Deist & Pagan Challenge - 40 Questions

[Thezoso]

Challenge made by Brett Keane:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u1pmp-21tWA

20 questions for Pagans, and 20 question or Deists. I thought some people might be interested.

[Darth Brooks]

1. Because on the path of Set, it's forbidden.

2. To eliminate the competition and monopolize the marketplace of ideas.

3. Because their supporters didn't like pagans.

4. No on both counts. Sex is obviously nature's incentive for breeding, and I think homosexuality is nature's birth control.

5. Because these taboos originated in cultures where sex just for pleasure, outside the purpose of reproduction, was detrimental to the survival of the tribe. The problem is that these taboos are outdated, since non-reproductive sex is no longer detrimental to our survival. (Or at least, not for now.)

6. Our bodies disintegrate and our matter and energy pass onward into new life.

7. Maybe for some pagans but not for most.

8. No.

9. The pagan holidays are not our private property, anybody can co-opt them and redefine them according to their own needs and wishes. The Catholic Church adopted many of them to win over those pagans who didn't want to convert because it would mean giving up their sacred holy days.

10. This is a loaded question which seems designed to propagate hatred toward one group or another. If the question is answered strictly in terms of the given options, then no matter how it is answered, the answerer can be accused of being bigoted and prejudiced by either side. I would not want to let go of either person, and their persuasions would not have anything to do with whether or not they deserve to be saved.

11. Abortion should be legal, for the same reason that hunting is legal. (Population control - if we can do it to the animals, we can do it to ourselves.) I am undecided about capital punishment. I am concerned for those death-row prisoners who are actually innocent.

12. Because it followed precedents established in Zoroastrianism, Atenism, Mithraism, Osirianism, the Eleusian Mysteries, Platonic idealism, and various other things that were started by pagans. In other words, it is really just another pagan religion.

13. "Fluffy bunny" is a derogatory term used by some pagans to describe those who think of the pagan Gods, or of paganism itself, as all "sweetness and light." "Pagan" is a derogatory term used by Christians, Muslims, and Jews for anyone who isn't Christian, Muslim, or Jewish, regardless of their different interpretations about things. Historically, this included atheists. It has more recently become an umbrella term for numerous belief systems, including those of "fluffy bunnies."

14. In the case of my path there is no conversion process, you either are and you eventually realize it, or you aren't.

15. Yes - Quaker.

16. Set, the Red Lord, God of thunder, deserts, death, decay, entropy, chaos, disorder, otherness, separation, initiation and growth. The dark force which keeps the circle of life in motion. Identified with Baal by the Hyksos, with Typhon and YHWH by the Greeks, and with Satan by the Coptic Christians, He is the dark face of Horus, and Horus is His light face. They are understood as one God expressed as a polarized divinity, both aspects of which are necessary to the cosmic balance, like the yin and the yang of the Tao. Set is said to influence the universe from upon His throne behind the Big Dipper. He is understood to sometimes be a God and sometimes a Devil, defending or challenging the Establishment according to the needs of the moment. He is believed to be the only Deity powerful enough to ward off the Apep serpent, with which He sometimes empathizes, and He is said to ritually slay Osiris, by which the regenerative powers of nature are brought into play.

17. The only way I might ever "have" to choose is if someone were to try and violently coerce me to do so - in which case, they might as well kill me, because there would be no way for me to choose another path and be honest with myself.

18. No. Why should it?

19. Having my body and brain replaced by a Pod Person, most likely.

20. World peace will never be achieved by demanding - or even just asking - people to give up who they are and conform. In fact that's part of the reason why there's so much global conflict in the first place. But if it could somehow be proven that *my* religious practices are the reason for all the turmoil among human beings, then I would stop practicing immediately. Somehow, I don't think that's going to work.

So where's the challenge?

[Philosophia]

*moving to Just Pagan*

[Cassie]

My connection is too slow to watch the video at the moment. Can anyone fill me in what the questions were?

[Darth Brooks]

Here you go, Cassie, these are the twenty questions for pagans. I'll get the twenty questions for Deists in a moment.

1. Why don't you push your religion like Christians and Muslims do?

2. Why do you think Christians burned pagan literature and murdered pagans throughout history?

3. Why do you think the men of the Bible are considered heroes for murdering pagans?

4. Is sex immoral, as well as homosexuality? Please explain why.

5. Why do you think Christians are against anal sex and oral sex?

6. Explain what happens to us when we die.

7. Is it against the pagan belief system to marry an atheist?

8. Can you think of one original thing Jesus ever said which wasn't already said in paganism?

9. Why do you think Christians stole your holidays? (His words)

10. If you were hanging over a cliff and in your left hand a Christian was dangling, and in your right is an atheist, which one of them would you let go? If you don't let go of one of them, all three of you will die.

11. What are your views on abortion and capital punishment and why?

12. Why does Christianity seem so similar to older pagan religions?

13. What is the difference between a pagan and a fluffy bunny?

14. How does one go about becoming a pagan?

15. Did you originally grow up in a Christian home?

16. Explain the attributes of your God or Gods, if you have more than one.

17. If you had to choose a religion outside of paganism, which would it be and why?

18. Would nature feel any remorse for your suffering and death?

19. What would it take to go against your own moral code and principles?

20. Would you give up your entire belief system if, in return, there would be world peace?

[Darth Brooks]

The Deist questions.

1. Define a "God" and its attributes.

2. How did you come to the conclusion that your God exists?

3. Why did your God cause so much suffering in the world, then run away?

4. Why did your God allow these false religions?

5. Why did your God bother creating humanity and the earth?

6. What was the point in creating the universe?

7. Describe in great detail what evolution is.

8. Explain why death is necessary.

9. Describe a soul and where it is located.

10. Why did God create sound? [Note: What?]

11. Why have faith in God if this God does not care about you?

12. What is the difference between Christian/Muslim faith and your faith?

13. Did your God create disabilities and disease?

14. Why do you think atheists lack a belief in deities?

15. Do religious people treat you differently because you believe in a God?

16. Why did your God create a system which involves killing its creation in order to survive?

17. Define reality.

18. Where do you assume you are going when you die?

19. Would you prefer there to be a God or no God? Explain why.

20. Is Your God male or female? Explain how you know.

[Nesta]

1. Why don't you push your religion like Christians and Muslims do?

It would be considered wrong, people should find their path of their own accord.

2. Why do you think Christians burned pagan literature and murdered pagans throughout history?

To get rid of what they percieved to be a potentially dangerous element. It's easier to do what you want when you get rid of the competition.

3. Why do you think the men of the Bible are considered heroes for murdering pagans?

Christians viewed Pagans as immoral, dangerous people.

4. Is sex immoral, as well as homosexuality? Please explain why.

No. Sex is an amazing thing, to be celebrated and enjoyed. Whether its straight or gay is irrelevant.

5. Why do you think Christians are against anal sex and oral sex?

Because Christians speceifically linked these acts with Paganism and homosexuality.

6. Explain what happens to us when we die.

Our bodies cease to exist but our energy carries on endlessly.

7. Is it against the pagan belief system to marry an atheist?

No. I have no idea why that would be the case.

8. Can you think of one original thing Jesus ever said which wasn't already said in paganism?

No.

9. Why do you think Christians stole your holidays? (His words)

Imitation is a good form of flattery. And also because they wouldn't have been popular if they had taken away the religious celebrations entirely.

10. If you were hanging over a cliff and in your left hand a Christian was dangling, and in your right is an atheist, which one of them would you let go? If you don't let go of one of them, all three of you will die.

My left because my right wrist is very weak and I wouldn't be able to save anyone with it. If I concentrated on the left I'd at least have a chance of saving someone. I don't care about their religion.

11. What are your views on abortion and capital punishment and why?

I'm pro-choice, women should always have a choice. I'm uncomfortable with the idea of capital punishment.

12. Why does Christianity seem so similar to older pagan religions?

Because it is so largely based on Pagan concepts, celebrations, etc.

13. What is the difference between a pagan and a fluffy bunny?

A fluffy bunny sees only the prettier lighter side of things, its not realistic. I would hope that a Pagan could see that darker concepts are very relevant and real. Balance is important.

14. How does one go about becoming a pagan?

You either are or you aren't. Everyone begins their journey in their own personal way.

15. Did you originally grow up in a Christian home?

Yes, Catholic. It didn't traumatise me.

16. Explain the attributes of your God or Gods, if you have more than one.

Odin represents the search for knowledge and learning through emotional experiences. Triumph through adversity.

Freyja represents life, love, death, strength and courage, She is a very sexual Goddess.

17. If you had to choose a religion outside of paganism, which would it be and why?

I couldn't, it would be impossible for me.

18. Would nature feel any remorse for your suffering and death?

No, suffering and death are natural.

19. What would it take to go against your own moral code and principles?

Nothing could make that happen.

20. Would you give up your entire belief system if, in return, there would be world peace?

Somehow I think that would be the wrong way to go about it. How could world peace be achieved by making me wretched?


Thanks for posting the questions Darth.

[Cassie]

Thanks Darth!
I could write an essay for most of those questions but I will try to keep my answers short...

1. Why don't you push your religion like Christians and Muslims do?
There is no requirement or need to.

2. Why do you think Christians burned pagan literature and murdered pagans throughout history?
At times they did this to maintain their own power base but I don't think these actions were typical of their religion.

3. Why do you think the men of the Bible are considered heroes for murdering pagans?
Cultural context.

4. Is sex immoral, as well as homosexuality? Please explain why.
Neither are immoral. Both are perfectly normal. I can't think of any reason to believe otherwise.

5. Why do you think Christians are against anal sex and oral sex?
Most Christians I know are not against these things.

6. Explain what happens to us when we die.
Our souls continue to develop.

7. Is it against the pagan belief system to marry an atheist?
No, not in most paths that I am aware of.

8. Can you think of one original thing Jesus ever said which wasn't already said in paganism?
I am not expert enough in the millions of Pagan belief systems to answer that.

9. Why do you think Christians stole your holidays? (His words)
Very loaded question! There were many reasons. Partly to consolidate power, partly for convenience and many other reasons besides...

10. If you were hanging over a cliff and in your left hand a Christian was dangling, and in your right is an atheist, which one of them would you let go? If you don't let go of one of them, all three of you will die.
Stupid question which proves nothing. I would do my best to save both. Their religious or non religious views would have no influence whatsoever on what I did.

11. What are your views on abortion and capital punishment and why?
I am in favour of a woman's right to chose and I think it is unfair to bring unwanted children into the world. I am against capital punishment because the danger of killing an innocent person is too great.

12. Why does Christianity seem so similar to older pagan religions?
I don't think it does.

13. What is the difference between a pagan and a fluffy bunny?
Both can be Pagan but Fluffies are generally less learned and in my opinion less balanced in their practice and beliefs.

14. How does one go about becoming a pagan?
Develop an interest, read a lot, start to practice and learn from your mistakes and successes.

15. Did you originally grow up in a Christian home?
Yes.

16. Explain the attributes of your God or Gods, if you have more than one.
In short; nature and nurture.

17. If you had to choose a religion outside of paganism, which would it be and why?
This is not the process by which one becomes religious or spiritual. It's not like chosing sweets from a sweet shop. However, the other religion which influences me most is Buddhism.

