this is my fuss. Nyah. :rant: <---- This ought to have been a slight clue, folks, as to the intent of my post.

Forgive me for not qualifying that I do not get attitude from every single pagan alive. In the same way that several posters have said that spelling "Christianity" as "Xianity" does not necessarily imply a slight against every single Christian alive, I in no way intended to imply that of my experience with pagans. But I am glad you all found this controversial enough to discuss, and as always, it is nice to know that people are individuals who do not all share the same intents regarding certain spellings. :-P

[Lunacie]

Check out this article on Wikipedia. Might give you a little insight. The X abbreviation has been in use for over 1,000 years. Scroll down to "Usage of X for Christ"

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xmas

I have never used the X abbreviation as an insult. My mother was a Christian all her life, she taught Sunday School for many, many years. She also took Greek history and myth in college and she is the one who taught me (by example) to write Xmas. I don't know that I ever saw her write Xtian, but by default it seemed to me to be just as acceptable.

As I was reading through the thread I was trying to remember other examples of a word being abbreviated by replacing part of the word with an X and I'm coming up empty. Why would Pagans (or anyone else) have come up with that as an insult if it's not used to insult anyone else?

I'm not saying that it's never used an insult by other people, but I agree with whoever said that such insults are not limited to Pagans - it's definately more than a two-way street, more like a very busy multi-lane highway. Far too many people seem to feel a necessity to justify their own beliefs and values by denigrating those of other people.

I would point out that in my experience I've seen a lot of people who became disenfranchised from the Christian religion, turning to Paganism and then bad-mouthing and bashing the religion they had left. But I would also point out that I've seen some Pagans who turned to Christianity or returned to it who have also bad-mouthed and bashed Paganism. They generally quiet down on the bashing once they have worked out their frustrations and settled down some spiritually.

[RainInanna]

YMMV. I never mean it as an insult, it's just a matter of habit. I guess I really don't understand how it could be taken as an insult, but then I wouldn't mind if you abbrievated Paganism or Wicca etc. myself. Actually it would probably be easier if we did start abbreviating them :)

[skilly-nilly]

It's something I've thought about quite a lot:

http://www.crowjudith.com/category/rants/


I always type Xian, and very rarely use the word C... in speech either.
I do this because I do not wish to Name-Call the Saviour Who brings Eternal Life (C****t being His title).

If I am talking/posting to believers in Him, I use 'Followers of Jesus' instead, but by 'Followers of Jesus' I specifically mean people who try to follow His teachings, not people interested in Salvation, because I'm not really interested in having nor discussing Salvation.


I'm a kind of Irish Re-Constructionist (a path generally abbreviated to C R-C) and I think getting all bent about what other people who don't agree with your beliefs call your religion is a waste of time.

[Thyrsos]

I'm more annoyed when the media describes someone as a Self-proclaimed "Witch."


You never hear someone described as a Self-proclaimed "Christian."

[Sequoia]

Evinmeer, I can see why you might be bothered by it. I've seen "Xian" before, usually in a disrespectful context. I find it to be distasteful, and unrelated to "xmas." However, I think that there are probably bigger fish to fry.

Try not to let the petty people get you upset. (This coming from me? ahahaha!)

[SphinYote]

Er?

You may want to have a look at church billboards or fliers.

Or revisit Sunday School (I'll grant that was almost 20 years ago for me, but I do distinctly remember using the abbreviation and seeing it used....)

If spelling "Christian" as "Xian" is disrespectful, then apparently by your definition Christians have no self-respect either.

Somehow I doubt that's the case.

Yote

[Caitlin.ann]

I don't see why abbreviating a word is disrespectful.

[Beyond Ashes]

I hate it when pagans will write "Xian(ity)" instead of "Christianity" but in the same paragraph spell out the full title of their own faith. I'm singling out pagans b/c they're the only people I've ever gotten attitude from regarding faith superiority (their own, of course). I hate it even more when the post is supposedly praising the validation of all faiths. It's such a small thing, I'm sure many people would say it shouldn't bother me - but how would they like it if I did it to them? Shortening "Buddhism" to "Buddi" or "Shamanism" to "Sham"; "Wicca" to "W" or "Kemetic" to "Kem".... all the time spelling out "Christianity" in full while expounding on the virtues of tolerance and acceptance, equality and the beauty of individual interpretation for all faiths.... I guarantee you someone is going to raise a fuss.

So this is my fuss. Nyah. :rant:

You're right, perhaps someone else would raise a fuss :)

But... I ask myself: Why would I ? And my answer for myself anyway, is that there is no good, productive reason for me to raise a fuss.

Names, symbols, and so on... only bring whatever meaning the person holding them allows of it. This also holds true for insults.

I choose not to be insulted, and therefor.. I'm not. I believe it's a firm choice I hold in my own hands at all times.

I know this thread was kinda old, but I wanted to throw in my two cents because I find the principle behind my answer fairly important: I believe we have full control over our own realities, and when we become angry or insulted, we can all choose to do otherwise. If a person's intentions are generally good or neutral (perhaps they are lazy, but I know they are not out to insult), I don't see why I would expend negative energy on interpreting words as insults, instead of just letting bygones be bygones. :smile:

[Louisvillian]

Or to be lazy and type four or five letters instead of nine.
What's wrong with being lazy? Especially when you halve the number of letters typed/written.

