Are you giving anything up for Lent?

[Kate!]

Hmmmm?

Poll coming. :pipe2:

[Vanessa]

Of course not. :pipe:

[smudgie]

Yes.

Ciggies and alcohol .....easy.


Bit of a cheat really:joker:

[Livia]

No, because I'm not a Christian.

[Me. I Am Salman]

No, because I'm a muslim

[Kate!]

Ah yes, I should have put another option on the poll for other religions.

[Livia]

No, because I'm a muslim

Do you give stuff up for Ramadan, Salman? Is it like Lent in that way? Or is it just the fasting thing that's similar?

[Kazanne]

Biscuits/cakes/chocolate and sweets,Jay says I'm sweet enough:blush::hugesmile:cheat really as Im not keen on any of that stuff,lol

[Ramsay]

No, because i can't be arsed

[Cherie]

Not given anything up for a few years now so will try with Chocolates and sweets. I like Lent and Easter much more than Christmas now.

[Shaun]

might give up talking to Livia

[Livia]

might give up talking to Livia

You mean you've been talking to me all this time? Must've missed it.

[Shaun]

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nXw_jc66UvI/UoTC-xFGZHI/AAAAAAAAJ8w/GmMpV39c0DI/s1600/how+dare+you!.gif

[InOne]

Definitely not.

[Me. I Am Salman]

Do you give stuff up for Ramadan, Salman? Is it like Lent in that way? Or is it just the fasting thing that's similar?

This ramadan I'll be fasting (no eating, drinking or even deeply inhaling the smell of food) from 4am to around 9pm, before going to the hot crowded mosque for a 1h 45m 'taraweeh' prayer (specific prayer during Ramadan) at 10pm, every single day. Muslim prayer is like this btw http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/2e/Salat_positions.jpg and in Taraweeh the prayer lasts for about 7 minutes, and we do 20 prayers in total. The Imaam leads the prayer and recites the Qur'an. Taraweeh prayer is so exhausting, you're legs ache. And we don't just do taraweeh prayer we have to do the usual daily 5 prayers too (one at sunrise, one at midday, one in the afternoon, one in sunset and one prayed in conjunction with taraweh) which you have to make an effort to go mosque each time to do. Women get it easy tbh they're not obliged to go to mosque so all of their prayers are shorter and from the comfort of their own home. In Ramadan you should also regularly read the Qur'an, and although masturbation is regarded as a sin anyway it completely breaks your fast during Ramadan so you absolutely cannot do it under any circumstances during that time. You can't have sex either when fasting and stuff like swearing makes your fast 'weak" so you should avoid that too. There's a load of other things you need to avoid too. This is all for one month straight

It probably sounds like torture to you all but most Muslims are really committed during the month so it soon enough just becomes routine, some even feel at peace and enjoy it. The hours spent fasting sound harsh but that's just because this particular Ramadan takes place in July where the day is much longer.. eventually Ramadan will be in the winter months again where the fast ends at around 4pm but there's a loooong way to go til that happens (to give you an idea of how long it takes, Ramadan 2006 began in late September. so it took eight years for it to get to early June, only like 2-3 months). Here's a link to the dates actually (scroll down) http://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/uk/ramadan-begins

I admit it's hard, but it goes pretty quick and I really love how you gather with all your extended family on loads of days to break fast, it's always fun

soz for the essay :elephant:

[Kazanne]

This ramadan I'll be fasting (no eating, drinking or even deeply inhaling the smell of food) from 4am to around 9pm, before going to the hot crowded mosque for a 1h 45m 'taraweeh' prayer (specific prayer during Ramadan) at 10pm, every single day. Muslim prayer is like this btw http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/2e/Salat_positions.jpg and in Taraweeh the prayer lasts for about 7 minutes, and we do 20 prayers in total. The Imaam leads the prayer and recites the Qur'an. Taraweeh prayer is so exhausting, you're legs ache. And we don't just do taraweeh prayer we have to do the usual daily 5 prayers too (one at sunrise, one at midday, one in the afternoon, one in sunset and one prayed in conjunction with taraweh) which you have to make an effort to go mosque each time to do. Women get it easy tbh they're not obliged to go to mosque so all of their prayers are shorter and from the comfort of their own home. In Ramadan you should also regularly read the Qur'an, and although masturbation is regarded as a sin anyway it completely breaks your fast during Ramadan so you absolutely cannot do it under any circumstances during that time. You can't have sex either when fasting and stuff like swearing makes your fast 'weak" so you should avoid that too. This is all for one month straight

It probably sounds like torture to you all but most Muslims are really committed during the month so it soon enough just becomes routine, some even feel at peace and enjoy it. The hours spent fasting sound harsh but that's just because this particular Ramadan takes place in July where the day is much longer.. eventually Ramadan will be in the winter months again where the fast ends at around 4pm but there's a loooong way to go til that happens (to give you an idea of how long it takes, Ramadan 2006 began in late October. so it took eight years for it to get to early June, only like 3-4 months). Here's a link to the dates actually (scroll down) http://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/uk/ramadan-begins

I admit it's hard, but it goes pretty quick and I really love how you gather with all your extended family on loads of days to break fast, it's always fun

soz for the essay :elephant:

That sounds really interesting Salman,I love finding out how other people celebrate festivals,religion etc,in other words,I'm bloody nosey:hugesmile:

[Z]

No, I'm not a Christian.

[Kate!]

No, I'm not a Christian.

This is why God has smited you with endless misfortune.

D:

Finally, we know!

[Z]

This is why God has smited you with endless misfortune.

D:

Finally, we know!

:fist: Damn you, God!

[Cherie]

No, I'm not a Christian.

:suspect: do you celebrate Christmas?

[T*]

I'm not religious so I eat and do everything :smug: :amazed:

[Cherie]

This ramadan I'll be fasting (no eating, drinking or even deeply inhaling the smell of food) from 4am to around 9pm, before going to the hot crowded mosque for a 1h 45m 'taraweeh' prayer (specific prayer during Ramadan) at 10pm, every single day. Muslim prayer is like this btw http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/2e/Salat_positions.jpg and in Taraweeh the prayer lasts for about 7 minutes, and we do 20 prayers in total. The Imaam leads the prayer and recites the Qur'an. Taraweeh prayer is so exhausting, you're legs ache. And we don't just do taraweeh prayer we have to do the usual daily 5 prayers too (one at sunrise, one at midday, one in the afternoon, one in sunset and one prayed in conjunction with taraweh) which you have to make an effort to go mosque each time to do. Women get it easy tbh they're not obliged to go to mosque so all of their prayers are shorter and from the comfort of their own home. In Ramadan you should also regularly read the Qur'an, and although masturbation is regarded as a sin anyway it completely breaks your fast during Ramadan so you absolutely cannot do it under any circumstances during that time. You can't have sex either when fasting and stuff like swearing makes your fast 'weak" so you should avoid that too. There's a load of other things you need to avoid too. This is all for one month straight

It probably sounds like torture to you all but most Muslims are really committed during the month so it soon enough just becomes routine, some even feel at peace and enjoy it. The hours spent fasting sound harsh but that's just because this particular Ramadan takes place in July where the day is much longer.. eventually Ramadan will be in the winter months again where the fast ends at around 4pm but there's a loooong way to go til that happens (to give you an idea of how long it takes, Ramadan 2006 began in late September. so it took eight years for it to get to early June, only like 2-3 months). Here's a link to the dates actually (scroll down) http://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/uk/ramadan-begins

I admit it's hard, but it goes pretty quick and I really love how you gather with all your extended family on loads of days to break fast, it's always fun

soz for the essay :elephant:

Not sure I am cut out to be a Muslim. It looks like hard work. Having said that I was in a taxi a few years back during Ramadan and the Muslim driver was eating sandwiches during the trip, he told he only ate when he was out in his taxi so his family didn't catch him :joker: That would be me.