18. Would nature feel any remorse for your suffering and death?
Maybe.

19. What would it take to go against your own moral code and principles?
Stupidity maybe.

20. Would you give up your entire belief system if, in return, there would be world peace?
No because there wouldn't be.

These questions demonstrate an accute ignorence of what spiritual and religious beliefs are. They make as much logical sense as saying please explain why the paintings of Da Vinci are more wholesome than the paintings of Monet using only numbers.

[Meadhbh]

1. Why don't you push your religion like Christians and Muslims do?
There is no reason to. People for the most part are the religion they want to be.

2. Why do you think Christians burned pagan literature and murdered pagans throughout history?
They did so when it disagreed with church teachings. A good form of crowd control.

3. Why do you think the men of the Bible are considered heroes for murdering pagans?
Because with in the culture of the time thats how they were viewed. By the jews or the christians depending on when your talking about.


4. Is sex immoral, as well as homosexuality? Please explain why.
Neither of them are, I fail to see how they could be.

5. Why do you think Christians are against anal sex and oral sex?
Never really thought about it. I guess its a part of their sex hang up.

6. Explain what happens to us when we die.
Our souls go to the otherworld and eventually head back to earth.

7. Is it against the pagan belief system to marry an atheist?
Not that I'm aware of.

8. Can you think of one original thing Jesus ever said which wasn't already said in paganism?
No not really.

9. Why do you think Christians stole your holidays? (His words)
It made conversation easier.

10. If you were hanging over a cliff and in your left hand a Christian was dangling, and in your right is an atheist, which one of them would you let go? If you don't let go of one of them, all three of you will die.
I'm right handed so I'd have a better chance of saving the atheist.

11. What are your views on abortion and capital punishment and why?
I'm okay with both. Why? Because its all a part of life.

12. Why does Christianity seem so similar to older pagan religions?
Because it adopted alot from pagan cultures.

13. What is the difference between a pagan and a fluffy bunny?
A pagan is a pagan. A fluff bunny is some one who chooses to focus on one aspect of it.

14. How does one go about becoming a pagan?
I would start off with some research.

15. Did you originally grow up in a Christian home?
Not really no.

16. Explain the attributes of your God or Gods, if you have more than one.
Well it would depend on which one you'd like to know about.

17. If you had to choose a religion outside of paganism, which would it be and why?
I guess I'd be a catholic. Close enough.

18. Would nature feel any remorse for your suffering and death?
No. Every one suffers and every one dies, its all a part of life.

19. What would it take to go against your own moral code and principles?
It would depend on the situation in question.

20. Would you give up your entire belief system if, in return, there would be world peace?
There is never going to be world peace. There for the question does not apply.

[Faelon_Moon_Hawk]

1. Why don't you push your religion like Christians and Muslims do?
Because i think it's wrong (and egotistical), who am I to tell someone what is thier right path? The only person who knows that is that person themselves.

2. Why do you think Christians burned pagan literature and murdered pagans throughout history?
Yes, along with mostly those who went against the church, be they heretic, scientist, or different types of christians..or just ppl who pissed off the wrong people.

3. Why do you think the men of the Bible are considered heroes for murdering pagans?
Because it's written by those with the same ideals. It's siad the conquerers write history. So of course they would revere those who they say did great things, even if others from different groups did not think the same.

4. Is sex immoral, as well as homosexuality? Please explain why.
no. Sex is natural, its no more immoral than any other natural act, and when an expression of love it's certainly not immoral. as for homosexuality, love is love, plain and simple. If you love someone, what does it matter what sex you both are?

5. Why do you think Christians are against anal sex and oral sex?
i don't have enough knowledge to answer this.

6. Explain what happens to us when we die.
our bodies die and decompose, our spirits live on and are reincarnated.

7. Is it against the pagan belief system to marry an atheist?
no. unless its a trad specific thing.

8. Can you think of one original thing Jesus ever said which wasn't already said in paganism?
no. then again i don't have the bible memorized or anything.

9. Why do you think Christians stole your holidays? (His words)
Take a look at them, look at the traditions and the history behind them. Look at the "christmas tree" for example, the use of the colors red and green around christmas time. Many xtian holiday traditions have their roots in the pagan religions they tried to surpress.

10. If you were hanging over a cliff and in your left hand a Christian was dangling, and in your right is an atheist, which one of them would you let go? If you don't let go of one of them, all three of you will die.

Then how am i dangling off the cliff if both my hands have people dangling from them?

11. What are your views on abortion and capital punishment and why?
Like Hel anyone is telling me what i can and can't do to my body, especially someone who has no medical training and doesn't know my situation. Everyone should have the option of abortion, it doesn't mean you have to do it, obviously. BUt it does mean that should you choose to it would be done safely. Outlaw it, and I'd do it on my own anyway. As for captial punishment, if it fits the crime. The key there is making sure the system works properly so that the correct determination of guilt is made.

12. Why does Christianity seem so similar to older pagan religions?
what pagan religions are you looking at? but again it would probably revert back to the other question about christians stealing pagan holidays.

13. What is the difference between a pagan and a fluffy bunny?
If you have to ask....lol
It'skinda like, whats the difference between mother theresa and a wacko evangelical nutjob. You know, people who actually know, understand, and live buy the religion, compaired to those who are n00bs (often willfully) and just don't get it at all.

14. How does one go about becoming a pagan?
Start by doing research...but all the research and knowledge in the world won't matter unless you actually feel the calling in your heart & soul.

15. Did you originally grow up in a Christian home?
yes.

16. Explain the attributes of your God or Gods, if you have more than one.
Bast is the eye of ra, devouring lady, protectress of the pharoah. Cats are her sacred animals. She is a fierce and protective goddess when she needs to be, but also has a softer side.
Ullr is the norse god of the hunt, snow and ice. He is the son of Sif, and husband of Skadi. He too is a protective god, and is associated with oathes and oath rings.

17. If you had to choose a religion outside of paganism, which would it be and why?
an eastern relgion, perhaps taoism. Judeochristian religions simply don't appeal to me.

18. Would nature feel any remorse for your suffering and death?
nope. it is the way of things.

19. What would it take to go against your own moral code and principles?
nothing.

20. Would you give up your entire belief system if, in return, there would be world peace?
the needs of the many out weigh the needs of the few. So yes.

[Philosophia]

1. Why don't you push your religion like Christians and Muslims do? Because it's not a religion.

2. Why do you think Christians burned pagan literature and murdered pagans throughout history? The same reason why pagans murdered Christians.

3. Why do you think the men of the Bible are considered heroes for murdering pagans? Probably the same reason men were considered heroes for killing Christians.

4. Is sex immoral, as well as homosexuality? Please explain why. I'm asexual so sex on a whole means nothing to me. It's not immoral or moral, and homosexuality is the same.

5. Why do you think Christians are against anal sex and oral sex? Probably the same reason some others are. I'm not against them so I don't know.

6. Explain what happens to us when we die. Our energy is simply reabsorbed and recycled again.

7. Is it against the pagan belief system to marry an atheist? What pagan belief system?

8. Can you think of one original thing Jesus ever said which wasn't already said in paganism? Since I don't fully know all pagan religions, I can't answer that.

9. Why do you think Christians stole your holidays? (His words) Did they steal or absorb them like other Pagan paths?

10. If you were hanging over a cliff and in your left hand a Christian was dangling, and in your right is an atheist, which one of them would you let go? If you don't let go of one of them, all three of you will die. I'd probably die. I'm lousy at making decisions.

11. What are your views on abortion and capital punishment and why? I'm pro-choice but I'm against capital punishment (I don't trust governments and juries enough to believe they will impartial in their decisions)

12. Why does Christianity seem so similar to older pagan religions? It does? News to me.

13. What is the difference between a pagan and a fluffy bunny? Nothing much. It's generally people's perceptions on what they define a fluffy bunny. For me, a fluffy bunny is too commercial and superficial without any real substance. A pagan can still be a fluffy bunny.

14. How does one go about becoming a pagan? Reading, writing, and learning.

15. Did you originally grow up in a Christian home? No.

16. Explain the attributes of your God or Gods, if you have more than one. Knowledge, wisdom, peace, tolerance, and the "darker" side of life.

17. If you had to choose a religion outside of paganism, which would it be and why? Since I don't have a religion to begin with, I don't think would go to any religion.

18. Would nature feel any remorse for your suffering and death? No.

19. What would it take to go against your own moral code and principles? If something hurt my loved ones, I would do anything to protect them.

20. Would you give up your entire belief system if, in return, there would be world peace? There is no such thing as world peace. If there was, we'd be nothing more than simple robots with no personality, emotions, etc..

Brett Keane? I remember him. Wasn't he banned from here? Or did he run away?

[Cassie]

The Deist questions.

1. Define a "God" and its attributes.
An entity which cannot be totally defined or explained by our present knowledge or linguistic abilities.

2. How did you come to the conclusion that your God exists?
Reason and experience.

3. Why did your God cause so much suffering in the world, then run away?
God did not do that.

4. Why did your God allow these false religions?
What religions are false?

5. Why did your God bother creating humanity and the earth?
Becuase it is in the nature of God to do so, and also in my opinion to learn and grow.

6. What was the point in creating the universe?
To learn and grow.

7. Describe in great detail what evolution is.
In great detail; no way! In simple terms it is the way nature grows, develops and diversifies.

8. Explain why death is necessary.
It allows new growth.

9. Describe a soul and where it is located.
The essence of our personality and I personally believe it is located in multiple locations in multiple dimensions.

10. Why did God create sound? [Note: What?]
What indeed. Sound is a natural product when something vibrates in a medium.

11. Why have faith in God if this God does not care about you?
God does care.

12. What is the difference between Christian/Muslim faith and your faith?
Really! Anyone could write a book the size of an encyclopedia describing the differences and similarities between various religions.

13. Did your God create disabilities and disease?
They are probably part of the creative process, a by product of evolution.

14. Why do you think atheists lack a belief in deities?
I guess they're just unlucky. ;)

15. Do religious people treat you differently because you believe in a God?
Different than what?

16. Why did your God create a system which involves killing its creation in order to survive?
My God didn't.

17. Define reality.
:smileroll

18. Where do you assume you are going when you die?
I don't know.

19. Would you prefer there to be a God or no God? Explain why.
That is a redundent question.

20. Is Your God male or female? Explain how you know.
God is neither and both. My Godess is female.

Thezoso; some challenges for you!
I assume you have read these questions, or challenges as you like to refer to them. In what way are they connected? What presuppositions are behind them? You will read many different answers, some similar some very different; what qualitative conclusions do you think you will be able to draw from them?

In what way do you think these questions will challenge the people who answer them?

Since many of those questions could be the starting point for a long essay or thesis even do you think it is really usefull to lump them all together in an internet survey?

What kind of replies were you expecting? Do the replies match your expectations?

What have you learned from this thread?

[sidhe]

1. I don't run around pushing Thelema on people because I'm firmly convinced that as folks hear about it, it'll gain more of a following. If it doesn't, that doesn't change a thing anyway.

2. Boredom, and convenient scapegoat. More that they called people "pagan" and put them on trial.

3. Well...in the OT, they aren't heroes for "killing pagans" any more than Sergeant York would be a hero for "killing Lutherans" or such. It was less a war of religion than a war of conquest that happened to be against those of another religion.

