FormerSensei

I am a Catholic. I understand that many aspects of the culture in martial arts deal with Eastern Religions. I respect that. However, does it make me any less of a martial artists if I don't accept those beliefs? Of course I would always respect these beliefs because religious freedom is what I love about being an American.

Please, I don't want to make this an attack religion thread, so please, let's not go there.

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Dim Wit Moc

I am a born again Christian type (no, I am not a Catholic basher), and I have no problem with the Eastern religions, because I view them as philosophies, with many good things to teach. I think some of the "gods" of these religions had nothing to do with the original founders ideas, but with governments who wanted to make gods for control of the people. As far as living a good life, they have good teachings. I think bowing in a traditional dojo has more to do with respect than religion. I think if Buddha knew people were worshipping him, he would turn over in his grave.

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FormerSensei

Thank you to both of you. When I was studying Shaolin Goju years ago, I hadn't really gotten close to Jesus or in touch with my faith yet, so I didn't mind some of the religious stuff.

I have absolutely no problem with bowing and showing respect because that is a cultural aspect. I think it would be nice if we bowed to each other from time to time.

Thanks again, my friends.

Kris

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Dim Wit Moc

You are welcome. Jesus said that if a man lacked a sword, he should go out and buy one. He didn't mean we should cut people's head off I they didn't accept Christ, but that protecting ourselves against wild animals or people who attack us is not forbidden.

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Hikage

Not to mention that Peter cut off the ear of the high priest's servant on the night when he was jailed. If Jesus didn't want these guys to be able to fight back, would he have allowed Peter to carry a sword?

I have myself recently underwent much of the same self-analasys. I grabbed one of our pastors and I grilled him, and I felt much better after that. Not that I'm insisting that you believe all that you're told about the Eastern philo's, but I've found that much of what many sensei will teach is perfectly acceptable by a Christian. That being said, be sure to test everything against scripture because New Age religions are nothing more than Eastern Religions "discovered", re-birthed by, and adapted for Americans looking for a change.

-Hikage

PS> If you have something more specific that you're not too sure about, I'd love to give you my spin on it.

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Dim Wit Moc

Jesus scolded Peter for his actions because He was destined to die on the cross for our sins. He did say that people who live by the sword will die by the sword. I personally believe there is a distinction in living by the sword and being prepared to defend ourselves. The person who lives by the sword is anxious to slash his way through life. The person who uses weapons or martial arts as a last resort is not really living by the sword. Although I can respect a pacifist, I could never be one. I respect Aikido greatly, and although it isn't really my martial art, I try to practice the basic tenets of using physical force as a last resort.

I agree there could be dangers in Eastern religions, if there is worship of anyone but the true God. But if they are considered philosophies, then some of the teachings can be very good. They are not a substitute for Christ.

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Hikage

DWM,

I don't think I could possibly agree with you more. Perhaps I can expound on what you are saying by defining what worship of anyone but the true God is. Many of us would think that it would mean placing items upon an altar and actively praying to "kahoona" or whomever. This is not the case. Anything that takes more attention and more respect in our hearts than God is recieving worship. The most common in American culture has to be money. A rich young ruler came to Christ and asked Him what he needed to do in order to follow him. He replied (not quoting) "Sell all your possessions." because He knew that there was the one thing the young ruler would always place before God and it was his money. He is in no way implying that we should all be poor. Duh. Rather, Christ, in his infinite wisdom, was able to identify the one thing that would always seperate this ruler from God.

-Hikage

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Dim Wit Moc

Hikage: Your excellent thoughts were much appreciated.

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Tom Yum

I like the stories of King Solomon myself. Thank you for sharing.

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osopardo

And it's certainly healthier than batter fried.

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Le Bear Extraordinaire!
Mike Brewer's 2008 Athleticon Challenge!!!
Pushups Completed: 5 1/2
Situps Completed: Does using my hands count?

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shuyun

All truth is of God.

When there are beliefs which do not conform with biblical beliefs then do not follow those.

For as long as you bow to no other God (literally and figuratively) in your practice of the martial arts then eastern belief (not religion) is perfectly alright.

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I make it a point to stick around with people smarter than myself. If I learn just 10% of all they know in their fields of expertise I end up becoming smarter than most people.

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