[Me. I Am Salman]

thanks kazanne :) lol cherie

[Jordan.]

celibacy http://popoverdose.com/images/smilies/emoji/e31d.png

[Me. I Am Salman]

celibacy http://popoverdose.com/images/smilies/emoji/e31d.png

http://24.media.tumblr.com/c2b2021e6a77e93107bb4d8cc98c0ddf/tumblr_n1vhofCXIb1r539hzo1_1280.jpg

[michael21]

Hmmmm?

Poll coming. :pipe2:

nope :idc:

[Livia]

This ramadan I'll be fasting (no eating, drinking or even deeply inhaling the smell of food) from 4am to around 9pm... etc. etc...



That was really interesting Salman, thanks for posting.

[Me. I Am Salman]

no worries :spin:

[michael21]

no worries :spin:

when do you start this non eating drinking event :dance:

[GypsyGoth]

I'm not christian either, so nope I won't be giving anything up.

[Crimson Dynamo]

I am not sure what a christian actually is (and i doubt many on here could tell me either) so I will be ignoring this silly practice (ramadamadingo same)

[Kazanne]

:suspect: do you celebrate Christmas?

All our lovely Christian festivals plundered by the disbelievers,enjoying all the fun in something they say doesn't exist:devil::joker:

[GypsyGoth]

:laugh2:

[Me. I Am Salman]

when do you start this non eating drinking event :dance:

i thought it was July but it turns out late June, at leasts it's after exams tho
last year i had to fast whilst working at mcdonalds D:

[joeysteele]

I have said nothing.
I don't go with the giving something up for lent things really,what I do is try to do more as to some cause or for other people I may come across.

Rather than give up chocolate or some activity I prefer to set out to do more of something that will benefit other people,even something I may be uncomfortable with myself.

[Livia]

i thought it was July but it turns out late June, at leasts it's after exams tho
last year i had to fast whilst working at mcdonalds D:

Keep focused on the Eid food! Nothing in McDonalds as good as that I reckon.

[Crimson Dynamo]

:suspect: do you celebrate Christmas?

christmas is not a religious festival i am afraid in the UK. The church tried to take it over but have failed as per

[Livia]

christmas is not a religious festival i am afraid in the UK. The church tried to take it over but have failed as per

Hanukkah's the way to go. Eight nights of gifts instead of one. We win. Because God likes us.

[Vicky.]

This ramadan I'll be fasting (no eating, drinking or even deeply inhaling the smell of food) from 4am to around 9pm, before going to the hot crowded mosque for a 1h 45m 'taraweeh' prayer (specific prayer during Ramadan) at 10pm, every single day. Muslim prayer is like this btw http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/2e/Salat_positions.jpg and in Taraweeh the prayer lasts for about 7 minutes, and we do 20 prayers in total. The Imaam leads the prayer and recites the Qur'an. Taraweeh prayer is so exhausting, you're legs ache. And we don't just do taraweeh prayer we have to do the usual daily 5 prayers too (one at sunrise, one at midday, one in the afternoon, one in sunset and one prayed in conjunction with taraweh) which you have to make an effort to go mosque each time to do. Women get it easy tbh they're not obliged to go to mosque so all of their prayers are shorter and from the comfort of their own home. In Ramadan you should also regularly read the Qur'an, and although masturbation is regarded as a sin anyway it completely breaks your fast during Ramadan so you absolutely cannot do it under any circumstances during that time. You can't have sex either when fasting and stuff like swearing makes your fast 'weak" so you should avoid that too. There's a load of other things you need to avoid too. This is all for one month straight

It probably sounds like torture to you all but most Muslims are really committed during the month so it soon enough just becomes routine, some even feel at peace and enjoy it. The hours spent fasting sound harsh but that's just because this particular Ramadan takes place in July where the day is much longer.. eventually Ramadan will be in the winter months again where the fast ends at around 4pm but there's a loooong way to go til that happens (to give you an idea of how long it takes, Ramadan 2006 began in late September. so it took eight years for it to get to early June, only like 2-3 months). Here's a link to the dates actually (scroll down) http://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/uk/ramadan-begins

I admit it's hard, but it goes pretty quick and I really love how you gather with all your extended family on loads of days to break fast, it's always fun

soz for the essay :elephant:I honestly cant imagine having that much dedication.

LOL at having to work at mcdonalds through that though :D

[Crimson Dynamo]

Hanukkah's the way to go. Eight nights of gifts instead of one. We win. Because God likes us.

I forgot about the Christmas Armadillo:joker:. Yes but you had the bad ass God of the OT and the Christians got the good fairy one of the NT. Muslims got Alan, gods evil brother.

[Me. I Am Salman]

Keep focused on the Eid food! Nothing in McDonalds as good as that I reckon.

it's all so fatty I'm gonna be healthy this year

I honestly cant imagine having that much dedication.

LOL at having to work at mcdonalds through that though :D

I got fired though and worked only on weekends so it was just like 2-3 days lol

[Livia]

I forgot about the Christmas Armadillo:joker:. Yes but you had the bad ass God of the OT and the Christians got the good fairy one of the NT. Muslims got Alan, gods evil brother.

A little racist... it's the 'Holiday' Armadillo.

[Crimson Dynamo]

A little racist... it's the 'Holiday' Armadillo.

He can take it

he has a thick skin

[Me. I Am Salman]

what's shiksa Livia, I used to always ask my jewish RE teacher in year 7 but she'd look embarrassed and not tell me

[T*]

:suspect: do you celebrate Christmas?

I celebrate Christmas and I don't believe in religion, neither does my family.

[Crimson Dynamo]

I celebrate Christmas and I don't believe in religion, neither does my family.

neither does santa

[Vicky.]

I celebrate Christmas and I don't believe in religion, neither does my family.