4. Sex, in each and every one of its healthy expressions, is sacred.

5. Because they've never done it right.

6. Reincarnation. Heaven. Summerlands. City of Pyramids. Where would you like to go?

7. No.

8. I can't think of one thing Jesus said that wasn't already extant in his own frakkin' religion. Judaism FTW.

9. Thought they could pawn them. Boy, were they in for a shock.

10. What? I'd let them both go, because I'd be wondering how I got in this situation.

11. No issues with abortion. I'd have no issues with capital punishment either if we could guarantee we'd never execute an innocent person. Since we can't, I'm opposed.

12. Because we all borrow from each other culturally.

13. A pagan is generally humanoid, bipedal, and omnivorous. A fluffy bunny has four legs, soft fur, and eats carrots.

14. Well, you can try doing it yourself, or I'll give you my PayPal info and for just $29.99 I'll make you a Genuine Pagan Priest(ess). Some restrictions may apply.

15. No.

16. Nuit is infinite possibility, Hadit is infinite experience, Ra-Hoor-Khuit is the moment of experiencing the possibility, Therion is infinite passive action, Babalon is infinite active passivity.

My personal devotion to Meadb is thus: She is intoxication and pleasure, strength and wanton lust for living. :)

17. If I had to choose a religion outside of paganism, I'd make one up.

18. No.

19. Opportunity.

20. No.

[spiral]

1. Why don't you push your religion like Christians and Muslims do?

I don't like it when people try to convert others, so why would I do the same? Oh, and not all Christians and Muslims push their beliefs on others.

2. Why do you think Christians burned pagan literature and murdered pagans throughout history?

In part, politics and the desire for power. Paganism was a threat to the Church.

3. Why do you think the men of the Bible are considered heroes for murdering pagans?

As above.

4. Is sex immoral, as well as homosexuality? Please explain why.

Not in itself no, although I believe that nonconsensual sex is immoral. I have no problem with homosexuality. Sex is natural, beautiful and fun, and when done with respect and certain precautions, harms no one.

5. Why do you think Christians are against anal sex and oral sex?

I don't personally know of any who are, but it's probably based on the idea that sex is primarily for procreation.

6. Explain what happens to us when we die.

Our bodies go back to the earth. Other than that, no idea.

7. Is it against the pagan belief system to marry an atheist?
Lol. Hope not, since I'm planning to marry one.

8. Can you think of one original thing Jesus ever said which wasn't already said in paganism?

I don't know everything that Jesus ever said, so I couldn't say. I don't think it really matters.

9. Why do you think Christians stole your holidays? (His words)

I don't think they were necessarily stolen, they were modified to make Christianity more acceptable to pagans.

10. If you were hanging over a cliff and in your left hand a Christian was dangling, and in your right is an atheist, which one of them would you let go? If you don't let go of one of them, all three of you will die.

If I knew enough about them to know their religion or lack thereof, then many other factors come into play - how well do I know them, do I love them etc. If I'm choosing between a stranger and someone I love, you can probably guess who I'd pick.

11. What are your views on abortion and capital punishment and why?

I am pro-choice, because women should have the right to choose whether they wish to have children. I dislike capital punishment, because there is rarely 100% certainty of guilt, and because I don't believe that murder is right just because it is state-sanctioned.

12. Why does Christianity seem so similar to older pagan religions?

It doesn't seem that similar, to me. But religions always evolve and influence each other, so it's not surprising that there are similarities.

13. What is the difference between a pagan and a fluffy bunny?

A fluffy bunny is an immature pagan. Some grow into serious practitioners, others don't.

14. How does one go about becoming a pagan?

Differs from person to person, I expect.

15. Did you originally grow up in a Christian home?

Passively Christian. As in, faith to call on in times of need, but no desire to attend church or preach to others. I have been given the freedom to choose my own beliefs.

16. Explain the attributes of your God or Gods, if you have more than one.

Every attribute that is possible. I am a pantheist, so my 'gods' are the stars, the trees, the ocean, my family, myself. Everything :)

17. If you had to choose a religion outside of paganism, which would it be and why?

Buddhism, most likely. I prefer not to define myself by a religion, though. I use the term pantheist because it best describes the way I feel about nature, and I use Buddhist philosophies to strive to be a better person.

18. Would nature feel any remorse for your suffering and death?

My family and friends are a part of nature, so in a way, yes. Other aspects of nature, no.

19. What would it take to go against your own moral code and principles?

Nonviolence is a moral principle that is very important to me, but if there was a threat to someone I loved, then I would probably go against it if I had to.

20. Would you give up your entire belief system if, in return, there would be world peace?

Yes.

Interesting questions, though I wonder what Brett Keane is hoping to achieve by asking them.

[sleepycat]

1. Why don't you push your religion like Christians and Muslims do?
Not all Christians "push" their faith. Nor do all Muslims. I don't push my beliefs, part of my belief system is that the Lord and Lady, however one my visualize them, choose their own.

2. Why do you think Christians burned pagan literature and murdered pagans throughout history?
When the Romans held power over the Christians, the fed them to lions in an arena. (Lots of pagans like to forget about that.)
The Catholic Church, in expanding it's power, followed the Roman example and killed those they could not convert. People forget that the Catholic Church was once an empire.

3. Why do you think the men of the Bible are considered heroes for murdering pagans?
Same reason that we give medals to soldiers.

4. Is sex immoral, as well as homosexuality? Please explain why.
Sex is natural, so is homosexuality. Love is love.

5. Why do you think Christians are against anal sex and oral sex?
Not all of them are. It's a cultural cary-over from Judaism, thousands of years old. At some point, it may have been counter-survival, but it's outdated.

6. Explain what happens to us when we die.
I don't know, nor does anyone else. I believe that which is "I" survives and caries on in some form, but that could just be ego.

7. Is it against the pagan belief system to marry an atheist?
No. But it would be foolish.

8. Can you think of one original thing Jesus ever said which wasn't already said in paganism?
No

9. Why do you think Christians stole your holidays? (His words)
For the same reason that cathedrals were built on pagan holy places, to make conversion easier. Ireland and the Catholic Celts are an easy example to study.

10. If you were hanging over a cliff and in your left hand a Christian was dangling, and in your right is an atheist, which one of them would you let go? If you don't let go of one of them, all three of you will die.
I would not sacrifice an innocent to save myself. We'd all die. Maybe afterwards we could laugh at ourselves.

11. What are your views on abortion and capital punishment and why?
I'm for both. A woman should be able to decide whether or not she wants a child. And no one can convince me that the world is a better place with the likes of Manson, Bundy, Dahmer, or Gacy walking around on it.

12. Why does Christianity seem so similar to older pagan religions?
A] It's based on older religions.
B] Many older religious ceremonies and beliefs were adopted by the early catholic church, in order to make conversion easier.

13. What is the difference between a pagan and a fluffy bunny?
A pagan is a non-christian. A fluff-bunny is usually a new wiccan that has yet to understand that it's not all "sweetness and light".

14. How does one go about becoming a pagan?
The Lady/Lord choose their own.

15. Did you originally grow up in a Christian home?
Yes.

16. Explain the attributes of your God or Gods, if you have more than one.
Bast is playful, creative, enigmatic, ferocious, seductive, caring, curious in a instictive way.
Thoth is responsible, methodical, careful, organized, curious in a scientific way.
Anubis is ...well... Anubis. *laughing*
( I used the latin names, 'cause if I used the Egyptian ones, most would not know who I'm refering to.)

17. If you had to choose a religion outside of paganism, which would it be and why?
No can do.

18. Would nature feel any remorse for your suffering and death?
No

19. What would it take to go against your own moral code and principles?
That's a tough question. I would like to think I'd stand by what few morals I have, no matter what. BUT, until faced with the situation, I can't say i would. Not a very good answer, but an honest one.

20. Would you give up your entire belief system if, in return, there would be world peace?[/QUOTE]
Stupid question. How does one "give up" believing?
If, by not PRACTICING my beliefs, I would bring about world peace, sure.
But that would not change what's in my heart.

[Louisvillian]

1. Why don't you push your religion like Christians and Muslims do?
Too general a question; I know of some pagans that do proselytise and indoctrinate their kids into it, and I know Christians and Muslims that don't. But, to me, I do not proselytise because I feel that Wicca does not claim exclusivity; it is a path one chooses of their own volition, and so proselytism would make no sense in that context.

2. Why do you think Christians burned pagan literature and murdered pagans throughout history?
Again, too vague. However, the occasions where mass-violence was committed against pagans in Europe were likely just mass hysteria on the part of Christian communities. The same kind of thing happen in regards to the Jews later in the period.



3. Why do you think the men of the Bible are considered heroes for murdering pagans?
Same reason Genghis Khan is seen as a hero in Mongolia despite his murder of hundreds of thousands of people- they're national folk heroes. Judaism is a very nationalistic religion, with a strong emphasis on ethnic ties to the Hebrews, and so the Old Testament praises those who strengthened the Hebrew tribes.


4. Is sex immoral, as well as homosexuality? Please explain why.
No, except for rape.
Homosexuality, as someone else said earlier, is nature's population control.


5. Why do you think Christians are against anal sex and oral sex?
I haven't met any that do. But, the reason their scripture is against it, is because the Old Testament contains the folk customs and laws of the Hebrews, who were a small tribe in a desert surrounded by larger hostile tribes; any sex not meant for procreation was seen as a waste of energy and resources.

6. Explain what happens to us when we die.
Like I would know? I mean, I think our spirits reincarnate, but the mechanism is largely unknown to me.

7. Is it against the pagan belief system to marry an atheist?
There is no one "pagan belief system". Neopaganism, by definition, is an umbrella term. Thus, there is no answer for that question, which shall be duly noted and stricken from the record.


8. Can you think of one original thing Jesus ever said which wasn't already said in paganism?
Very little of what Jesus said had pagan origins; just because a concept of moral reciprocity was used by people who happened to be pagans doesn't mean that idea developed from pagan religious ideals.


9. Why do you think Christians stole your holidays? (His words)
They didn't "steal" "our" holidays. They appropriated cultural customs relating to ancient pagan holidays. Christian holidays have entirely different meanings and intent. Furthermore, "our" neopagan holidays aren't the same holidays celebrated by ancient pagans. They and us are not the same group of people; we're separated by a gulf of nearly 1,500 years of social, cultural, and political development.


10. If you were hanging over a cliff and in your left hand a Christian was dangling, and in your right is an atheist, which one of them would you let go? If you don't let go of one of them, all three of you will die.
Both.

11. What are your views on abortion and capital punishment and why?
No issue with either.


12. Why does Christianity seem so similar to older pagan religions?
It doesn't; not really. Outside of native cultural customs retained by Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy.


13. What is the difference between a pagan and a fluffy bunny?
"fluffy bunny" is a term for pagans who are willingly stupid and repeatedly refuse to learn from mistakes or incorrect information. In other words, a n00b.

14. How does one go about becoming a pagan?
Research helps. But the precise path depends on the path itself. Some have different requirements, some have none.

15. Did you originally grow up in a Christian home?
Nope.


16. Explain the attributes of your God or Gods, if you have more than one.
The ones I worship are the gods of nature and witchcraft; they are the personification of agriculture, animals tamed and untamed, vegetation wisdom, and folk magic. The originators of Wicca in the 1940's also purported them to be the patron deities of the British Isles.

17. If you had to choose a religion outside of paganism, which would it be and why?
17. Unitarian Universalism; it's very open and allows all kinds of beliefs, so I could still be a polytheist.
Or Roman Catholicism, simply because it is such an interesting religion with such a rich history.