[Russ]

I don't think I will ever get over how some Pagans bend over backwards to protect and defend Christianity.

[Beyond Ashes]

I don't think I will ever get over how some Pagans bend over backwards to protect and defend Christianity.

For the same reason I would protect and defend your right to say what you just did, even though I find it a bit passive-aggressive :) (Not meant in offense, just an honest immediate impression of your words :))

ie: Everyone has a right to exist and believe however they choose, even if people disagree; and I believe each person's freedom deserves a defense, regardless of what I personally would think of them. I personally find the Pagan community horribly critical of Christians to an outlandish degree considering most push the ideas of peace and harmony and unique paths/believing what one will, but... I suppose that is a topic for another thread.

Just a brief answer to your off-topic question.

[TarotCanada]

"xian" and "xianity" or "xmas" are all slurs on Christianity. His name was Jesus Christ not Jesus X. End of story. Pagans are the worst group for wanting tolerance and looking for an insult wherever they can find or create one but so quick to use this slur. It is really inexcusable. You get what you give.

[Shawn Blackwolf]

"xian" and "xianity" or "xmas" are all slurs on Christianity. His name was Jesus Christ not Jesus X. End of story. Pagans are the worst group for wanting tolerance and looking for an insult wherever they can find or create one but so quick to use this slur. It is really inexcusable. You get what you give.


Incorrect...

His name , originally in Hebrew , would have been Yehoshua...
Not Jesus , not Yeshua...Yehoshua is Joshua , which would be
equated to Jesus...

And Christos was a title , meaning anointed...

Now , as for the X...in the language I work with , and teach ,
that letter designates love , sharing , partnership , giving with
joy , and love...as well , a give and take relationship , where
the bonding of two comes with sacrifice on both parts...

Not a negative corresponcence at all...:thumbsup:

And yes...a pagan / heathen language...

[ignescentphoenix]

I don't see why abbreviating a word is disrespectful.

This


What's wrong with being lazy? Especially when you halve the number of letters typed/written.

Its not being lazy, its being efficient.:hahugh:


"xian" and "xianity" or "xmas" are all slurs on Christianity. His name was Jesus Christ not Jesus X. End of story. Pagans are the worst group for wanting tolerance and looking for an insult wherever they can find or create one but so quick to use this slur. It is really inexcusable. You get what you give.

Wow, how rude. Since you are being disrespectful, can I be disrespectful to you as well. I mean, you get what you give, right?

[ignescentphoenix]

I don't think I will ever get over how some Pagans bend over backwards to protect and defend Christianity.


What are you talking about?

[_Banbha_]

X is not a slur in itself.
From the Vatican, an image of an important symbol used for J. Christ which you will see oft repeated in variation on sacred items like priests vestments, on crosses, imprinted on communion wafers, etc.:

http://lifeinthemix2.co.uk/ESW/Images/monogram-of-christ384x389vatican.jpg

X in the Greek alphabet = Ch
P " '' " " = R

But if it's sport for some to see insult everywhere, don't let me stop ya.

[Against The Tide]

I think its the context its used in that is irritating. As most today tend to do it:

To remove Christ. A slant.
Or to be lazy and type four or five letters instead of nine.

I always true to type the full name of the religion, but to be honest if you are texting and you go over the 180 character limit by 3 characters, I will cut down as few words as I can. Christianity -> Xianty is like the reverse scrabble jackpot :P

[Cassandra2]

I hate it when pagans will write "Xian(ity)" instead of "Christianity" but in the same paragraph spell out the full title of their own faith. I'm singling out pagans b/c they're the only people I've ever gotten attitude from regarding faith superiority (their own, of course). I hate it even more when the post is supposedly praising the validation of all faiths. It's such a small thing, I'm sure many people would say it shouldn't bother me - but how would they like it if I did it to them? Shortening "Buddhism" to "Buddi" or "Shamanism" to "Sham"; "Wicca" to "W" or "Kemetic" to "Kem".... all the time spelling out "Christianity" in full while expounding on the virtues of tolerance and acceptance, equality and the beauty of individual interpretation for all faiths.... I guarantee you someone is going to raise a fuss.

So this is my fuss. Nyah. :rant:
I agree with you. Pagans post questions here as trolls. They ask "How can you believe all that Bible stuff? Was Jesus historically real? Was Jesus really gay?" When we reply what we really believe we are flamed. They delete Christ from Christmas and now they are deleting Christ from Christianity.

[Phoenix Blue]

I agree with you. Pagans post questions here as trolls. They ask "How can you believe all that Bible stuff? Was Jesus historically real? Was Jesus really gay?" When we reply what we really believe we are flamed. They delete Christ from Christmas and now they are deleting Christ from Christianity.
Path bashing is not allowed on Mysticwicks. If you have problems with the behavior of a few Pagans in particular on MW, please report it.