Yeah, christmas has evolved way past its original roots I think. Barely anyone sees it as a religious thing nowadays

[Z]

One time I tried to give up alcohol for Lent because I couldn't be arsed getting drunk at my friend's birthday party and she was seriously annoyed so I caved in. I wasn't going to keep it up for the entirety of Lent, I don't even know how long Lent lasts :laugh:

[Ammi]

This ramadan I'll be fasting (no eating, drinking or even deeply inhaling the smell of food) from 4am to around 9pm, before going to the hot crowded mosque for a 1h 45m 'taraweeh' prayer (specific prayer during Ramadan) at 10pm, every single day. Muslim prayer is like this btw http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/2e/Salat_positions.jpg and in Taraweeh the prayer lasts for about 7 minutes, and we do 20 prayers in total. The Imaam leads the prayer and recites the Qur'an. Taraweeh prayer is so exhausting, you're legs ache. And we don't just do taraweeh prayer we have to do the usual daily 5 prayers too (one at sunrise, one at midday, one in the afternoon, one in sunset and one prayed in conjunction with taraweh) which you have to make an effort to go mosque each time to do. Women get it easy tbh they're not obliged to go to mosque so all of their prayers are shorter and from the comfort of their own home. In Ramadan you should also regularly read the Qur'an, and although masturbation is regarded as a sin anyway it completely breaks your fast during Ramadan so you absolutely cannot do it under any circumstances during that time. You can't have sex either when fasting and stuff like swearing makes your fast 'weak" so you should avoid that too. There's a load of other things you need to avoid too. This is all for one month straight

It probably sounds like torture to you all but most Muslims are really committed during the month so it soon enough just becomes routine, some even feel at peace and enjoy it. The hours spent fasting sound harsh but that's just because this particular Ramadan takes place in July where the day is much longer.. eventually Ramadan will be in the winter months again where the fast ends at around 4pm but there's a loooong way to go til that happens (to give you an idea of how long it takes, Ramadan 2006 began in late September. so it took eight years for it to get to early June, only like 2-3 months). Here's a link to the dates actually (scroll down) http://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/uk/ramadan-begins

I admit it's hard, but it goes pretty quick and I really love how you gather with all your extended family on loads of days to break fast, it's always fun

soz for the essay :elephant:


..oh I haven't got time to read this now with work but I'm going to read it later, Salman...

[Cherie]

I celebrate Christmas and I don't believe in religion, neither does my family.

Well you are not celebrating Christmas then :joker: You are celebrating The Holidays!

[Cherie]

Yeah, christmas has evolved way past its original roots I think. Barely anyone sees it as a religious thing nowadays

You ever been to Church at Christmas Vicky? Easter and Christmas the places are heaving.

[MTVN]

I went to Church for the first time this Christmas in ages and there was barely anyone there lol, was really surprised, it is only a tiny village but I expected a good number of villagers there, must be practically dead on a normal Sunday

[GypsyGoth]

You were probably at the wrong church.

[Cherie]

I went to Church for the first time this Christmas in ages and there was barely anyone there lol, was really surprised, it is only a tiny village but I expected a good number of villagers there, must be practically dead on a normal Sunday

Catholic Church?

[Crimson Dynamo]

You ever been to Church at Christmas Vicky? Easter and Christmas the places are heaving.

And if they did not sing carols no one would go.

[Cherie]

And if they did not sing carols no one would go.

No carols at Easter.

[Crimson Dynamo]

No carols at Easter.

Yes and hardly anyone goes apart from the regulars. The fact that Easter is a moveable feast does not help also. Easter in the UK is easter eggs and not religion. Fact.

[Cherie]

Yes and hardly anyone goes apart from the regulars. The fact that Easter is a moveable feast does not help also. Easter in the UK is easter eggs and not religion. Fact.

As I said above Christmas Day, Good Friday, Easter Saturday and Easter Sunday, Catholic Churchs are heaving, why people go is up to them, just saying, if you don't go you can't possibly know what you are talking about.

[MTVN]

You were probably at the wrong church.

Hmm I suppose I was pretty drunk at the time

Catholic Church?

Nah it was CoE

[Crimson Dynamo]

As I said above Christmas Day, Good Friday, Easter Saturday and Easter Sunday, Catholic Churchs are heaving, why people go is up to them, just saying, if you don't go you can't possibly know what you are talking about.

I have been to churches through all major festivals and I also am aware of Christian church attendances in the UK and how they have performed over the last 20 years

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/11297461

Its a quickly dying superstition thankfully

[Cherie]

I have been to churches through all major festivals and I also am aware of Christian church attendances in the UK and how they have performed over the last 20 years

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/11297461

Its a quickly dying superstition thankfully

well bully for you and your BBC News link. Catholics who never see the inside of a church from one end of the year to the other make the effort at Christmas and Easter, they also make the effort when they want to get their kids into the local Catholic school, in the main it has nothing to do with religion, more to do with tradition and past family values.

[Josy]

Yes and hardly anyone goes apart from the regulars. The fact that Easter is a moveable feast does not help also. Easter in the UK is easter eggs and not religion. Fact.

The Catholic Church is mobbed on Easter Sunday. so no it isn't a fact just because you have witnessed the people in one Church.

[Crimson Dynamo]

The Catholic Church is mobbed on Easter Sunday. so no it isn't a fact just because you have witnessed the people in one Church.

The figures speak for themselves - its a dying superstition apart from in countries where basic education is sadly lacking.

[Kazanne]

The figures speak for themselves - its a dying superstition apart from in countries where basic education is sadly lacking.

It's not superstition for a lot of people.

[Z]

I'm not of a religion but I don't really see why people bother pissing on others' religious beliefs, it has nothing to do with me and I don't understand it any more than religious people understand what it's like to have been brought up without a religion. If it makes someone happy and brings structure, positivity and teaches them to be kind to others then I'm all for people being religious, as long as they're not in my face with their religion trying to press their views on me. By the same token, I don't push my lack of religious beliefs in anyone's face. It's just common decency.

[Crimson Dynamo]

It's not superstition for a lot of people.

If they chose not to see it as such then that is their prerogative but it is a superstition based on wishful thinking. There is no evidence to support any other likelihood.

[Kizzy]

Being fabulous...but it comes so naturally I can see me failing.

[Z]

If they chose not to see it as such then that is their prerogative but it is a superstition based on wishful thinking. There is no evidence to support any other likelihood.

I often think that modern understandings of science is God. God is often a representation of what the human mind cannot understand; the rapid developments in scientific understanding over the last few centuries are filling the gaps in knowledge that humans did not have years ago. Quite why people insist on separating the two or pitting them against each other I don't know. I think it's offensive to call it superstition or wishful thinking; the vast majority of the world's population believes in some form of religion and while that doesn't make them any more or less right than people who don't believe in religion, I do think we should respect that billions of people find solace in their religion of choice. Religion has been responsible for a great deal of art and culture and has defined mankind for centuries, to disregard all of that as nonsense is a bit flippant and disrespectful. I say that as somebody who is not of a religion. It doesn't make my life any better or worse to just respect other peoples' right to believe in their religion without having their views mocked.