18. Would nature feel any remorse for your suffering and death?
Nope. Why would an abstract concept feel remorse? O_o


19. What would it take to go against your own moral code and principles?
If I or one of my loved ones was about to die. That'd motivate me to do just about anything.

20. Would you give up your entire belief system if, in return, there would be world peace?
How would one give up believing unless it was an inner change of conviction? If by giving up practicising...well, I don't practise actively anyway. :toofless:

[Vampiel]

A Fluffy Bunny? :eyebrow:

[Zephyrstorm]

Ah, yes, Brett Keane... yuck. not my cuppa, but I'll answer his simplistic and general questions - though really these questions say more about him than about us.

1. Why don’t you push your religion like others do?
Because its not my business what happens to their religious life. I only have power over my own spirituality; no one elses. Further, given that none of us know the objective truth, I see no reason to assume that they are doomed. Also, my theology leads me to believe that those who are of a different religion are due respect and are not automatically ‘wrong’ simply for being different.

2. Why do you think Christians burn your lit, etc?
a. Christian prejudices against the early Pagans were born out of a few influences. The oppression of Christians by the Roman State, coupled with the high social barriers between the two communities early on allowed for the fermenting of prejudices on both sides of the religious line.
b. Modern Christians, those who participate in such actions, are afraid. I’m not sure what they think will happen, but they’re frightened. Some of them are also concerned for our souls in a truly compassionate way.
c. Additionally, the Witchcraze of the 16th century was no directed at Pagans of any stripe, but at heretics and Jews. Perhaps a few cunning folk were captured in the hysteria, but the vast majority of victims were Christians.

3. Why do you think the men of the Bible are considered heroes for murdering Pagans?
a. Because its an ethnocentrist document? Because the Old Testament is also a document about the history of the Jews? Because conflicts between different cultures happen and the most striking differences make convenient excuses for such bloodshed?

4. Is sex immoral as well as homosexuality?
a. No. So long as it is done with clear consent, a wide range of sexual expression is healthy. Some might even say its divine. ;)

5. Why do you think Christians have a problem with anal and oral sex?
a. No idea. And I know more than a few who don’t have a problem with anal or oral. So why don’t you find one that does have that problem and ask them?

6. Describe in detail what happens when we die.
a. I’m not the person to talk to on that one – a doctor who specializes in geriatric care might be a better person to ask. I hope that reincarnation occurs. I believe that its possible that we spend some time in the afterlife. But I don’t know, and truth be told, I’m content to wait and find out when I’m dead. This life, the here and now, is more important.

7. Is it against a Pagan belief system to marry an atheist?
a. No. I married a fellow who is agnostic, and damned close at times to Atheism. My spiritual path makes no assumptions about the spiritual lives of others. :p

8. Can you think of one unique thing that Jesus said that wasn’t already taught in the Pagan religion?
a. Those Pagan Religions of the Bible != the Pagan religions of today. Too much has been lost over the course of history. That said, I can find several correlations between Jesus’ life and the heroes and Gods of old. Does that speak toward the origins of Jesus or does that speak to the commonality of the human experience? I don’t know.

9. Why do you think Christians stole your holidays?
a. Because of human nature. Religious life is woven throughout every aspect of life when it is lived. Its easier not to force the people to change every aspect of their existence than to demand otherwise.

10. If you were dangling over a cliff and in one hand you have a Christian and in the other an Atheist… etc…
a. What a ridiculous scenario. If there are three of us, then we work together to get us all out of the stupid mess. I can see no reason why that sort of false dilemma would ever work out.

11. What are your views on abortion and capital punishment and why?
a. Abortion – I have a fairly moderate view. I don’t like it, but I acknowledge that there are occasions when it might be the best option for all involved. I believe in diminishing the number of unintended pregnancies, and I believe in keeping back alley abortions to a minimum. I believe our best hope is education, honest and straightforward education, and a shift away from the glorification (and sensationalization) of sex.
b. Capital punishment – If we lived in a world where the police, investigators, courts and jails never made mistakes, I wouldn’t have a problem with it. In cases where there is no doubt whatsoever that the person is guilty, I don’t have a problem with it. The problem is that we have repeatedly killed innocents who were not guilty due to the way that the system is now.

12. Why does Christianity seem so similar to older Pagan religions?
a. Like the old Roman religion? Because early Christianity absorbed aspects of the social and spiritual lives of the dominant culture. That much is clearly documented . Other than that, I hinted at some of that early on question 8. Perhaps it is a commonality of the human condition. Truth be told, it doesn’t matter that much to me.

13. What is the difference between a Pagan and a Fluffy Bunny?
a. I don’t use the term Fluffy Bunny. I don’t like name calling. The issues that are most often highlighted by that particular term is one of Willful Ignorance. The difference between a Pagan and a person who is Willfully Ignorant? Sometimes they are one and the same. Hopefully (and I think this is true most of the time) the Willfully Ignorant grow out of it and learn to question things more thoroughly. Once upon a time I was Willfully Ignorant, but I got better.

14. How does one go about becoming a Pagan?
a. Depends on what kind of Pagan you want to be. At a minimum, there’s plenty of work to do. Learning to meditate, to visualize, reading up on history and on magical systems, on mythology. Exploring mystical systems, divination. It’s a lifelong process. I am always becoming. ;)

15. Did you originally grow up in a Christian home?
a. Nominally, yes. My mother considers herself a Christian. A non-church-going Bible believer. We only went to church for Easter Egg hunts, didn’t pray before dinner and never had family bible readings though.

16. Describe the attributes of your God or Gods, if you have many.
a. No. That would take up way too much room. Just accept that I am a panentheistic soft polytheist with animistic tendencies and live with it.

17. If you had to choose a religion outside of Paganism which would it be and why?
a. Religiousity doesn’t work that way. My mother always said, “A man convinced against his will is of the same opinion still.” I love reading the books on Taoism though.

18. Would Nature feel any remorse or suffering for your death?
a. I doubt it. Except for my plants and the stray cats that I care for. I am too tiny a creature for that. But who knows eh?

19. What would it take to go against your own moral code and principles?
a. No. But I don’t really know until a face a situation that calls for it.

20. Would you give up your entire belief system if in return there was world peace?
a. Another false dilemma. World peace isn’t going to happen while there’s life on this planet. Animals battle, fight and act as the means of balance against each other. It’s part of life. We are animals. No matter how loudly Dawkins squawks otherwise, getting rid of religion will not get rid of war. We’d just find something else to fight about. So my answer is no, because it wouldn’t work.

I remember him too Philosophia. He wasn't a very good participant in the forum the extremely short time he was here.

[*oonagh*]

1. Why don't you push your religion like Christians and Muslims do?

i don't care if other people believe as i do.

2. Why do you think Christians burned pagan literature and murdered pagans throughout history?

whoever was in power called all others "pagan" or "witch" and killed them and their stuff in order to get them out of the way.

3. Why do you think the men of the Bible are considered heroes for murdering pagans?

it comes in handy when people in power are trying to get rid of obstacles.

4. Is sex immoral, as well as homosexuality? Please explain why.

nope. it's all natural.

5. Why do you think Christians are against anal sex and oral sex?

it's just another way to control people.

6. Explain what happens to us when we die.

our energy (life force...whatever you'd like to call it) combines with all life force and is distributed as needed (i.e. like flowing water). our bodies decay.

7. Is it against the pagan belief system to marry an atheist?

not to my knowledge.

8. Can you think of one original thing Jesus ever said which wasn't already said in paganism?

i'm not a student of jesus. i'm not sure what he said.

9. Why do you think Christians stole your holidays? (His words)

(not my holidays, btw) just a way of controlling the masses (pardon the pun).

10. If you were hanging over a cliff and in your left hand a Christian was dangling, and in your right is an atheist, which one of them would you let go? If you don't let go of one of them, all three of you will die.

we'd all die.

11. What are your views on abortion and capital punishment and why?

personally, i'm against both (but, would never impose my belief on another). killing is bad.

12. Why does Christianity seem so similar to older pagan religions?

i'm not a student of christianity. i don't know enough about it to answer this question properly.

13. What is the difference between a pagan and a fluffy bunny?

fluffy bunnies hop.

14. How does one go about becoming a pagan?

i have no idea.

15. Did you originally grow up in a Christian home?

yes.

16. Explain the attributes of your God or Gods, if you have more than one.

all gods are one, the great spirit which is at the center of all things. it is not a divine being. everything that exists is divinity.

17. If you had to choose a religion outside of paganism, which would it be and why?

i'm not of a religion. i would not pick one.

18. Would nature feel any remorse for your suffering and death?

nature doesn't feel anything. it just is.

19. What would it take to go against your own moral code and principles?

i have no idea.

20. Would you give up your entire belief system if, in return, there would be world peace?

no.

[LisaT4P]

1. Why don't you push your religion like Christians and Muslims do?
Because there is no reason to. My Gods aren’t hungry for empty worshippers. If They want someone, They go out & call to them all on Their own. As for teaching my beliefs to my children, I do. Well, I expose them to it and answer their religious / spiritual questions from my own beliefs. But, I do also let them know that there are other paths out there, and they are valid for other people.

2. Why do you think Christians burned pagan literature and murdered pagans throughout history?
Why not? The winners can do what they want, right? Why not erase all evidence of anyone opposing you?

3. Why do you think the men of the Bible are considered heroes for murdering pagans?
Again, history is written by the winners.

4. Is sex immoral, as well as homosexuality? Please explain why.
No, sex is a beautiful, natural part of life. It is meant to be enjoyed. Homosexuality is just another expression of that joy and beauty.

5. Why do you think Christians are against anal sex and oral sex?
Are they? I've never met a man, Christian or otherwise, who was opposed to a blow-job.

6. Explain what happens to us when we die.
Our souls move on to the next lesson / test / experience.

7. Is it against the pagan belief system to marry an atheist?
Not much is against my belief system. So… no.

8. Can you think of one original thing Jesus ever said which wasn't already said in paganism?
I haven’t read the bible, but I honestly can’t think of one original thing ANYONE has ever said, “It’s all been done”.

9. Why do you think Christians stole your holidays?
Appropriated would be more correct, I think. And why not combine a holiday you want to make, with one that already exists? Makes it easier for everyone to know when to show up for dinner.

10. If you were hanging over a cliff and in your left hand a Christian was dangling, and in your right is an atheist, which one of them would you let go? If you don't let go of one of them, all three of you will die.
Do I know these people? Or do I have to base my opinion solely on their religious beliefs or lack thereof? If the Christian is an asshole… I’m dropping him. If the atheist is an asshole… I’m dropping him. Religious beliefs don’t make you an asshole, but what you do with them can.

11. What are your views on abortion and capital punishment and why?
Personally I’m against abortion. It’s not the right choice for me unless my life is in danger. However, I have no right to make that decision for another person’s body. I’m 50/50 on capital punishment. Sometimes it fits the crime, and sometimes not. And I’m always concerned about the one person who is innocent.

12. Why does Christianity seem so similar to older pagan religions?
Because it is influenced by them. All religions are pretty much the same once you get rid of the trappings… they mostly have the same core beliefs.

13. What is the difference between a pagan and a fluffy bunny?
“pagan” is often used as an umbrella term for anyone who practices a non-Abrahamic religion. A fluffy-bunny is someone who refuses to learn about (any) path they are on. A Fluffy-bunny can be a pagan or not. A Pagan can be a Fluffy-bunny or not.

