Leah
   (veteran poster)
   04/10/01 01:35 AM
   Re: Religion and empowerment [re: Ramessu]
   Hotep Again ...Again


   > if given the assumption that the religion encourages independent
   > thought.

   Independent of what? Does religion encourage independent thought and
   opinions? Should it?

   > Now if you have a religion where they tell you everything, and this
   > is just the way things are done. Then no because all your
   > actions/reactions are regurgitated from your enforced expectations.

   Agreed. And that would limit ones real personal understanding and
   encounter with the divine as well as likely their quality of life!
   Adults are 100% responsible for their lives and choices. Any religion
   that does not encourage responsibility is , well IMNSHO irresponsible.

   > While it is not the religions responsibility to empower anyone. It
   > is their responsibility to keep knowledge, and the hope of the people
   > alive.

   Ahh Knowledge of what? I think that is the key. Religions present
   folks with an understanding of their place in the bigger picture. That
   IS and Should be empowering No?

   Of course if information is treated like a scare commodity that is the
   province of only a few people are disempowered.
   I say religion IS about empowerment because Knowledge of the Truth
   empowers individuals and enables them to live well
   Senebty!
   Leah