[Jessica.]

Nope, I'm not religious but I think Lent has a nice message and I have participated in the past, but people have a skewed view on Lent anyway, it's not just about giving things up, you could take something on instead, like walking to work instead of driving or something like that, for younger kids it could be helping more with housework, it's a bit silly to just be like "I wont have any biscuits for the next 40 days and 40 nights! :B"

[Crimson Dynamo]

I'm not of a religion but I don't really see why people bother pissing on others' religious beliefs, it has nothing to do with me and I don't understand it any more than religious people understand what it's like to have been brought up without a religion. If it makes someone happy and brings structure, positivity and teaches them to be kind to others then I'm all for people being religious, as long as they're not in my face with their religion trying to press their views on me. By the same token, I don't push my lack of religious beliefs in anyone's face. It's just common decency.

The fact that we have religious schools filling childrens heads with utter crap and that grown men who mutter to invisible gods thinking it will help them are in the House of Lords (and getting paid for it) means that its a very big issue. No one cares that people believe that harry Potter is real or that the Loch Ness Monster exists but they would if it were taught as fact at schools etc.

[Crimson Dynamo]

I often think that modern understandings of science is God. God is often a representation of what the human mind cannot understand; the rapid developments in scientific understanding over the last few centuries are filling the gaps in knowledge that humans did not have years ago. Quite why people insist on separating the two or pitting them against each other I don't know. I think it's offensive to call it superstition or wishful thinking; the vast majority of the world's population believes in some form of religion and while that doesn't make them any more or less right than people who don't believe in religion, I do think we should respect that billions of people find solace in their religion of choice. Religion has been responsible for a great deal of art and culture and has defined mankind for centuries, to disregard all of that as nonsense is a bit flippant and disrespectful. I say that as somebody who is not of a religion. It doesn't make my life any better or worse to just respect other peoples' right to believe in their religion without having their views mocked.

face facts millions of people do so because they are effectively brainwashed by their parents and elders and the fact that millions are very poorly educated. Go into any highly religious society and they will also be highly superstitious.

The people that you speak of would find greater solace in a proper education and the ability to appreciate the true wonder of the world through a scientific education.

[Me. I Am Salman]

The figures speak for themselves - its a dying superstition apart from in countries where basic education is sadly lacking.

Why do you try so hard to be obnoxious? Atheists are too quick to dismiss religion as superstition and its believers as having no logic. I know in Islam that religious figures and scholars are extremely well educated, more so than you will ever be

I believe in the Qur'an because it's just so amazingly and intricately written, addresses so much about the nature of life, explains science including things which were not discovered at the time. When I read it I really can't comprehend there being no truth to it, it's just too elaborate to be written by man. The Bible and Torah(?) are vastly similar as all it really is is a different interpretation of the same belief

I bet you haven't even picked up and read a Qur'an/Bible/Torah and dismissing all religions just because you don't like them. Biggest get out of jail free card going

[Livia]

face facts millions of people do so because they are effectively brainwashed by their parents and elders and the fact that millions are very poorly educated. Go into any highly religious society and they will also be highly superstitious.

The people that you speak of would find greater solace in a proper education and the ability to appreciate the true wonder of the world through a scientific education.

Hmmm... I've had a proper education. Also, I have a cousin who's a very successful physicist and also devout, in fact much more devout that I. I get a little peeved when Atheists lump everyone together: Believe in God/idiot... Don't believe in God/thinker.

[Crimson Dynamo]

Hmmm... I've had a proper education. Also, I have a cousin who's a very successful physicist and also devout, in fact much more devout that I. I get a little peeved when Atheists lump everyone together: Believe in God/idiot... Don't believe in God/thinker.

There are exceptions but I am talking about big number in SOuth America and Africa.

I also very much doubt that educated people truly believe, I think you can enjoy the tradition and also weigh up the outcome of rejecting it and come to a happy medium of going along for the ride without buying the car, so to speak.

[Crimson Dynamo]

Why do you try so hard to be obnoxious? Atheists are too quick to dismiss religion as superstition and its believers as having no logic. I know in Islam that religious figures and scholars are extremely well educated, more so than you will ever be

I believe in the Qur'an because it's just so amazingly and intricately written, addresses so much about the nature of life, explains science including things which were not discovered at the time. When I read it I really can't comprehend there being no truth to it, it's just too elaborate to be written by man. The Bible and Torah(?) are vastly similar as all it really is is a different interpretation of the same belief

I bet you haven't even picked up and read a Qur'an/Bible/Torah and dismissing all religions just because you don't like them. Biggest get out of jail free card going

We are all Atheists

[Me. I Am Salman]

Stop trying to be mysterious and clever

[Kizzy]

We are all Atheists

I don't believe in atheists.

[Crimson Dynamo]

Stop trying to be mysterious and clever

It is true, there are hundreds of so called gods around the world and each religionist thinks his is real and does not believe in all the others

[Livia]

There are exceptions but I am talking about big number in SOuth America and Africa.

I also very much doubt that educated people truly believe, I think you can enjoy the tradition and also weigh up the outcome of rejecting it and come to a happy medium of going along for the ride without buying the car, so to speak.

So because I have an education, I don't believe in God?

What you're effectively saying is that you know what's in my mind and my heart better than I do myself. Something a religious person wouldn't have the *******ing cheek to say to you, frankly. You don't believe... that's your right. I'm not going to say to you that you're lacking in any way. It would be nice if you extended the same courtesy to me.

[Me. I Am Salman]

It is true, there are hundreds of so called gods around the world and each religionist thinks his is real and does not believe in all the others

The Abrahamic religions believe in the same God actually, there are just small differences when you look it at as a whole. The Abrahamic religions are also the largest, the most influential and the most elaborate. What does that imply

[Kate!]

and the lesson Kate has learned today is is.......

never start a thread even remotely connected with religion :laugh:

[Crimson Dynamo]

So because I have an education, I don't believe in God?

What you're effectively saying is that you know what's in my mind and my heart better than I do myself. Something a religious person wouldn't have the *******ing cheek to say to you, frankly. You don't believe... that's your right. I'm not going to say to you that you're lacking in any way. It would be nice if you extended the same courtesy to me.

Its my supposition and this is a forum but I dont intend to write a book, build a chapel/synagog and expect people to worship me regarding it. I also dont expect to open an LT viewpoint school nor enter politics (they did not like the school idea at the parents night so its a deffo no).

Oh and I will not be telling you that unless you hold my views you will burn in hell for eternity. :devil:

[Kazanne]

If they chose not to see it as such then that is their prerogative but it is a superstition based on wishful thinking. There is no evidence to support any other likelihood.

There is no 'evidence' to say there is not something greater either:hugesmile:

[Crimson Dynamo]

The Abrahamic religions believe in the same God actually, there are just small differences when you look it at as a whole. The Abrahamic religions are also the largest, the most influential and the most elaborate. What does that imply

nothing, just that people sought answers for questions they could not answer so they made them up in a simplistic framework that also helped to control populations and keep them from wholesale murder.

