The topic of Religion and cosmology is interesting Akenu. Thank you for posting.
I think that spiritual/mythic interpretations of the heavens gave us the mythologies and superstitions we commonly associated with ancient cosmology. This transitioned into the science of astronomy as scientific observations began replacing older interpretations of the heavens. Those ancient beliefs were still based on observation though. They just pegged their observations onto existing cultural beliefs so we got all these different mythic cosmologies I guess. It seems though that whether the cosmological model is heliocentric or geocentric really comes down to how accurately you can observe external phenomena and we know that even primitive civilizations where capable of very accurate astronomical observations and calculations. However, from the perspective of the average man... well doesn't everything seem to revolve around him lol
Ultimately when discussing religion you are discussing belief. Realistically you can believe anything. This is fine until believe is accepted as truth. That is called delusion.
I agree with you Akenu in that religion is probably as old as humanity itself. That seems pretty realistic. Yes Abrahamic religions have been around a long time - they are not the only religions on the block. All religions have the same essential fault of being dualistic in some sense. I am here, big boss is out there, he's on my side, I do what the rules say and all is well with the world. I don't personally buy any of the creation myths presented by religions these days. I used to but now my mind screams bullshit every time I hear it.
Some thoughts of mine on religious violence - I feel you are right in that humans are violent. When you watch the news and see trucks plowing into people or people shooting and blowing one another up - this is direct proof that the human mind - irrespective of race, religion or historical context - is capable of committing acts pf shocking brutality. History hasn't changed that. The ignorant human mind is the source of all the evils in the world. Pure and simple. Religion is a product of the mind Akenu. Yes it is culturally and historically specific - but it is still a product of the same human mind as you and me and capable of the same atrocities. There is no separation of the two, and some religions are more peaceful that others Akenu - that's a fact.
Deities - not a practicing occultist so can not really offer anything here. Your explanation of egregores is probably on the mark and really deserves its own thread. Have you read Inside a Magical Lodge by John Michael Greer? He does cover that topic under lodge consecration. Interesting stuff. A human made god would have human imperfections wouldn't it? Sounds more like collective subconscious.
Where there is life there is death. Man fears death because it highlights the universal truth of impermanence and the ephemeral nature of the world, and secondly because it directly undermines the delusion of a permanent self or sense of 'I' which is the root cause of mans suffering - maintaining a delusion like that in the face of something as profoundly universal and indiscriminate as death - taking King and commoner alike - is enough to make anyone neurotic don't you think?
I like astrology. I like old astrology. I think that the heavens have subtle effects on the earth and its inhabitants. You only have to watch the moon move the ocean each tide to see that so I think there is something scientific there. I don't really believe astrologers though.
I agree Akenu - drop the superstitions and look directly into the mind - that is were the answer lies
Nice article.
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