posted on Jan, 23 2010 @ 12:35 PM
So, I read almost all of this thread and have found it quite interesting. However, I get the sense that since, at heart, at least most would agree,
that we are spiritual beings, we are always looking for spiritual fulfillment. And, of course, since Christianity is not seen as popular as the
others, we are always seeking new ways of understanding our spiritual realities, whatever they may be.
The thing is, as Emptyness Dancing and Over the Edge have pointed out, a lot of what, it seems, is being said in this thread, is just New Age belief.
Yet, this is where history, especially, Church history (I know, forgive me) proves to be helpful.
For, even before the time of Christ, there was a movement, a loose set of beliefs that fell under the title of "Gnosticism." Essentially, Gnosticism
was a sort of hidden knowledge, hence the word "gnosis," the Greek root meaning "knowledge." And, it's purpose was to reveal the mysteries of the
universe, which had elements of pantheism, dualism and some, sects, oneism. The interesting thing about it was that it was not an organized religion,
nor was it really a defined movement. However, it pre-dated Christianity until Christianity came along, whereby it assimilated itself into its
thoughts and beliefs, since it was the religion gaining most popularity.
I mention it merely as another source of information in understanding all of these new theories and ideas that I have seen in this thread, Hidden
Hand's thread, and countless others. While I understand the search for our own religion, I also wonder why we immediately dismiss Christianity out of
hand. Granted, I understand that it's beliefs and concepts are not the easiest to accept of understand, and that the Bible is hard to interpret, but,
it almost seems as though we don't necessarily give it a chance because it is not as "fun and exciting" as everything else. But hey, if I was told,
that I could become a god, the way Eve was told, I suppose I would give it a second thought.
I enjoy these informative and interesting posts, which is why I decided to join, and it is my hope that this post serves as a little perspective on
how new the "New Age" actually is.