[Crimson Dynamo]

There is no 'evidence' to say there is not something greater either:hugesmile:

yes like Leprechauns

[Me. I Am Salman]

nothing, just that people sought answers for questions they could not answer so they made them up in a simplistic framework that also helped to control populations and keep them from wholesale murder.

Well you seem to completely have ignored my post on the other page which explains why I find it very hard to believe someone could have made it all up, especially just to control people as well

[Me. I Am Salman]

yes like Leprechauns

not even a remotely similar concept, and a really cliche and unoriginal thing to say

[Jordan.]

LeatherTrumpet snatching all these god botherers

[Black Dagger]

I am going to give up drinking tea, and it's going to be torture.

[Black Dagger]

I'll probably last an hour and forget all about it tbh

[Crimson Dynamo]

Well you seem to completely have ignored my post on the other page which explains why I find it very hard to believe someone could have made it all up, especially just to control people as well


"I believe in the Qur'an because it's just so amazingly and intricately written, addresses so much about the nature of life, explains science including things which were not discovered at the time. When I read it I really can't comprehend there being no truth to it, it's just too elaborate to be written by man. The Bible and Torah(?) are vastly similar as all it really is is a different interpretation of the same belief"

"explains science including things which were not discovered at the time."

perhaps you could elaborate here?

[Lee.]

I won't be giving up anything as I am an atheist..

Is giving something up for Lent a catholic practice? Or do Protestants do it too?

[Kazanne]

yes like Leprechauns

Sorry,but you are being rather pig headed in trying to make people feel inferior for believing in a God,you don't have the answers,none of us do,I don't see fresh air but I know it's there,not everything we cant see should be dismissed,you believe in nothing,fine,but let people who believe ,do so without the contstant put downs.

[Josy]

Mocking someone else's beliefs is ignorant, arrogant, inconsiderate and just downright rude.

[Crimson Dynamo]

Sorry,but you are being rather pig headed in trying to make people feel inferior for believing in a God,you don't have the answers,none of us do,I don't see fresh air but I know it's there,not everything we cant see should be dismissed,you believe in nothing,fine,but let people who believe ,do so without the contstant put downs.

No its just an example of using the "you cant prove he does not exist argument"

as in you cant prove an infinite amount of things dont exist and one does not need to.

And there is concrete peer reviewed evidence for "air"

[Crimson Dynamo]

Mocking someone else's beliefs is ignorant, arrogant, inconsiderate and just downright rude.

No one is mocking anyone but increasingly when you discuss religion, religionists willl bunker down and play the victim card.

[Me. I Am Salman]

"I believe in the Qur'an because it's just so amazingly and intricately written, addresses so much about the nature of life, explains science including things which were not discovered at the time. When I read it I really can't comprehend there being no truth to it, it's just too elaborate to be written by man. The Bible and Torah(?) are vastly similar as all it really is is a different interpretation of the same belief"

"explains science including things which were not discovered at the time."

perhaps you could elaborate here?

well, it discussed the expansion of the universe for example. just search on google for prophecies fulfilled by the Qur'an/miracles of the Qur'an. there's a load of examples and explained better than I ever could. I'm not saying these fulfilled predictions are the only reason why I believe in it, that's just one factor

[Josy]

No one is mocking anyone but increasingly when you discuss religion, religionists willl bunker down and play the victim card.

I see a few posts in this threads that basically insult anyone who practices any religion, so yes there is mocking or perhaps trolling is a better word, going on.

[Crimson Dynamo]

I see a few posts in this threads that basically insult anyone who practices any religion, so yes there is mocking or perhaps trolling is a better word, going on.

I would welcome an example of your own personal opinion of a debate you have not been involved in?

[Crimson Dynamo]

well, it discussed the expansion of the universe for example. just search on google for prophecies fulfilled by the Qur'an/miracles of the Qur'an. there's a load of examples and explained better than I ever could. I'm not saying these fulfilled predictions are the only reason why I believe in it, that's just one factor

Every religion has a list of so called fullfilled prophecies as its part of the shtick. To date none have ever cut the mustard, unless you have a specific one that you can illustrate?

[Josy]

I would welcome an example of your own personal opinion of a debate you have not been involved in?

I haven't posted. That doesn't mean I haven't been following the thread.

As for the OP I wont be giving anything up for lent because I just don't want to, I do understand why people do participate in lent though and that's their choice and it's not always based on religion regardless of what some seem to think.

[Crimson Dynamo]

I see a few posts in this threads that basically insult anyone who practices any religion, so yes there is mocking or perhaps trolling is a better word, going on.

being religious does not grant you some sort of hushed respect, I dont demand respect for liking meteorology (even though it would be nice to get it now and then).

[Glenn.]

I'm not at all religious so certainly will not be giving anything up for lent.

[Crimson Dynamo]

I'm not at all religious so certainly will not be giving anything up for lent.

amen to that

[Kazanne]

amen to that

I AM religious,I hope I get an AMEN too:hugesmile:

[Brother Leon]

Sweet Jesus. Another thread with a load of Atheism preaching.

[Crimson Dynamo]

Sweet Jesus. Another thread with a load of Atheism preaching.

This would be an example of the victim card :joker:

[Brother Leon]

This would be an example of the victim card :joker:

That or someone who clicked on another thread invaded by the same stuff....

[Crimson Dynamo]

That or someone who clicked on another thread invaded by the same stuff....

say 3 hail marys, drop a tenner in the box and by teatime you will be absolved:dance:

[Kizzy]

I haven't posted. That doesn't mean I haven't been following the thread.

As for the OP I wont be giving anything up for lent because I just don't want to, I do understand why people do participate in lent though and that's their choice and it's not always based on religion regardless of what some seem to think.

If you're not doing it in the name of religion you're not really doing it for 'lent' are you?

[Brother Leon]

say 3 hail marys, drop a tenner in the box and by teatime you will be absolved:dance:

I would if I was Christian.


Good attempt though x

[Kazanne]

say 3 hail marys, drop a tenner in the box and by teatime you will be absolved:dance:

Stop being so patronising,I am no victim,but do get annoyed at people who think they know it all

[Crimson Dynamo]

Stop being so patronising,I am no victim,but do get annoyed at people who think they know it all

I think believing that one mighty god made everything and that answers all questions and all things rather than believe in the limits of scientific knowledge rather negates your ire?:conf:

[Kate!]

well, this was meant to be a lighthearted thread, I've never given anything up for lent previously, so it's not for any major religious beliefs, just that I had decided to go on a health kick, and the timing coincided.

Really wasn't anticipating people being jumped on for whatever beliefs they hold. :conf:

[Crimson Dynamo]

and noone said it was Pancake Day

[Vanessa]

I'm not good at giving things up. I'd just end up wanting those things more. I'll try to eat more healthily and go for walks when i'm off work. :hugesmile:

[Kizzy]

I see a few posts in this threads that basically insult anyone who practices any religion, so yes there is mocking or perhaps trolling is a better word, going on.