14. How does one go about becoming a pagan?
Well… first you need a live chicken…

15. Did you originally grow up in a Christian home?
Yes, both of my parents are Christians, even if we didn’t go to church.

16. Explain the attributes of your God or Gods, if you have more than one.
Tricksy, all of ‘em. LOL

17. If you had to choose a religion outside of paganism, which would it be and why?
Hinduism. It is closest to what I believe, from what I’ve read & understood of it.

18. Would nature feel any remorse for your suffering and death?
No. Nature is what it is. Things die & are reborn all the time. I have no delusions of grandeur that I am any more than a speck of dust in the grand scheme of things.

19. What would it take to go against your own moral code and principles?
A lot… but then my moral code & principles are pretty flexible and constantly changing. It’s called “growth”.

20. Would you give up your entire belief system if, in return, there would be world peace?
If I was the cause of the world’s strife.. then yes. But, do you really think me being a pagan is that big of a deal? Wow… maybe you’re the one with delusions of my grandeur! Thanks!

[David19]

Thanks Darth for posting the questions, it saves time listening to the video.


1. Why don't you push your religion like Christians and Muslims do?

'Cause I think people should come to their own path, on their own, not 'cause of what others say. Why does this person think all Christians and Muslims do?.


2. Why do you think Christians burned pagan literature and murdered pagans throughout history?

Bigotry, the same reason ancient "pagans" (I'm not calling the ancients "pagan" as they weren't, it was an insult used against them) tortured and murdered Christians (not to mention Jews), the same reason some Roman's burned down the Temple and desecrated the religion of Judaism (outlawing it, etc). Pure and simply bigotry which no human is immune to, unfortunately, even Atheists.


3. Why do you think the men of the Bible are considered heroes for murdering pagans?

Not all Biblical heroes are murderers, but, I'd imagine it was the context of the time, a lot of the Biblical heroes were from specific tribes, a lot of the Jewish tales are legends of tribal heroes, of course, their heroes are going to be seen as heroes for beating those of another rival area, the same thing goes on in every other place in the world, even the U.S. (I'm guessing he's American, and would see the U.S. soldiers as heroes, yet people in Iraq and Afghanistan aren't likely to share that view, it all depends on the perspective). The same reason why the heroes who fought in the Trojan war were seen as heroes, etc.


4. Is sex immoral, as well as homosexuality? Please explain why.

No, homosexuality is natural, so, why would it be immoral?.


5. Why do you think Christians are against anal sex and oral sex?

They aren't. See this site for more:

http://www.sexinchrist.com


6. Explain what happens to us when we die.

I don't know, I think reincarnation is quite a cool idea, why don't you tell me?.


7. Is it against the pagan belief system to marry an atheist?

There's no "one Pagan belief", so, no, not to me, there isn't, is it against Atheist belief to marry a Theist?.


8. Can you think of one original thing Jesus ever said which wasn't already said in paganism?

I don't have a Bible so I'm not going to dig through Jesus's sayings, but, can you think of one ethical statement an Atheist has made that hasn't already been mentioned by someone else?.


9. Why do you think Christians stole your holidays? (His words)

To convert others easily, it happens with every religion, even Pagan's do it.


10. If you were hanging over a cliff and in your left hand a Christian was dangling, and in your right is an atheist, which one of them would you let go? If you don't let go of one of them, all three of you will die.

I'd find a way to save both, even if it meant sacrificing myself, would you let the Christian die?.


11. What are your views on abortion and capital punishment and why?

I'm for a woman's right to choose, 'cause it's her body, her right, and I'm not exactly for capital punishment, while I'd love for pediphiles to suffer and they deserve death, it's not worth the innocent people who get sentanced to it, plus, it's still killing.


12. Why does Christianity seem so similar to older pagan religions?

'Cause Christianity, being a Theistic religion, which grew up and evolved in close proximity to other theistic religions (pagan ones), human psychology plays a role too, as many religions answer a similar need in people, and Christianity did absorb many "pagan" elements.


13. What is the difference between a pagan and a fluffy bunny?

A fluff bunny is someone who uses bad history, even when they've been corrected (not someone who just uses it 'cause it's what they've read, and haven't been corrected yet), who constantly feels oppressed by Christians, who goes on and on about how "evil" or "bad" Christianity or Christians are (or Jews, or Muslims, or even Atheists). A fluff bunny can be a Pagan, a Pagan is someone who may or may not worship a pre-Christian pantheon, who may or may not practice magic, who may or may not believe in any deities at all, who may or may not revere the earth and nature, who may or may not believe in reincarnation. You can really provide a one-size-fits-all definition of what a Pagan is.



14. How does one go about becoming a pagan?

If you feel like it describes you, knock yourself out and call yourself one.


15. Did you originally grow up in a Christian home?

No, pretty much a non-religious, almost Atheist household (although my mum doesn't describe herself as anything, Atheist is still a label, and still makes claims that may or may not be true).


16. Explain the attributes of your God or Gods, if you have more than one.

Right now, I can't really help you.


17. If you had to choose a religion outside of paganism, which would it be and why?

Buddhism or Judaism. Buddhism seems to really fit a lot of what I believe (and I'm interested in it right now, especially Tibetan Buddhism and think it might be for me), and I love the emphasis on compassion. Judaism 'cause it's the religion of my ancestors (on my mum's side), it places a big emphasis on social justice and caring for the poor, I really love learning about the Kabbalah (it has a lot of parallels with Buddhism actually), I like the community and family-feel it has, I like it cares for the individual too, etc.


18. Would nature feel any remorse for your suffering and death?

No, why would Mother Earth care about me or billions of us humans at all, she doesn't give a shit whether we exist on her, whether she has nice, cute bunnies and loads of green trees and bushes or whether everything's died off, there's lava everywhere, etc. She goes on, no matter what. We may be screwed, but, the earth will always be fine.


19. What would it take to go against your own moral code and principles?

I'm not sure, as my own moral code is my own - to help others, so, if someone needed help, I'd help them, how could that go against my own personal moral code?.


20. Would you give up your entire belief system if, in return, there would be world peace?

Would it really be world peace, if people had to give up something that made them happy?. Would you or other Atheist's do the same and give up Atheism?.

[Bettie]

1. Why don't you push your religion like Christians and Muslims do?
I don't need to. I don't care what path other people choose to follow, and certainly don't feel to need to make them follow mine.

2. Why do you think Christians burned pagan literature and murdered pagans throughout history?
Fear.

3. Why do you think the men of the Bible are considered heroes for murdering pagans?
The same way one man's 'freedom fighter' is another's 'terrorist', I would imagine.

4. Is sex immoral, as well as homosexuality? Please explain why.
No, sex - gay OR straight - is not immoral.

5. Why do you think Christians are against anal sex and oral sex?
Maybe they just haven't met the right person yet...

6. Explain what happens to us when we die.
I don't know, I haven't died yet.

7. Is it against the pagan belief system to marry an atheist?
There's a pagan belief system? I must've missed that memo.

8. Can you think of one original thing Jesus ever said which wasn't already said in paganism?
"Hey, I can see my house from up here!"


9. Why do you think Christians stole your holidays? (His words)
They wre trying to stamp out TEH EEBIL.

10. If you were hanging over a cliff and in your left hand a Christian was dangling, and in your right is an atheist, which one of them would you let go? If you don't let go of one of them, all three of you will die.
Let go of them both, better chance of survival for me.

11. What are your views on abortion and capital punishment and why?
Abortion - women's right to choose what they do with their own body. Capital punishment is more of a grey area for me, I agree with it in theory, but the possibility of accidently executing an innocent man bothers me.

12. Why does Christianity seem so similar to older pagan religions?
They all evolved from people's desire to 'believe in' something?

13. What is the difference between a pagan and a fluffy bunny?
I think it's mostly a matter of learning, and experience. FB's are often new to paganism, and are really enthusiastic but sometimes a little misguided. Most of them grow out of it, some don't.

14. How does one go about becoming a pagan?
Once you've sacrificed your first goat, it's a breeze.

15. Did you originally grow up in a Christian home?
Nope.

16. Explain the attributes of your God or Gods, if you have more than one.


17. If you had to choose a religion outside of paganism, which would it be and why?
Some say my beliefs already ARE 'outside of paganism'.

18. Would nature feel any remorse for your suffering and death?
Of course not.

19. What would it take to go against your own moral code and principles?
You'd be surprised.

20. Would you give up your entire belief system if, in return, there would be world peace?
Probably not, I'm inherently selfish.

[Caitlin.ann]

1. Why don't you push your religion like Christians and Muslims do?
I don't feel the need. People are drawn to different paths and I don't think any path is necessarily wrong unless it harms anyone or oneself. I don't care who believes what as long as I'm allowed to worship what I want.

2. Why do you think Christians burned pagan literature and murdered pagans throughout history?
Control, fear, political means. Once Christianity took hold, especially in urban areas, it became a status thing. Anyone who was anyone was Christian. The pagan gods were seen as old and there are many accounts of (ex) pagan rulers praying to the newer, Christian god for victory in battle over the (weaker) pagan gods. Charlemagne was one emperor who spread Christianity in the European backwoods and it ended up being a good way to slay thy enemies and unite everyone under a single belief system out of fear. It also brought power to the church and therefore the monarchy. I could go on..

3. Why do you think the men of the Bible are considered heroes for murdering pagans?
The Bible was compiled over many many years back when Paganism was more rampant than Abrahamic faiths..haha it still is rather. It helped spread the faith and save souls while making room for the righteous and ridding the world of so called evil. It was also extremely politically beneficial.

4. Is sex immoral, as well as homosexuality? Please explain why.
Sex is not immoral between any adults who are consenting. My path says nothing against sex.

5. Why do you think Christians are against anal sex and oral sex?
"Purity". Many Christians seem to equate anal sex to homosexuality and many view oral sex as dirty or bowing to man.

6. Explain what happens to us when we die.
Don't know.

7. Is it against the pagan belief system to marry an atheist?
There is no single pagan belief system but to answer the question its not against my path as I am engaged to one.

8. Can you think of one original thing Jesus ever said which wasn't already said in paganism?
I'd have to do more research


9. Why do you think Christians stole your holidays? (His words)
Socio-political move. Helped to more easily convert the masses, especially those living in rural areas.

10. If you were hanging over a cliff and in your left hand a Christian was dangling, and in your right is an atheist, which one of them would you let go? If you don't let go of one of them, all three of you will die.
Depends if either are someone I love or not.

11. What are your views on abortion and capital punishment and why?
A woman has a right to choose whether or not she wants to keep a fetus. As for capital punishment, I'm more against than for. The sadistic bastard in me things it more fitting that someone suffer behind bars for life, with the possibility of ever getting out taken from them instead of dying an easy death by needle.

12. Why does Christianity seem so similar to older pagan religions?
All religions evolve from something else and consequently as we evolve as a species.

13. What is the difference between a pagan and a fluffy bunny?
As I've come to understand it, fluffy bunnies are people who read $ilver Ravenwolf and take every word for fact and refuse to listen to reason even when it stares them in the face. Those are the people who refuse to believe that Wicca is only as old as the 1950's but keep spouting rather that its the oldest religion and a chain of unbroken faith..just an example.

14. How does one go about becoming a pagan?
Reading and learning, maybe a dedication ceremony. Its more like you always were one and you're only realizing it later on. Finding paganism for me and others was like "coming home".