I think it's a bit unfair to start calling people trolls for having a view that goes against the norm or that questions a persons belief, what's the point in discussing things on this forum if you can't speak your mind?...

[Kazanne]

I think believing that one mighty god made everything and that answers all questions and all things rather than believe in the limits of scientific knowledge rather negates your ire?:conf:

You don't know what I believe other than I believe in God,I have given no details of what my beliefs entail.

[Livia]

LeatherTrumpet snatching all these god botherers

Most unhelpful post of the thread so far.

Its my supposition and this is a forum but I dont intend to write a book, build a chapel/synagog and expect people to worship me regarding it. I also dont expect to open an LT viewpoint school nor enter politics (they did not like the school idea at the parents night so its a deffo no).

Oh and I will not be telling you that unless you hold my views you will burn in hell for eternity. :devil:


You're a sinful, Godless heathen. I like that about you.

[Crimson Dynamo]

I think it's a bit unfair to start calling people trolls for having a view that goes against the norm or that questions a persons belief, what's the point in discussing things on this forum if you can't speak your mind?...

Yes Kizzy thankyou :spin:

[Kizzy]

well, this was meant to be a lighthearted thread, I've never given anything up for lent previously, so it's not for any major religious beliefs, just that I had decided to go on a health kick, and the timing coincided.

Really wasn't anticipating people being jumped on for whatever beliefs they hold. :conf:

Kate! you are so naughty... stop being so controversial, that's it! you're going to bed with no tea tonight!!

[Kate!]

Kate! you are so naughty... stop being so controversial, that's it! you're going to bed with no tea tonight!!

:hugesmile: Bollocks to that, if I am abstaining from alcohol you aren't taking my food.....

https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQwf5Yse6HtRQM0trXxsFQaDNnw7o2tQ xmIFICqkfVOhC4RV4SQ

[Vanessa]

:laugh: Pope Francis!

[Jesus.]

:laugh: Pope Francis!

It's not.

[Vanessa]

It's not.

Oh, sorry. It's the other one. :joker:

[Jesus.]

Oh, sorry. It's the other one. :joker:

Correct. Pope Frank is the good one!

[Niamh.]

Oh, sorry. It's the other one. :joker:

Darth Sidious

[Livia]

Darth Sidious

Are you representing Vatican City at Eurovision again this year? I really hope so...

[Kate!]

:laugh: Pope Francis!

It's not.

Oh, sorry. It's the other one. :joker:

:hugesmile:

Ness.... lmao... you should know this :p

[Niamh.]

Are you representing Vatican City at Eurovision again this year? I really hope so...

:laugh:

I might do

[Livia]

:laugh:

I might do

I think you've got to be either Irish of Italian to truly rip the piss out of the Catholic church with style. Put your name down Niamh... I'm tingling with anticipation already.

[Crimson Dynamo]

Are you representing Vatican City at Eurovision again this year? I really hope so...

Ireland have announced their entry and I think its a runner..


jzYzVMcgWhg






its not olden, its golden:nono:

[Niamh.]

Ireland have announced their entry and I think its a runner..


jzYzVMcgWhg






its not olden, its golden:nono:

Better than this years entry for us tbh

[Kizzy]

Ireland have announced their entry and I think its a runner..


jzYzVMcgWhg






its not olden, its golden:nono:

Now there's something to truly :worship:

[Niamh.]

I think you've got to be either Irish of Italian to truly rip the piss out of the Catholic church with style. Put your name down Niamh... I'm tingling with anticipation already.

Ireland is always gone by the time I apply :bawling:

[Glenn.]

All this talk of religion is too much to deal with on a fine Tuesday afternoon.

[Crimson Dynamo]

All this talk of religion is too much to deal with on a fine Tuesday afternoon.

Its ruining pancake day for me if im honest. :fist: damn you gods

[Livia]

Ireland have announced their entry and I think its a runner..


its not olden, its golden:nono:


I hear that Ireland was going to enter with "I Can't Get No Contraception", but the Pope told them to pull out at the last minute.


Forgive me Niamh x

[Kazanne]

Oh, sorry. It's the other one. :joker:

:joker:bloody hell Vanessa the Italian getting the pope mixed up.lol.they'll have you're guts for garters,funny though.:hugesmile:

[Glenn.]

Its ruining pancake day for me if im honest. :fist: damn you gods

Omg I forgot it was pancake day :amazed:

[Niamh.]

I hear that Ireland was going to enter with "I Can't Get No Contraception", but the Pope told them to pull out at the last minute.


Forgive me Niamh x

ahahaha you should have saved that one for your.........entry (pardon the pun)

[Crimson Dynamo]

I heard that the Vatican were once again going to enter some choirboys for Eurovision

[Kizzy]

I heard that the Vatican were once again going to enter some choirboys for Eurovision

I think i'm going to hell for laughing at that.

[Kate!]

I hear that Ireland was going to enter with "I Can't Get No Contraception", but the Pope told them to pull out at the last minute.


Forgive me Niamh x

:hugesmile:

[Kate!]

I think i'm going to hell for laughing at that.

Me too :grin2:

[Kazanne]

Me too :grin2:

You two wont be laughing when you get to those pearly gates and you are redirected to leather trumpets fiery pit,:angel:

[Vanessa]

:joker:

[arista]

Ah yes, I should have put another option on the poll for other religions.


There is No God.

[Glenn.]

There is No God.

Something we agree on.

[Josy]

If you're not doing it in the name of religion you're not really doing it for 'lent' are you?

Well yes they are doing for lent because that's what they choose to do :umm2:

See Kates post below for an example.

well, this was meant to be a lighthearted thread, I've never given anything up for lent previously, so it's not for any major religious beliefs, just that I had decided to go on a health kick, and the timing coincided.

Really wasn't anticipating people being jumped on for whatever beliefs they hold. :conf:

I think it's a bit unfair to start calling people trolls for having a view that goes against the norm or that questions a persons belief, what's the point in discussing things on this forum if you can't speak your mind?...

I never called anyone a troll Kizzy I said I see some posts that could be described as trolling. Different things. And there is also a difference between questioning a person beliefs and outright mocking them.

[Kizzy]

Well yes they are doing for lent because that's what they choose to do :umm2:


Don't umm at me joz... if you don't want to eat sweets or whatever and you're not religious your on a diet, not taking part in any lenten sacrifice.
See Kates post below for an example.





I never called anyone a troll Kizzy I said I see some posts that could be described as trolling. Different things. And there is also a difference between questioning a person beliefs and outright mocking them.

Yes you did, and you've done it to me in the past too. It was very upsetting actually.

[Josy]

Yes you did, and you've done it to me in the past too. It was very upsetting actually.

Stop lying please it's very upsetting and since you completely ignored the other points in my post I will assume it was all a plan to make this discussion about you.

Here this might make you feel better :pat:

[Kizzy]

Stop lying please it's very upsetting and since you completely ignored the other points in my post I will assume it was all a plan to make this discussion about you.

Here this might make you feel better :pat:

Not to highlight the fact you insulted a member? and I'm not lying thankyou.
Anyway I don't want to disrupt kates thread so I'll leave it there.

[Josy]

Not to highlight the fact you insulted a member? and I'm not lying thankyou.
Anyway I don't want to disrupt kates thread so I'll leave it there.

I never insulted a member Kizzy but do keep trying..

[Me. I Am Salman]

Every religion has a list of so called fullfilled prophecies as its part of the shtick. To date none have ever cut the mustard, unless you have a specific one that you can illustrate?

you wrote this two minutes after I posted. you didn't even bother to research which just proves what I said earlier about you being ignorant of information. in response to this post, fulfilled predictions are just one factor of my belief of its authenticity. The Qur'an is the direct word of God unlike other religious books which have been altered throughout history by man. The Qur'an is written in such a way that no one in the past has been able to produce just ten surahs like it, and the Qur'an actually challenges people to do so. It has no contradictions or mistakes whatsoever. etc etc etc

I'm got going to reply to you anymore as a) you're clearly not taking any of my posts into account b) you're clearly just trying to provoke people c) I'm not a scholar who knows everything. so don't bother quoting this

[Jesus.]

you wrote this two minutes after I posted. you didn't even bother to research which just proves what I said earlier about you being ignorant of information. in response to this post, fulfilled predictions are just one factor of my belief of its authenticity. The Qur'an is the direct word of God unlike other religious books which have been altered throughout history by man. The Qur'an is written in such a way that no one in the past has been able to produce just ten surahs like it, and the Qur'an actually challenges people to do so. It has no contradictions or mistakes whatsoever. etc etc etc

I'm got going to reply to you anymore as a) you're clearly not taking any of my posts into account b) you're clearly just trying to provoke people. so don't bother quoting this

The qur'an doesn't have any errors in it?

[Me. I Am Salman]

The qur'an doesn't have any errors in it?

All alleged contradictions and errors have been cleared up and explained by scholars, the verses are usually misunderstood. Don't bring anything up with me because as I said I'm not a scholar who's well educated on these things

[Jesus.]

All alleged contradictions and errors have been cleared up and explained by scholars, the verses are usually misunderstood. Don't bring anything up with me because as I said I'm not a scholar

You base your whole life on a book that you say is without error, yet you have no interest in either finding out about the alleged errors, or understanding why they aren't errors at all?

Hey, if that's good for you then totally cool, but I don't get that. Have you actually read it from cover to cover and asked yourself any questions?

[Me. I Am Salman]

You base your whole life on a book that you say is without error, yet you have no interest in either finding out about the alleged errors, or understanding why they aren't errors at all?

Hey, if that's good for you then totally cool, but I don't get that. Have you actually read it from cover to cover and asked yourself any questions?

Of course I have every intention to study islam in more depth when I'm older. Muslims are encouraged to do so :)

[Jesus.]

Of course I have every intention to study islam in more depth when I'm older. Muslims are encouraged to do so :)

I couldn't follow a religion unless I understood what I'm supposed to be following, before I actually start following it.

I find that totally insane, but it's your life.

[Livia]

It always comes back to faith. If you have it, you can't explain it. If you don't have it, you can't understand it.

[Kazanne]

It always comes back to faith. If you have it, you can't explain it. If you don't have it, you can't understand it.

That's the top and tail of it Livia.

[chuff me dizzy]

I won't be giving up anything as I am an atheist..

Is giving something up for Lent a catholic practice? Or do Protestants do it too?

My late Mother in law (:angel::kiss: )Was a strict Catholic, and always gave stuff up for Lent, but shes the only person Ive ever known who does it, Im a staunch atheist so wouldnt dream of doing it ,Religion is the cause of too much evil stuff in this world and has a lot to answer for IMO

[Crimson Dynamo]

It always comes back to faith. If you have it, you can't explain it. If you don't have it, you can't understand it.


You would be as well writing "god works in mysterious ways" :joker:

[Livia]

You would be as well writing "god works in mysterious ways" :joker:

Still prayin' for you, Heathen.

[Kazanne]

My late Mother in law (:angel::kiss: )Was a strict Catholic, and always gave stuff up for Lent, but shes the only person Ive ever known who does it, Im a staunch atheist so wouldnt dream of doing it ,Religion is the cause of too much evil stuff in this world and has a lot to answer for IMO

I don't think it's religion at fault though Chuff,I believe it's the human race.

[Crimson Dynamo]

you wrote this two minutes after I posted. you didn't even bother to research which just proves what I said earlier about you being ignorant of information. in response to this post, fulfilled predictions are just one factor of my belief of its authenticity. The Qur'an is the direct word of God unlike other religious books which have been altered throughout history by man. The Qur'an is written in such a way that no one in the past has been able to produce just ten surahs like it, and the Qur'an actually challenges people to do so. It has no contradictions or mistakes whatsoever. etc etc etc

I'm got going to reply to you anymore as a) you're clearly not taking any of my posts into account b) you're clearly just trying to provoke people c) I'm not a scholar who knows everything. so don't bother quoting this

Funnily enough I did not go and research your unfounded claims via google as I rather hoped that you would explain them as you made them and its a forum an all.

But as you say, you are not really sure what its all about:think:

[Livia]

Hey... my Muslim friend has a right to his faith. No one else has to believe it.

[Z]

I couldn't follow a religion unless I understood what I'm supposed to be following, before I actually start following it.

I find that totally insane, but it's your life.

To be honest I feel the same way about IKEA flat pack furniture instructions but I soldier on with it regardless

[Niamh.]

To be honest I feel the same way about IKEA flat pack furniture instructions but I soldier on with it regardless

:laugh2:

[Livia]

To be honest I feel the same way about IKEA flat pack furniture instructions but I soldier on with it regardless

LOL...

[Kate!]

To be honest I feel the same way about IKEA flat pack furniture instructions but I soldier on with it regardless

:laugh3:

[Kazanne]

To be honest I feel the same way about IKEA flat pack furniture instructions but I soldier on with it regardless

:joker::joker:

[chuff me dizzy]

I don't think it's religion at fault though Chuff,I believe it's the human race.

Every chance, but behind most of the worlds wrongs is religion in one way or another,and the idiots who do evil in the name of their God

[Me. I Am Salman]

I couldn't follow a religion unless I understood what I'm supposed to be following, before I actually start following it.

I find that totally insane, but it's your life.

I do though? I know a great deal. It's just there's always more you can learn.
Let's end the discussion now, we're never gonna reach common ground on this :laugh:

Funnily enough I did not go and research your unfounded claims via google as I rather hoped that you would explain them as you made them and its a forum an all.