15. Did you originally grow up in a Christian home?
Yes.

16. Explain the attributes of your God or Gods, if you have more than one.
Cernunnos - wealth, fertility, the hunt, wilderness, wild, animals, lover, teacher, guide, etc.
Freya - fertility, love, sex, nature

17. If you had to choose a religion outside of paganism, which would it be and why?
Satanism or atheism. Technically though I'd have to choose an Abrahamic faith so Islam..no idea why..maybe to be rebellious.

18. Would nature feel any remorse for your suffering and death?
No. Nature is both a cycle of life and death..its only natural. No emotion there.

19. What would it take to go against your own moral code and principles?
I'm a pretty liberal person so..

20. Would you give up your entire belief system if, in return, there would be world peace?
Never.

[coeur]

While I don't identify myself as pagan or deist, I figured I would answer this survey anyhow. I hope no one will mind.

1. Why don't you push your religion like Christians and Muslims do? Because I do not have a religion to push; I do not have a standard religious/sacred text to refer to as Truth; I am ambivalent to the concept of Truth. Also, I am interested in preserving cultural diversity as an observer of people; it would indeed be very sad if I could only observe one type of person.

2. Why do you think Christians burned pagan literature and murdered pagans throughout history? The same reasons why pagans murdered Christians, the same reasons why Christians murdered Christians, the same reasons why Muslims murdered Christians, the same reasons why Christians murdered Muslims, the same reasons why pagans murdered pagans. Most of the 'pagans' murdered by Christians were not actually pagans. Many were Christians--only from a different sect which was sometimes deemed heretical.

3. Why do you think the men of the Bible are considered heroes for murdering pagans? The same reason why a pagan is deemed a hero for murdering pagans during ancient times.

4. Is sex immoral, as well as homosexuality? Please explain why. I do not personally believe sex is either moral or immoral--and, for that matter, homosexuality, heterosexuality, bisexuality, transsexuality, pansexuality, etc. I have no strong moral opinion of the matter.

5. Why do you think Christians are against anal sex and oral sex? I don't think all Christians are against anal and oral sex. I think some Christians believe anal and oral sex is immoral because they believe that sex should only be performed in the context of procreation. But, before anyone wants to scream 'not natural,' I would like to point attention to the fact that several religions do call for the holiness of virginity and sexual abstinence which, looking at the animal kingdom, isn't all that natural either.

6. Explain what happens to us when we die. I don't pretend to know.

7. Is it against the pagan belief system to marry an atheist? I wouldn't know as I'm very close to an atheist myself.

8. Can you think of one original thing Jesus ever said which wasn't already said in paganism? I think that some of the most vocal people in paganism are also people who do not have a very clear idea of what is considered paganism and the chronology of said paganism. That said, Jesus wasn't trying to say that much new. He wasn't a Christian. He was Jewish. And Romans thought Christians were out of their minds. Jesus' Sermon of the Mount was mind-boggling because it suggested Christians should love, essentially, everyone and should give to charity out of love--not duty or any other social code. This idea was not something Romans were used to. Christians were the hippies of he Roman Empire with their love and pot luck Eucharists--and not only hippies, but they were the philosophical heirs of the Greeks and Romans. Much of how we see the world today is borne out of Christian thinking and philosophy and I do think that many pagans who assert that Christianity is 'stolen property' may be confusing their own reconstructed, post-Christian beliefs with pre-Christian beliefs.

9. Why do you think Christians stole your holidays? I don't celebrate any holidays aside from my birthday and the birthdays of my friends and family. I will, however, be happy to take all the holiday absences I will be allowed.

10. If you were hanging over a cliff and in your left hand a Christian was dangling, and in your right is an atheist, which one of them would you let go? If you don't let go of one of them, all three of you will die. I'd save the best person. You can be a terrible person and be an atheist. You can be a terrible person and be a Christian. You can be a saint of an atheist and a saint of Christian.

11. What are your views on abortion and capital punishment and why? I respect the rulings of the legal system on both issues. I have no moral attachments to either issue, though I will say that arguments for and against both issues are compelling. Nonetheless, I do believe that, unless we can find a way to tax men with childbirth as much as we tax women, abortion should be kept legal for the sake of fairness.

12. Why does Christianity seem so similar to older pagan religions? Why don't we have too many records of really old pagan religions and how they were practiced? We have druids, but they are reconstructionists. They are not practicing the religion in a way that can be proven to have been practiced by ancient druids. We have witches but we have very hazy proof that witches are practicing rituals that witches used to practice a thousand years ago. This comment will make many people very angry, but it is not too hard to convince people that there is a collective universal consciousness, that there is a 'one religion,' that your religion is derivative of some ancient one even if we don't know exactly how that ancient religion was practiced, etc. When you want to see similarities, it is not hard to ignore differences. But when you focus on differences you will see that they run neck-and-neck with the similarities. In this world of mass communication [post-radio], it is very easy to assume we are all connected, to assume that there is a 'wholeness' to our world, to make broad generalizations about humanity and human nature, etc. But I argue that this is just a blind spot that must not be succumbed to without closer scrutiny. It's quaint, but it may not be true.

13. What is the difference between a pagan and a fluffy bunny? I couldn't give any less of a damn--they're all people to me.

14. How does one go about becoming a pagan? There are variations of ritual depending on what kind of pagan you want to be.

15. Did you originally grow up in a Christian home?[b] No, I grew up atheist.

[b]16. Explain the attributes of your God or Gods, if you have more than one. I don't know Him/Her/It personally.

17. If you had to choose a religion outside of paganism, which would it be and why? Christianity, because it is a religion of enormous depth and history. It is rich with tradition and it has exercised extraordinary influence on how we think. What it means to be human would be very different if Christianity never existed.

18. Would nature feel any remorse for your suffering and death? I don't know of any evidence that would suggest it.

19. What would it take to go against your own moral code and principles? I don't have many or any. Perhaps a cookie. I like those.

20. Would you give up your entire belief system if, in return, there would be world peace? No. One, I have no belief system so it'd be a bad trade. Two, world peace is not only boring, but impossible--especially if we're talking about peace on the individual level. So it'd be a bad trade.

[Dio]

1. Why don't you push your religion like Christians and Muslims do?

Christians and Muslims are more proactive. :toofless:

2. Why do you think Christians burned pagan literature and murdered pagans throughout history?

Really, who hasn't burned a few books and murdered a few pagans in their day? :cutie:

3. Why do you think the men of the Bible are considered heroes for murdering pagans?

Because the men of the bible wore capes. Duh!

4. Is sex immoral, as well as homosexuality? Please explain why.

Homosexuality is not immoral. But sex is.... :hahugh:

5. Why do you think Christians are against anal sex and oral sex?

Preaching christians weren't called "missionaries" for nothing. ;)

6. Explain what happens to us when we die.

The mortician has his way with us. :)

7. Is it against the pagan belief system to marry an atheist?

Not for free, in some cases.

8. Can you think of one original thing Jesus ever said which wasn't already said in paganism?

"I may be formal, but I'm here to party!"

9. Why do you think Christians stole your holidays? (His words)

Because they found my secret stash.

10. If you were hanging over a cliff and in your left hand a Christian was dangling, and in your right is an atheist, which one of them would you let go? If you don't let go of one of them, all three of you will die.

I'd hang on to the one being held in my strongest arm.

11. What are your views on abortion and capital punishment and why?

They were both blockbuster movies that Densel Washington were in. One boring, the other, great special effects.

12. Why does Christianity seem so similar to older pagan religions?

Why are all religions so similar to other religions? But more importantly, why is there peanut butter in my chocolate?

13. What is the difference between a pagan and a fluffy bunny?

One's harmless and cute, the other's a rabbit.

14. How does one go about becoming a pagan?

Get off your butt.

15. Did you originally grow up in a Christian home?

Nope, I grew up in the Trulson home.

16. Explain the attributes of your God or Gods, if you have more than one.

They're the entire cast of the movie, "Heathers".

17. If you had to choose a religion outside of paganism, which would it be and why?

Is there a Church of Gary Busey? Neeeed I explain?

18. Would nature feel any remorse for your suffering and death?

Yeah, you just get the same generic Get Well card.

19. What would it take to go against your own moral code and principles?

Reffer to question to question #7. :bigredgri


20. Would you give up your entire belief system if, in return, there would be world peace?

Who thinks they're going to force their idea of world peace on me???

[Darth Brooks]

Don't mention it folks, posting the questions was no big deal.

Thezoso, are you going to answer Cassie's questions? I think they deserve some consideration.

Also, in what way do you consider these questions to be a "challenge"?

[Calli]

1. Why don't you push your religion like Christians and Muslims do?
Honest seekers will find someone to teach them. Anyone else isn't interested.

2. Why do you think Christians burned pagan literature and murdered pagans throughout history?
One word - control. Christianity was used as a political tool, and fear is a potent vehicle for control.

3. Why do you think the men of the Bible are considered heroes for murdering pagans?
Prejudice is not a new concept.

4. Is sex immoral, as well as homosexuality? Please explain why.
Sex, if done as a loving gift, not to gratify selfish needs, is a beautiful, sacred thing. There is nothing immoral about it, as long as all people involved are consenting, and able to consent. The genders of the participants isn't relevant.

5. Why do you think Christians are against anal sex and oral sex?
They are? Oh, now I feel sorry for them!

6. Explain what happens to us when we die.
We go to another plane to await our next journey through this life. Eventually, we evolve, learn all we need to, and don't have to come back.

7. Is it against the pagan belief system to marry an atheist?
There is no "pagan belief system." Something like this is an individual choice, not dictated by some sort of religious leaders.

8. Can you think of one original thing Jesus ever said which wasn't already said in paganism?
Not really.

9. Why do you think Christians stole your holidays? (His words)
Early Christianity incorporated the festivals that the common people treasured as a conversion tool.

10. If you were hanging over a cliff and in your left hand a Christian was dangling, and in your right is an atheist, which one of them would you let go? If you don't let go of one of them, all three of you will die.
Do I know either of them? Do I have any basis, other than their religion, to choose with? No? Okay. Is the Christian preaching to me? ~evil grin~

11. What are your views on abortion and capital punishment and why?
Abortion is a personal choice. While I counsel women against it, if asked, I don't want the government forcing women either way. Capital punishment can be a tragic mistake. There is no way to right the wrong after finding you've killed an innnocent person. That scares me.

12. Why does Christianity seem so similar to older pagan religions?
Christianity in America doesn't.

13. What is the difference between a pagan and a fluffy bunny?
The difference between a serious student and a college partier.

14. How does one go about becoming a pagan?
Either you are drawn to it, or you are not. There is no initiaition or baptism or anything.

15. Did you originally grow up in a Christian home?
Nope.

16. Explain the attributes of your God or Gods, if you have more than one.
Aphrodite is love personified. Ares is the strong, protective Daddy.

17. If you had to choose a religion outside of paganism, which would it be and why?
Thankfully, I'll not have to make that choice. Probably something completely off the wall. Definitely not Christianity or Muslim.

18. Would nature feel any remorse for your suffering and death?
What an odd question! Does nature feel? The goddess of nature (pick one) probably does, and would be sad at suffering, I suppose.

19. What would it take to go against your own moral code and principles?
A threat to me or mine.

20. Would you give up your entire belief system if, in return, there would be world peace?
Nope.

[Calli]

Sorry for the double post....

First of all, I want to say I found a lot of these questions really stupid. But these were some of my favorite answers:




5. Because they've never done it right.

14. Well, you can try doing it yourself, or I'll give you my PayPal info and for just $29.99 I'll make you a Genuine Pagan Priest(ess). Some restrictions may apply.




5. Why do you think Christians are against anal sex and oral sex?
Are they? I've never met a man, Christian or otherwise, who was opposed to a blow-job.

9. Why do you think Christians stole your holidays?
Appropriated would be more correct, I think. And why not combine a holiday you want to make, with one that already exists? Makes it easier for everyone to know when to show up for dinner.

14. How does one go about becoming a pagan?
Well… first you need a live chicken…




7. Is it against the pagan belief system to marry an atheist?
There's a pagan belief system? I must've missed that memo.

8. Can you think of one original thing Jesus ever said which wasn't already said in paganism?
"Hey, I can see my house from up here!"

14. How does one go about becoming a pagan?
Once you've sacrificed your first goat, it's a breeze.





2. Why do you think Christians burned pagan literature and murdered pagans throughout history?

Really, who hasn't burned a few books and murdered a few pagans in their day? :cutie:

3. Why do you think the men of the Bible are considered heroes for murdering pagans?

Because the men of the bible wore capes. Duh!

5. Why do you think Christians are against anal sex and oral sex?

Preaching christians weren't called "missionaries" for nothing. ;)

6. Explain what happens to us when we die.

The mortician has his way with us. :)

[Tanya]

1 Why don't you push your religion like Christians and Muslims do?
Because its rude as it shows disrespect for the other person's feelings and values.

2. Why do you think Christians burned pagan literature and murdered pagans throughout history?
Because Jesus didn't say much new... and they didn't want it getting out that dirt worshipers knew as much if not more about what makes the world go 'round as they did
3. Why do you think the men of the Bible are considered heroes for murdering pagans?
well... in my reading of the Old Testement it seems like a lot of real estate deals went wrong.....

honestly? Judaism was a small tribal religion then.. very "us" v. "them" pagans were them....and they had the better real estate .. so kill kill kill.

4. Is sex immoral, as well as homosexuality? Please explain why.
sex is as amoral as eating drinking and farting. How we go about satisfying our basic needs is where morality come into play.

5. Why do you think Christians are against anal sex and oral sex?I think this is a symptom of the most scary disconnect in Christianity.. the idea that body and soul are seperate... and that the body is "bad" thus anything that is pleasing to the body is 'bad" I find enough scary shit happens in my life with adding that on massive anxiety about where my neighbor's dick is after I've assertained that its not currently up my ass.

6. Explain what happens to us when we die.
the carbon cycle
7. Is it against the pagan belief system to marry an atheist?nope

8. Can you think of one original thing Jesus ever said which wasn't already said in paganism?nope.. but he was good at drawing a crowd... and the things he said needed hearing.

9. Why do you think Christians stole your holidays? (His words)stole? no..we as humans have common human experiences which many holidays around the world tap into... the return of the sun in winter... gratitude for a good harvest... etc etc....Christians saw that and used it to their advantage.

10. If you were hanging over a cliff and in your left hand a Christian was dangling, and in your right is an atheist, which one of them would you let go? If you don't let go of one of them, all three of you will die. it really would depend on which I have the better grip on.

11. What are your views on abortion and capital punishment and why?Personally I am deeply opposed to all needless killing... publicly, I am a staunch supporter of a women rights to control their bodies and their lives. I would prefer to see better (and free) birth control and adoptions... but my preferences are not something I would foist on someone in a desperate situation.
As far as capital punishment goes, I don't think it works as a deterent, and is ridiculously expensive...I think live without paroll is a more sensible approach... that said..one doesn't end up on death row without being a scumbag... and whether they live or die isn't high on my priority list.

12. Why does Christianity seem so similar to older pagan religions?because we are all human... we respond to the world, we respond to living in a group...there are only so many ways to be that hold a society together

13. What is the difference between a pagan and a fluffy bunny?the acceptance that death is a part of life, and a williness to look that in the eye.

14. How does one go about becoming a pagan?hike for a week alone.

15. Did you originally grow up in a Christian home?yep

16. Explain the attributes of your God or Gods, if you have more than one.oh well... I'm a scientist by trade... God is in the Fibonachi numbers... God is in the laws of thermodynamics....God is the way it all fits together in a great carwreck of univers and it all still works..

17. If you had to choose a religion outside of paganism, which would it be and why?Maybe Judaism .... or Taoism

18. Would nature feel any remorse for your suffering and death?lol no

19. What would it take to go against your own moral code and principles?my daughter's needs

20. Would you give up your entire belief system if, in return, there would be world peace? sure... but I don't see how THAT is going to happen

[Avalanche]

1. Why don't you push your religion like Christians and Muslims do?
One, I don't care what anyone else believes. Two, no one else cares what I believe. Three, I don't particularly want anyone else following my path. Four, Loki can get followers himself. Five, even if it was something Loki wanted me to do, I'd be too lazy to do it.

2. Why do you think Christians burned pagan literature and murdered pagans throughout history?
Didn't like the competition.

3. Why do you think the men of the Bible are considered heroes for murdering pagans?
Same reason there's "heroes of war."

4. Is sex immoral, as well as homosexuality? Please explain why.
If sex were immoral, I don't think we'd have a lot of life since a lot of things can't clone themselves. Sex and homosexuality are natural things. It happens.

5. Why do you think Christians are against anal sex and oral sex?
Because they're not getting any. I wasn't actually aware that they were against it.

6. Explain what happens to us when we die.
How the hell would I know?

7. Is it against the pagan belief system to marry an atheist?
There's a pagan belief system? I'm not familiar with most systems. All I know is that Loki wouldn't give a crap who I married.

8. Can you think of one original thing Jesus ever said which wasn't already said in paganism?
No, but I also can't think of anything Jesus said. Except for the Jesus in that movie my brother made in high school... I remember a lot of things that "Jesus" said and I wouldn't think Pagans would have said things such as, "If you vomit on my bed again, I swear to god I'll kill you."

9. Why do you think Christians stole your holidays? (His words)
That's what I was taught when I was Christian.

10. If you were hanging over a cliff and in your left hand a Christian was dangling, and in your right is an atheist, which one of them would you let go? If you don't let go of one of them, all three of you will die.
Well, I obviously have superpowers of some sort if I'm hanging on to the cliff and two people. So, I could either use these super powers to save both, or since I'd be a super hero, I'd call up my super hero buddies to help out. Super heroes like to hang out in packs. Like the Avengers. They'd be able to fix the situation. Not the Great Lakes Avengers, though. But any other Avengers would be awesome. I'd prefer Doctor Strange. Wouldn't need anyone else, actually. Not that I'd really need more than one superhero in the first place unless it was someone lame like Cyclops. Hey, if the questions brings up an unrealistic situation, my answer's gonna be unrealistic. But if you want to know which one I'd let die if there was somehow a situation where one of them had to die... I'd go with whoever is the biggest asshole. Or if I didn't like either of them, they can both die.

11. What are your views on abortion and capital punishment and why?
If a woman doesn't want a parasite for nine months, I see no reason to force it on her. I don't think abortion should be the first choice and other options should be considered, but sometimes it's necessary.
I'm cool with capital punishment too.

12. Why does Christianity seem so similar to older pagan religions?
It does?

13. What is the difference between a pagan and a fluffy bunny?
Fluffy bunnies are lagomorphs and my dog likes to eat them.

14. How does one go about becoming a pagan?
I don't know how "one" goes about it. I know how I went about it, but that's a long story.

15. Did you originally grow up in a Christian home?
Yes

16. Explain the attributes of your God or Gods, if you have more than one.
He's kind of strange... Not like Doctor Strange, but that would be pretty bad ass. I think if Doctor Strange were real, he might kick my god's ass. I'm sure it's happened in comic-book world before. I'll have to go look it up. And I forgot what the question was now but I still feel like rambling.

17. If you had to choose a religion outside of paganism, which would it be and why?
Because we all know you can just wake up one day and decide to just change religions. Why would I have to choose a different religion anyway? Is someone going to shoot me in the face if I don't stop believing in Loki? Not gonna happen, but I'd fake it and pretend to go along with whatever the dude with the gun is. If dude with gun just doesn't like Loki and I had to fake being something else... atheist maybe? And maybe go back to being a Jedi too while I'm at it. Or make up my own religion again.

18. Would nature feel any remorse for your suffering and death?
No

19. What would it take to go against your own moral code and principles?
Twenty bucks.

20. Would you give up your entire belief system if, in return, there would be world peace?
How can you give up a belief system? It'd be like giving up being half-Mexican. Hey, maybe if I do that, my Canadian half will take over and I'll be better at hockey! I'll have to change my last name though.

[Circe3]

1. Why don't you push your religion like Christians and Muslims do?

My beliefs suit me, they might not suit others.

2. Why do you think Christians burned pagan literature and murdered pagans throughout history?

Because either they wanted to take over as the religion for everyone and didn't want opposing religions vying for peoples attention or because major religions of the time want to stay on top. Every religion has had hate crimes done to their believers, pagans can't call it.

3. Why do you think the men of the Bible are considered heroes for murdering pagans?

Because worshippers of a different diety or dieties were considered sinners to be punished by death. Mainly, I think people hate that which they don't understand therefore they try to eradicate it.

4. Is sex immoral, as well as homosexuality? Please explain why.

If sex were immoral it would have not been made pleasurable. If homosexuality were immoral there would not be homosexuals and I do not think it's something they can choose therefore no I don't believe so.

5. Why do you think Christians are against anal sex and oral sex?

Because the bible says somewhere says the only acceptable form of sex is missionary.

6. Explain what happens to us when we die.

I can't know, I haven't died.

7. Is it against the pagan belief system to marry an atheist?

If we're so open minded and accepting of every belief this would be hypocritical of us. Actually, I find them fascinating in a strange way.

8. Can you think of one original thing Jesus ever said which wasn't already said in paganism?

No.

9. Why do you think Christians stole your holidays? (His words)

So Pagans would convert more easily if they had some familiar things from their religion.

10. If you were hanging over a cliff and in your left hand a Christian was dangling, and in your right is an atheist, which one of them would you let go? If you don't let go of one of them, all three of you will die.

This does not have enough for me to give an answer. It really doesn't matter what religion they are or if they have one at all.

11. What are your views on abortion and capital punishment and why?

I'm pro choice. I wouldn't want the choice to be taken away from me but I doubt I'd personaly do it.

It's hard for me to make a decision on this. I don't believe we should be playing God with life and death but I also don't believe some people can be changed and that they would harm again.

12. Why does Christianity seem so similar to older pagan religions?

Because they took Pagan traditions to make an easier transition for pagans to convert.

13. What is the difference between a pagan and a fluffy bunny?

Light, white, goodness and candy canes. Sometimes it isn't black and white, there's grey in there too.

14. How does one go about becoming a pagan?

Research and studying, choosing which you believe and going about your life parallel to those believes.

15. Did you originally grow up in a Christian home?

Yes.

16. Explain the attributes of your God or Gods, if you have more than one.

Not sure what the questions asking but might be cause Im sleepy.

17. If you had to choose a religion outside of paganism, which would it be and why?

Couldn't, they don't feel right to me.

18. Would nature feel any remorse for your suffering and death?

I suppose, if you're thinking of nature as a diety.

19. What would it take to go against your own moral code and principles?

I doubt that would happen. There are different sets of circumstances for everything hence the grey areas.

20. Would you give up your entire belief system if, in return, there would be world peace?

If it were world peace, I wouldn't have to.

[araminta]

1. Why don't you push your religion like Christians and Muslims do?

Because I don't feel the need to do so...my path is all about choice and not about force or fear.

2. Why do you think Christians burned pagan literature and murdered pagans throughout history?

To quell the opposition and further their own beliefs.

3. Why do you think the men of the Bible are considered heroes for murdering pagans?

I suppose because they were seen as removing the evil from their lands...they were doing "Gods' work" after all.

4. Is sex immoral, as well as homosexuality? Please explain why.

No and no, without the former we as a species cease to exist, and without the latter millions of people would be forced to live a lie. Love is not about gender.

5. Why do you think Christians are against anal sex and oral sex?

Because they have been raised to see these things as evil and immoral. People are always afraid of that which they fear.

6. Explain what happens to us when we die.

I don't know...I believe that something happens, but the specifics cannot be known. When I die, I'll come back and tell you :hahugh:

7. Is it against the pagan belief system to marry an atheist?

No, there are pagan atheists (I know some).

8. Can you think of one original thing Jesus ever said which wasn't already said in paganism?

Yes:

But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be liable to the hell of fire.

I've never heard a pagan mention hell or condemn people to an eternity to be spent in it's torturing depths, especially for just calling someone a fool.

9. Why do you think Christians stole your holidays? (His words)

Because they were fun and it's much easier to take something over and re-brand it, than it is to start from scratch. The people were celebrating anyway might as well make the most of it.

10. If you were hanging over a cliff and in your left hand a Christian was dangling, and in your right is an atheist, which one of them would you let go? If you don't let go of one of them, all three of you will die.

The one that I don't love or if they were both strangers whoever was the heaviest, irrespective of faith.

11. What are your views on abortion and capital punishment and why?

I beileve in a woman's right to choose abortion, though I personally don't like the idea. I do think that using abortion as a form of birth control (except in cases of rape/sexual assault) is wrong, but then it's not my choice.

Fortunately, in the UK, we abolished capital punishment, and I agree with that in 99% of cases...however there are some offenders that I believe should be acceptions to that rule, Myra Hindley and Ian Brady the child murderers for example. Also anyone that poses a continuous danger to society (murderers, rapists, paedophiles, terrorists, etc). I feel that if a person has no regard for human life that they don't deserve to have one.

12. Why does Christianity seem so similar to older pagan religions?

Probably because Christianty absorbed alot of Pagan ways into its practices.

13. What is the difference between a pagan and a fluffy bunny?

A pagan is human and a fluffy bunny a rabbit :hahugh:

Pagan is an umbrella term for many differing religions and "fluffy bunny" is a fairly derogatory term for someone of a pagan faith that fails to acknowledge the darker side of pagan practices or someone that reads two books and thinks they know it all. Many Wiccans are often termed "fluffy" and it is a load of nonsense. If people wish to focus more on the lighter side of things, then others just have to respect that choice and move on.

(strokes "inner fluffy" until she calms down and goes back to sleep)

14. How does one go about becoming a pagan?

Open your mind, shut your mouth, engage your ears and learn about the world you live in. Read and accumulate knowledge, discover new things, respect the Earth and the creatures that share it with you. Realise that deity is more than one angry "God", it is all the gods that have ever been. Find beauty in the small things, and magic all around you. Tap into forces beyond your wildest dreams and use them to help yourself and others.

15. Did you originally grow up in a Christian home?

No, fairly secular, for which I am very grateful.

16. Explain the attributes of your God or Gods, if you have more than one.

I have no Gods that I know well enough to answer this question.

17. If you had to choose a religion outside of paganism, which would it be and why?

Unitarian Universalism...they accept people for who they are...you can be of any faith and still be welcome.

18. Would nature feel any remorse for your suffering and death?

Of course not...as far as nature is concerned I am insignificant, just another drain upon her precious resources. She will not mourn my passing.

19. What would it take to go against your own moral code and principles?

A gun against my head or the lives of those I love being endangered...failing that a pizza and a beer :uhhuhuh: :bigredgri

20. Would you give up your entire belief system if, in return, there would be world peace?

Yes...if peace was guaranteed.

However I do believe that if more people had a belief system like mine there would be peace anyway :thumbsup:

[zionwood]

I'm a Christian who doesn't think anal or oral sex are necessarily wrong. I mean, it's not something i would likely do, even if i was married (i'm remaining celibate til marriage, that is if i do get married), but i don't think it's necessarily wrong for other people.
BTW, David19, that "Sex in Christ" website you posted was...interesting.

[-Sky-]

1. Why don't you push your religion like Christians and Muslims do?
I don't feel the need or the desire to do that. I share my beliefs with the people i meet and my loved ones, i am open to any questions and would teach whoever asked me to but why push my religion to anyone? My core belief is that every person has to find their own truth,their own path and it might not be the same as mine.

2. Why do you think Christians burned pagan literature and murdered pagans throughout history?
This is a rhetorical question. It is very obvious. Christianity aspired to be the lead religion and in the name of God did many horrible things to succeed in that.Pagans were consider sinners,evil doers,devil worshippers so they had to be eliminated. The same with pagan literature who could fill the minds of the pious christians with all sorts of different ideas. But Christians were murdered themselves for similar reasons.

3. Why do you think the men of the Bible are considered heroes for murdering pagans?
Again,the answer is very obvious.

4. Is sex immoral, as well as homosexuality? Please explain why.
No,not for me. Sex means celebrating life,uniting with your lover and with the divine,it is not immoral rather it is a blessing,it is a pleasure. I don't find homosexuality immoral either.

5. Why do you think Christians are against anal sex and oral sex?
It begins from their ideas and philosophy about sex.

6. Explain what happens to us when we die.
I cannot answer that with certainty. But i believe that is it the body that dies,the organs fail but the soul is immortal and leaves the body behind to either reincarnate in another body or become a guardian of some sort or reside in the otherworld or connect with the divine again.

7. Is it against the pagan belief system to marry an atheist?
I don't think so.

8. Can you think of one original thing Jesus ever said which wasn't already said in paganism?
No.But that does not mean there isn't any. I have not read the scripts of Christianity extensively.

9. Why do you think Christians stole your holidays? (His words)
It was a way to establish their new religion more easily.

10. If you were hanging over a cliff and in your left hand a Christian was dangling, and in your right is an atheist, which one of them would you let go? If you don't let go of one of them, all three of you will die.
I am not sure.I don't have very powerful hands.Maybe the Christian?

11. What are your views on abortion and capital punishment and why?
Like someone said i am pro-choice. I want women to be able to choose for their life and their body. I don't like abortion but sometimes it is the better choice both for the mother and the unborn child. I say, support condoms and birth control pills more than the abortion ban. I am undecided about capital punishment.

12. Why does Christianity seem so similar to older pagan religions?
It doesn't seem similar to me. It has many common customs and some beliefs but overall it's entirely different.

13. What is the difference between a pagan and a fluffy bunny?
-

14. How does one go about becoming a pagan?
You make it sound like becoming a doctor or an archaeologist. It is not like you have to pass tests or meet requirements. I believe that one becomes something that is already within him.So if you feel drawn to paganism and you make your research,then that's it.

15. Did you originally grow up in a Christian home?
Yes,Christian Orthodox.

16. Explain the attributes of your God or Gods, if you have more than one.
Brighid is the Irish Goddess of poetry,crafts and fire. She is gentle,forgiving,protective,inspirational.She's a mother.

Cernunnos is the wild God of the forests and the hunt.For me he completely represents the masculine energy but also fatherhood.

There are other deities i work with too.

17. If you had to choose a religion outside of paganism, which would it be and why?
I am eclectic so my path has elements from other religions too.

18. Would nature feel any remorse for your suffering and death?
This is a challenging question.No,i don't think so since both are natural.

19. What would it take to go against your own moral code and principles?
Love.

20. Would you give up your entire belief system if, in return, there would be world peace?
This doesn't sound logical.

[~Audra~]

1. Why don't you push your religion like Christians and Muslims do?
other people believe in other things...i don't even like to talk much about my beliefs with other pagans...there are as many paths as there are people

2. Why do you think Christians burned pagan literature and murdered pagans throughout history?
christians aren't the only ones who did this...but, those that did probably did it because they believed it please their god

3. Why do you think the men of the Bible are considered heroes for murdering pagans?
so that others will want to be heros, and follow in the path of those before them...

4. Is sex immoral, as well as homosexuality? Please explain why.
there is nothing immoral about CONSENSUAL sex...and there is surly nothing wrong with homosexuality...what ever makes you happy and doesn't harm yourself or others: you can never be wrong there

5. Why do you think Christians are against anal sex and oral sex?
i know some that do both all the time...

6. Explain what happens to us when we die.
we lose our mind, our body, but our soul goes on...summerland, perhaps...a place to contemplate...then we are reborn

7. Is it against the pagan belief system to marry an atheist?
while you have more in common with your S/O if you are of the same religion, it is never wrong to marry someone who has a different religion...if you choose not to believe, it's the same choice as choosing to believe...

8. Can you think of one original thing Jesus ever said which wasn't already said in paganism?
can't direct quote it...but didn't he say something about being the chosen one, the only one without sin...that he was more important than the rest of us...

9. Why do you think Christians stole your holidays? (His words)
i don't think they stole them, not really...perhaps they celebrated the sabbats themselves at one time before converting to christianity...had to make us look bad, so they couldn't very well be celebrating with us...later on they gave them different names and meanings...dunno

10. If you were hanging over a cliff and in your left hand a Christian was dangling, and in your right is an atheist, which one of them would you let go? If you don't let go of one of them, all three of you will die.
ooh, i could write a book...what is my relationship like with them...who do i know, are there any things special about them? if i were to come up on them out of now where, and if i let them hang they would stay put until help arrived...what are we doing hanging off a cliff? the religion of the person would never cross my mind on who i should save...and if i could save both, and die myself, i would probably do it...

11. What are your views on abortion and capital punishment and why?
if you don't want to have babies, you shouldn't get pregnant...i understand if you get raped, but other wise don't have sex...and accidents happen...there are so many people who want kids that can't have them...you could put the child up for adoption...

and as for punishment, if you can't do the time, don't do the crime...the law should be made a little more fair...we are all free...if its your fault that you aren't, so be it...if you are wrongly accused, and this is discovered, you should be paid for your time in what ever way you want

12. Why does Christianity seem so similar to older pagan religions?
borrowing...

13. What is the difference between a pagan and a fluffy bunny?
a pagan is someone who knows more, has more wisdom towards the craft...fluffy bunnies view it as a fad...

14. How does one go about becoming a pagan?
read, ask questions, search within yourself...comune with Them

15. Did you originally grow up in a Christian home?
unfortunately

16. Explain the attributes of your God or Gods, if you have more than one.
i speak to Loki, the green man, the triple moon goddess, and rhiannon...each have aspects of darkness and nature

17. If you had to choose a religion outside of paganism, which would it be and why?i wouldn't be religious...the others don't speak to me

18. Would nature feel any remorse for your suffering and death?
no

19. What would it take to go against your own moral code and principles?
life or death situations...

20. Would you give up your entire belief system if, in return, there would be world peace?
yes...