But as you say, you are not really sure what its all about:think:

The trolling is getting more and more tedious and desperate. I remember the photo you had on your Catweazel profile, you're literally an OAP.. is this really what you do with your time? How sad.

[anne666]

This ramadan I'll be fasting (no eating, drinking or even deeply inhaling the smell of food) from 4am to around 9pm, before going to the hot crowded mosque for a 1h 45m 'taraweeh' prayer (specific prayer during Ramadan) at 10pm, every single day. Muslim prayer is like this btw http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/2e/Salat_positions.jpg and in Taraweeh the prayer lasts for about 7 minutes, and we do 20 prayers in total. The Imaam leads the prayer and recites the Qur'an. Taraweeh prayer is so exhausting, you're legs ache. And we don't just do taraweeh prayer we have to do the usual daily 5 prayers too (one at sunrise, one at midday, one in the afternoon, one in sunset and one prayed in conjunction with taraweh) which you have to make an effort to go mosque each time to do. Women get it easy tbh they're not obliged to go to mosque so all of their prayers are shorter and from the comfort of their own home. In Ramadan you should also regularly read the Qur'an, and although masturbation is regarded as a sin anyway it completely breaks your fast during Ramadan so you absolutely cannot do it under any circumstances during that time. You can't have sex either when fasting and stuff like swearing makes your fast 'weak" so you should avoid that too. There's a load of other things you need to avoid too. This is all for one month straight

It probably sounds like torture to you all but most Muslims are really committed during the month so it soon enough just becomes routine, some even feel at peace and enjoy it. The hours spent fasting sound harsh but that's just because this particular Ramadan takes place in July where the day is much longer.. eventually Ramadan will be in the winter months again where the fast ends at around 4pm but there's a loooong way to go til that happens (to give you an idea of how long it takes, Ramadan 2006 began in late September. so it took eight years for it to get to early June, only like 2-3 months). Here's a link to the dates actually (scroll down) http://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/uk/ramadan-begins

I admit it's hard, but it goes pretty quick and I really love how you gather with all your extended family on loads of days to break fast, it's always fun

soz for the essay :elephant:

Thank you it was worth the effort IMO. It's fascinating to read about other faiths.

[Me. I Am Salman]

Thanks it was worth the effort IMO. Fascinating to read about other faiths.

No worries! thanks for taking the time to read it :)

[Kizzy]

To be honest I bet more people worship at the alter of IKEA on a sunday morning than any church :laugh:

[Vicky.]

You ever been to Church at Christmas Vicky? Easter and Christmas the places are heaving.

Not since my grandma dragged me when I was about 6 :laugh:

Churches might be busy, but in general these days xmas means gifts and family time, not church and jesus.

[GypsyGoth]

To be honest I feel the same way about IKEA flat pack furniture instructions but I soldier on with it regardless

:laugh2: :love:

[Ammi]

..Salman, that was a really interesting read..(wow, disciplined..)..but I can see how good that must make you feel as well and what a sense of well being it must give you...we have a copy of the Qur'an at school although it's a children's version so I'm not sure how that differs but I've been meaning to read it and I'll try to find time in the Easter break...

[Ammi]

..in reply to the OP, no I'm not giving anything up for lent..I'm not giving anything up just because I don't generally, not because of any religious reasons or lack of them, I just don't...

..I will say though that I know some people who have a faith and that faith does help them in times when they need it...that's sometimes interpreted by none believers as..'oh, so they're weak then..'...well no, actually they're not..they're strong enough to realise that if something you believe in/the good of it/what it stands for etc can make you a better person then none of us are above that...I also don't think that religion causes violence etc..it's people who use that religion as an excuse for their wrong doings to try and justify...

[Cherie]

Now I got to remember what I said I would give up for the next 40 days.

[lostalex]

I'm giving up halal and kosher food for lent.

[Kate!]

..in reply to the OP, no I'm not giving anything up for lent..I'm not giving anything up just because I don't generally, not because of any religious reasons or lack of them, I just don't...

..I will say though that I know some people who have a faith and that faith does help them in times when they need it...that's sometimes interpreted by none believers as..'oh, so they're weak then..'...well no, actually they're not..they're strong enough to realise that if something you believe in/the good of it/what it stands for etc can make you a better person then none of us are above that...I also don't think that religion causes violence etc..it's people who use that religion as an excuse for their wrong doings to try and justify...

Good post, sums it up nicely.

[Jesus.]

Smoking and masturbation. Finding it really tough though, because I'm a 20 a day man.






















And I smoke like a chimney.

[joeysteele]

..in reply to the OP, no I'm not giving anything up for lent..I'm not giving anything up just because I don't generally, not because of any religious reasons or lack of them, I just don't...

..I will say though that I know some people who have a faith and that faith does help them in times when they need it...that's sometimes interpreted by none believers as..'oh, so they're weak then..'...well no, actually they're not..they're strong enough to realise that if something you believe in/the good of it/what it stands for etc can make you a better person then none of us are above that...I also don't think that religion causes violence etc..it's people who use that religion as an excuse for their wrong doings to try and justify...

As is generally the case with you Ammi, a really strong and thought inspiring post.
Your last sentence is really spot on and a powerful point.

[lostalex]

get off the cross, we need the wood.

REw0jDiyGtU

[Crimson Dynamo]

..in reply to the OP, no I'm not giving anything up for lent..I'm not giving anything up just because I don't generally, not because of any religious reasons or lack of them, I just don't...

..I will say though that I know some people who have a faith and that faith does help them in times when they need it...that's sometimes interpreted by none believers as..'oh, so they're weak then..'...well no, actually they're not..they're strong enough to realise that if something you believe in/the good of it/what it stands for etc can make you a better person then none of us are above that...I also don't think that religion causes violence etc..it's people who use that religion as an excuse for their wrong doings to try and justify...

I take your well made point about religion does not cause violence its the people but sadly as violence can only be caused by people it does not add up. You could also say that drink does not cause violence, guns dont, knives dont, football does not, land rights does not etc.


Listen to any religious channel of your choice for an hour and you will soon hear a common phrase

"what this tells us, what Jesus, Allah etc is saying is" "what god is saying to us here" "what the bible/quran is telling us is"

Written literature by men being interpretated by men to suit agendas and justify means and that is the problem. Take any 1000 odd page book by any author and you can virtually bend it to justify any behavoir and that is the problem.

People over the ages learn that to become an expert in the said book will give them power, people will look up to them and the power soon corrupts and they find that they can use this power and knowledge to their advantage. Humans are not that evolved from base animals and everyone on earth seeks to feel important and to get on and make money and gain power like animals aim to climb up the pecking order at every turn.

Currently Christians and Muslims are using their book to subjugate homosexuals and women for example and muslims are using it to justify violence against who they see as infidels and so it goes on. and on and on.


As i have stated many times, no one cares what you believe or worship but keep it away from children and away from politics and life will get better. :spin::spin: