@ 05:05 - Correction: "The cross became a symbol of control" in 380 C.E. when Emperor Theodosius issued the Edict of Thessalonica. Christianity became the State Religion of Rome. All pagan religions were banned. It was the time of iconoclasm. The only other religion allowed was Judaism. It was the victory of St. Paul's mission to have the Gentiles who destroyed the Temple accept the mythology of the ancient Hebrews.
Thank you for pointing that out, and I appreciate the correction! You’re absolutely correct-the Edict of Thessalonica in 380 C.E., issued by Emperor Theodosius I, formally established Nicene Christianity as the official state religion of the Roman Empire, effectively banning pagan practices. This decree marked the point where Christianity began to function as a tool of state control, coinciding with iconoclasm and the active suppression of other religions. However, the Edict of Milan (313 C.E.) still holds relevance in this context. Issued by Constantine and Licinius, it granted religious tolerance throughout the empire, which allowed Christianity to flourish without the fear of persecution. This was a crucial turning point, as it provided Christianity with the freedom to grow, gain followers, and amass influence-ultimately paving the way for later decrees like the Edict of Thessalonica. For storytelling purposes, referencing the Edict of Milan helps illustrate the beginning of Christianity's journey from a persecuted faith to one entwined with state power. Although it didn’t make Christianity the state religion, it was a foundational step that set the stage for Theodosius’s later edict, which enforced Christianity as the empire’s only accepted faith.
@@davidsun3511 Maybe before throwing out videos, you should consider that mental health is far more nuanced than whether someone follows a religion or not. People can live fulfilled, balanced lives with or without religious belief. If you're relying on one video to push an entire narrative, you might want to rethink the 'open-minded' approach you're advocating.
@codeunknownyt Please forgive my rudeness, I should have phrased my words more humbly. However, in a world without religion or more specifically, in a world without God would not be much safer than it is today or in the past. Human beings would simply put themselves in the place of God. The example set by Constantine wouldn't be the first nor the last time, as even today powerful leaders set themselves up as head of religion or as head of the church instead of Christ, falling prey to self worship and self exaltation. Overall, people would still set up a religion or some sort of worship around themselves with our very flawed human nature, as we tend to do what we feel is right in our own eyes. We need to open our minds to the scriptures of God so as to understand a true discernment of what is right and wrong.
@@davidsun3511 First: we need to establish Jesus even takes an interest in much of church and theological, and policy based activity, actually. Or does communicate directly about such. Right back to Luther, Calvin, Augustine - or Torquemada. Barring that - some sort of outward fulfilment, of John 14:12, would seem appropriate? As credentials need outward proving - increasingly. Or just anyone with sufficient power (be it, of the Romans 13:1 variety, or not) and a power base... can proclaim themselves a senior Christian. Or with a sufficient 'body' behind them - be they schism prone, or not...? Please forgive... my, potential rudeness - ahem.
The example given on art in religion being given: Sistine Chapel, was not done in “good faith” but literally forced Michaelangello to do it. He himself was considered an atheist which is why he put a few hidden gems in the piece. The mostly anatomically accurate brain behind god for example. Little rebellions keep artists alive. That said, fun video. It’s strange to me how few people care about what’s true or real.
You’ve made a brilliant observation about the Sistine Chapel! You're absolutely right-Michelangelo was under immense pressure and wasn’t exactly doing it out of 'good faith.' The hidden gems, like the anatomical brain behind God, are a clever rebellion against the constraints he faced. Even so, it’s fascinating how the work, despite being forced, is still technically inspired by religion. After all, without that religious commission, the iconic art wouldn’t exist in the first place. So, in a way, it’s both an act of control and rebellion wrapped into one. Little rebellions do keep artists alive, and Michelangelo’s subtle defiance is proof that creativity finds a way, even under pressure. Glad you enjoyed the video! It is strange how few people care about what’s real or true-but that’s why discussions like this are so important. There’s always more to uncover for those who look beyond the surface
Faith is a tool, like a gun-it can be used to save you or kill you. If you don’t know what you want a gun for, don’t touch it, same goes for faith… You have a comforting voice, recommend keeping the background music lower and neutral as to not distract from the sound of your voice. Thx for the video!
Thanks, Frank! I love the analogy-faith really is a tool that can be used in so many different ways depending on how we approach it. I'm glad you found the video valuable, and I appreciate the feedback on the background music. I'll definitely keep that in mind for future videos to make sure the audio is as clear and engaging as possible. Thanks again for watching and sharing your thoughts! 😊
I have long been in the camp of religion as nefarious control, but one can also make an exceptional argument that it is a hidden form of extreme mental & emotional abuse that is broadly inflicted on the population, and particularly on the youth who have not yet learned to think critically. The myth of "Hell" is a particularly egregious and cruel form of mental/emotional abuse, especially when told to children to torment them into a lifetime of obedience & faith. Hell is one of the core biblical myths that is verifiably 100% mythical & complete fiction, unsupported in any way by the original texts. Monks in the 4th century drew inspiration from Plato's thoughts on the idea of an immortal/indestructible soul, and assumed not even God could destroy sinful souls, so they deliberately mistranslated Jesus' words about Gehenna into "Hell" and imagined the idea of a place of eternal punishment for 'bad' souls, all to add yet another layer of social control to manipulate believers: fear.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Terminator484! You've raised a powerful point about religion and its potential impact, especially on younger minds. The concept of Hell, as you mentioned, has indeed been a controversial one, often used throughout history to enforce control through fear. The mistranslation of "Gehenna" into the concept of "Hell" is a fascinating example of how religious texts can evolve and take on entirely different meanings depending on who interprets them and why. The emotional and psychological effects of these teachings, particularly on children who are still developing critical thinking skills, can be profound. It’s definitely an angle worth exploring when discussing how belief systems shape our mental and emotional frameworks. I appreciate your deep dive into the historical origins of Hell-something that’s often overlooked. Thanks again for contributing to the conversation. Your perspective is both thought-provoking and valuable!
Faith isn’t necessarily believing without good reason-it’s believing in something beyond the confines of physical evidence or what can be proven right now. In many cases, faith is built on personal experiences, cultural backgrounds, or spiritual insights, which can provide individuals with reasons that feel very valid to them, even if they’re not universally measurable or scientific. For many, faith is about trust-trusting in something greater, in ideals, or in outcomes that may not yet be clear. This isn’t the same as having no reason at all. It’s about believing in the possibility of things that can't always be measured by logic or empirical evidence, but still hold value and meaning for millions of people.
@@Rogue-nc3pl that's a weird response, especially when I've clearly pointed out that I chose not to be religious. Maybe you've not watched the video or something. In short, research = informed opinions.
@Rogue-nc3pl yes but you started with "you are" when I responded with a generalisation. Personally, I do not believe in what humanity says about God's etc. I have more of an empirical nature which often finds humanities religious teachings don't stand up well to scrutiny. Saying believing in imaginary things is quite a sweeping statement. It puts religious people in the same bracket as say Schizophrenics. Religion does deserve more respect than that. It's a far more nuanced topic to be brushed under the carpet in such a way.
It always was a tool of control, but as I'm getting older I'm more and more inclined to believe that dumb people (the majority) really need to be controlled in that way. They're too dumb to be moral on their own.
@@codeunknownyt No, I wasn't even aware of that. I was talking from my own personal experience. I've seen so many dumb people that really struggle with understanding basic morality. So much so that they really need to be scared with a punishment from a mystical being that's watching them all the time. That's not saying that smart people can't be immoral or evil. But dumb people in a group are much more powerful entity, just by the fact that they're in majority.
Plato's Noble Lie fully exposed. It's about control as none are real of the deity based ideologies. Buddhism is more like psychology in some ways and seems to reject a god.
You're spot on with the reference to Plato's Noble Lie-it's definitely been used throughout history as a means of control. The way Buddhism operates more as a philosophy or psychology, without necessarily focusing on a deity, definitely sets it apart from many other belief systems. It’s interesting how so many different ideologies have evolved, yet the thread of control seems to weave through so many of them. Thanks for your insight!
@@katherineg9396 Buddhism may indeed offer guidance on living a moral and mindful life, but it also contains key elements that define a religion. While Buddhism is sometimes perceived as a secular philosophy focused on personal development, this view doesn’t capture its full depth. Buddhism includes core beliefs in karma, samsara (the cycle of birth and rebirth), and nirvana. These are doctrinal concepts that involve metaphysical understandings of existence, rather than purely ethical guidelines. Additionally, Buddhism has established rituals, ceremonies, sacred texts, and religious symbols, as seen in Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana branches. Monastic orders, temples, meditation practices, and places of pilgrimage - like Bodh Gaya - highlight that it is indeed structured as a religion. It even has its own clergy (monks and nuns) who guide lay practitioners. Buddhism’s primary goal is not just to live a 'better' life but to transcend the cycle of suffering and attain enlightenment, a spiritual aspiration that mirrors the salvation or liberation aims in other religions. So, while it might be less theistic than other faiths, it has the defining characteristics of religion. To say it’s not a religion risks overlooking the spiritual, ritualistic, and community aspects that give Buddhism a religious foundation.
Spot on, James! Religion has undoubtedly given countless people hope and purpose throughout history, but like anything powerful, it’s open to manipulation. That’s a big part of what we’re diving into here-how something so personal and sacred can be used for such different ends. It’s brilliant having viewers like you who can see both sides. What are your thoughts on where the line should be drawn between faith as personal guidance versus faith as a tool for control?
I´ve watched the whole video now and I appreciate your honesty. We all have different experiences from religion. Of course religion can be abused for power and selfish ambitions, but so can systems like Atheism in Communism for example. There you don´t believe in a God and therefore believe that you can do whatever you want because you don´t believe in a God Who is perfectly just Who will judge the evil that is commited, whether by religious people or non-religious. Of course two wrongs don´t make one right, we have to acknowledge that virtually any system can be abused. I personally started to really believe after critical thinking, asking questions, doing research about the Bible and other religions, about Atheism and such, about questions of life. I find that the Bible gives the best answers, perhaps not all we want, but those we need. I think it´s important to judge a religion not by how those who claim that they are following that religion live, but rather what the source of that faith is; who is the Author and what did he teach? How did he live? What was his standard? And so on. When we compare how many who call themselves Christians have behaved during the ages, we can see at their fruit who really did follow Jesus and on the other hand those who believed that they believed. It´s not enough to say, I´m a disciple of Jesus Christ, if I´m not following His example not by force but by loving Him Who first loved me. I hope you understand. Of course it´s important to be open minded and have critical thinking. I agree! But I don´t think it´s that simple to say that we should get rid of religion even though there are some positive features with it. Many are losing their moral compass. Was it not Nietzsche who said that if God doesn´t exist everything is permitted. Why should we even care for each other if there is no God, no moral standard that applies to all, but that we can choose our own truth and way that may hurt other people, such as Communism? I hope you understand that I´m not writing this with an angry attitude, but rather a caring one. Truth stands the test.
First of all, thank you so much for taking the time to write such an in-depth and thoughtful comment. I really appreciate it, and it's clear that you're approaching this discussion with sincerity and care, which I respect deeply. I completely agree that it's important to question things, critically think, and approach these topics with an open mind. Here on Code Unknown, we strive to create a space where everyone can engage in these kinds of conversations without fear of judgement, regardless of their beliefs. The intention of the video wasn't to dismiss religion entirely but to examine how, throughout history, it has sometimes been used as a tool of control. That doesn't take away from the positive experiences many people have through their faith. It's a complex topic, and I value hearing perspectives like yours, which add so much depth to the discussion. Let's keep the conversation going-this is a safe place for everyone to explore these ideas together.
He paints the wayside flower, He lights the evening star, The wind and waves obey him, By him the birds are fed, Much more to us, his children, He gives our daily bread. 😃
He bakes the morning toast, He butters it just right, He brews the tea we’re sipping, And pours it with delight. The wind and waves might listen, But so does my big head, I’m mostly here for breakfast- Bring on that daily bread! 😄
Imma be real honest with you, as a Christian, I think it's about faith, but people exploiting that faith for control and personal gain has been nothing new-the New Testament talked about, and condemned, these people multiple times. And in my opinion, I also find it best to understand and respect other's beliefs, even if you don't agree with them.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts! I completely agree-faith can be a powerful, personal thing, but history shows us how often it's been exploited for control and personal gain. It's refreshing to hear your perspective as a Christian who values respect for others' beliefs. I think discussions like this, where we can acknowledge both the beauty and the flaws in how faith has been used, are so important for understanding each other better. Respect and open-mindedness go a long way in these conversations.
A morality-ridden world will not prevent atrocities: For þe most easily offended, like weak people, will say þat þeir atrocities are justified because oþers repeatedly violated þeir entitled list of moral conduct. Þe perpetually enraged control via morals, morals are values of what feels right in þe moment, þe gutt feeling þat can be deceived. Humans are not equal: þey don't feel þe same about certain behaviours. Religions use good-feeling memes to conquer þe hearts of people and are not to be judged based on þe self-investigation-like scriptures þey offer, but on þe results þey produce in þe real world. Religions have an implicit þreat to each non-believers þat goes as follows "If you do not feel like us, you are bad" It all comes down to feelings.
What everyone always seems to overlook in this discussion is the most common denominator amongst all religions. And that's humans. Erase religion from everyone existing and I wholeheartedly believe we'd be seeing this same exact video only it'd be a critique on politics or militarism or we'd have created some other means of asserting control over a population. Either with ideas like religion or just old-fashioned brute force. While religion can, has, and continues to be a useful tool for control it's not the only one. And the notion of one God, one set of rules, no questions fails to take into account the fact sects exist amongst all the monotheistic religions today. Each because they believed one part plays a higher part of importance that the current systems are lacking in or from questioning the importance of a part that is currently focused on. Point is humans suck, a lot don't, but too many do. And I doubt we'd be any better off without religion than with it.
Apologies that your comment got held up! I’ve got certain words flagged to keep discussions civil, so thanks for your patience. You’ve hit the nail on the head, though. The heart of all control mechanisms-whether religion, politics, or military power-is human nature, with its drive to influence and maintain order. Religion is indeed one powerful tool, but it’s far from the only one. If religion disappeared tomorrow, history suggests we’d likely invent another ideology or structure to assert control. Your point about sects in monotheistic religions is especially insightful. It’s almost as if humans need to question and reinterpret things, even within unified belief systems, to feel ownership or justify their actions. Ultimately, whether it’s faith, political allegiance, or military might, divisions and hierarchies would still emerge.
God, according to the bible, committed genocide, adultery, approves of slavery, and mutilation of babies. Am I wrong? God created the devil. He could remove the devil, yes or no? The devil temps people and punishes bad people. Am I missing something?
A person may think their own ways are right, but the LORD weighs the heart Human beings will flout the morals and ethics they created at their own convenience. However, when you are accountable to God you have no excuses or reasons to get away with your sins and transgressions.
I get where you're coming from, but I believe people can live morally and ethically without needing the framework of religion. Accountability comes from understanding the consequences of our actions, not just because we’re told by a higher power. It’s about being good to one another because it's right, not out of fear. Respect for all beliefs is key, but let’s not forget that humans can be good without needing religion as the driving force.
@ 05:05 - Correction: "The cross became a symbol of control" in 380 C.E. when Emperor Theodosius issued the Edict of Thessalonica. Christianity became the State Religion of Rome. All pagan religions were banned. It was the time of iconoclasm. The only other religion allowed was Judaism. It was the victory of St. Paul's mission to have the Gentiles who destroyed the Temple accept the mythology of the ancient Hebrews.
Thank you for pointing that out, and I appreciate the correction! You’re absolutely correct-the Edict of Thessalonica in 380 C.E., issued by Emperor Theodosius I, formally established Nicene Christianity as the official state religion of the Roman Empire, effectively banning pagan practices. This decree marked the point where Christianity began to function as a tool of state control, coinciding with iconoclasm and the active suppression of other religions.
However, the Edict of Milan (313 C.E.) still holds relevance in this context. Issued by Constantine and Licinius, it granted religious tolerance throughout the empire, which allowed Christianity to flourish without the fear of persecution. This was a crucial turning point, as it provided Christianity with the freedom to grow, gain followers, and amass influence-ultimately paving the way for later decrees like the Edict of Thessalonica.
For storytelling purposes, referencing the Edict of Milan helps illustrate the beginning of Christianity's journey from a persecuted faith to one entwined with state power. Although it didn’t make Christianity the state religion, it was a foundational step that set the stage for Theodosius’s later edict, which enforced Christianity as the empire’s only accepted faith.
Ive always thought the world would be a lot safer without religion
@@francescachorley8237 it certainly would be a world where blood isn't shed in the defence of a God. Which is absolutely bonkers in 2024.
Perhaps you should watch the video made by Academy of Ideas on "Why the lack of religion breeds mental illness".
@@davidsun3511 Maybe before throwing out videos, you should consider that mental health is far more nuanced than whether someone follows a religion or not. People can live fulfilled, balanced lives with or without religious belief. If you're relying on one video to push an entire narrative, you might want to rethink the 'open-minded' approach you're advocating.
@codeunknownyt Please forgive my rudeness, I should have phrased my words more humbly. However, in a world without religion or more specifically, in a world without God would not be much safer than it is today or in the past. Human beings would simply put themselves in the place of God. The example set by Constantine wouldn't be the first nor the last time, as even today powerful leaders set themselves up as head of religion or as head of the church instead of Christ, falling prey to self worship and self exaltation. Overall, people would still set up a religion or some sort of worship around themselves with our very flawed human nature, as we tend to do what we feel is right in our own eyes. We need to open our minds to the scriptures of God so as to understand a true discernment of what is right and wrong.
@@davidsun3511 First: we need to establish Jesus even takes an interest in much of church and theological, and policy based activity, actually. Or does communicate directly about such.
Right back to Luther, Calvin, Augustine - or Torquemada.
Barring that - some sort of outward fulfilment, of John 14:12, would seem appropriate?
As credentials need outward proving - increasingly.
Or just anyone with sufficient power (be it, of the Romans 13:1 variety, or not) and a power base... can proclaim themselves a senior Christian.
Or with a sufficient 'body' behind them - be they schism prone, or not...?
Please forgive... my, potential rudeness - ahem.
The example given on art in religion being given: Sistine Chapel, was not done in “good faith” but literally forced Michaelangello to do it. He himself was considered an atheist which is why he put a few hidden gems in the piece. The mostly anatomically accurate brain behind god for example.
Little rebellions keep artists alive.
That said, fun video. It’s strange to me how few people care about what’s true or real.
You’ve made a brilliant observation about the Sistine Chapel! You're absolutely right-Michelangelo was under immense pressure and wasn’t exactly doing it out of 'good faith.' The hidden gems, like the anatomical brain behind God, are a clever rebellion against the constraints he faced. Even so, it’s fascinating how the work, despite being forced, is still technically inspired by religion. After all, without that religious commission, the iconic art wouldn’t exist in the first place. So, in a way, it’s both an act of control and rebellion wrapped into one.
Little rebellions do keep artists alive, and Michelangelo’s subtle defiance is proof that creativity finds a way, even under pressure.
Glad you enjoyed the video! It is strange how few people care about what’s real or true-but that’s why discussions like this are so important. There’s always more to uncover for those who look beyond the surface
"Religion Poisons Everything" - Christopher Hitchens
Bro was moral relativist💀
I endorse this message
@@oscarcorbiere2899 if you bend ✝️ aren't Christian faith da new nazis??
@@mistylover7398I guess we’ll see… they literally have control of the USA
@@mistylover7398 yes most definitely
Great Video my friend and very thought-provoking!
Thank you buddy! out of interest, what was your verdict? lol
Faith is a tool, like a gun-it can be used to save you or kill you. If you don’t know what you want a gun for, don’t touch it, same goes for faith… You have a comforting voice, recommend keeping the background music lower and neutral as to not distract from the sound of your voice. Thx for the video!
Thanks, Frank! I love the analogy-faith really is a tool that can be used in so many different ways depending on how we approach it. I'm glad you found the video valuable, and I appreciate the feedback on the background music. I'll definitely keep that in mind for future videos to make sure the audio is as clear and engaging as possible. Thanks again for watching and sharing your thoughts! 😊
Why does da ✝️ look like a puppet master wood controller?? Or if you bend it it looks like nazi symbol?? Fear and take over da world.
I have long been in the camp of religion as nefarious control, but one can also make an exceptional argument that it is a hidden form of extreme mental & emotional abuse that is broadly inflicted on the population, and particularly on the youth who have not yet learned to think critically.
The myth of "Hell" is a particularly egregious and cruel form of mental/emotional abuse, especially when told to children to torment them into a lifetime of obedience & faith. Hell is one of the core biblical myths that is verifiably 100% mythical & complete fiction, unsupported in any way by the original texts. Monks in the 4th century drew inspiration from Plato's thoughts on the idea of an immortal/indestructible soul, and assumed not even God could destroy sinful souls, so they deliberately mistranslated Jesus' words about Gehenna into "Hell" and imagined the idea of a place of eternal punishment for 'bad' souls, all to add yet another layer of social control to manipulate believers: fear.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Terminator484! You've raised a powerful point about religion and its potential impact, especially on younger minds. The concept of Hell, as you mentioned, has indeed been a controversial one, often used throughout history to enforce control through fear. The mistranslation of "Gehenna" into the concept of "Hell" is a fascinating example of how religious texts can evolve and take on entirely different meanings depending on who interprets them and why.
The emotional and psychological effects of these teachings, particularly on children who are still developing critical thinking skills, can be profound. It’s definitely an angle worth exploring when discussing how belief systems shape our mental and emotional frameworks. I appreciate your deep dive into the historical origins of Hell-something that’s often overlooked.
Thanks again for contributing to the conversation. Your perspective is both thought-provoking and valuable!
Faith is believing without good reason.
Faith isn’t necessarily believing without good reason-it’s believing in something beyond the confines of physical evidence or what can be proven right now. In many cases, faith is built on personal experiences, cultural backgrounds, or spiritual insights, which can provide individuals with reasons that feel very valid to them, even if they’re not universally measurable or scientific.
For many, faith is about trust-trusting in something greater, in ideals, or in outcomes that may not yet be clear. This isn’t the same as having no reason at all. It’s about believing in the possibility of things that can't always be measured by logic or empirical evidence, but still hold value and meaning for millions of people.
@codeunknownyt in short you are believing in imaginary things.
@@Rogue-nc3pl that's a weird response, especially when I've clearly pointed out that I chose not to be religious. Maybe you've not watched the video or something. In short, research = informed opinions.
@codeunknownyt I am responding to the "physical evidence" or without it. Therefore, it is imaginary.
@Rogue-nc3pl yes but you started with "you are" when I responded with a generalisation.
Personally, I do not believe in what humanity says about God's etc. I have more of an empirical nature which often finds humanities religious teachings don't stand up well to scrutiny.
Saying believing in imaginary things is quite a sweeping statement. It puts religious people in the same bracket as say Schizophrenics. Religion does deserve more respect than that. It's a far more nuanced topic to be brushed under the carpet in such a way.
It always was a tool of control, but as I'm getting older I'm more and more inclined to believe that dumb people (the majority) really need to be controlled in that way. They're too dumb to be moral on their own.
lol are you working off the Tommy Lee Jones philosphy there? "A person is smart, people are dumb, dangerous animals and you know it" lol
@@codeunknownyt No, I wasn't even aware of that. I was talking from my own personal experience. I've seen so many dumb people that really struggle with understanding basic morality. So much so that they really need to be scared with a punishment from a mystical being that's watching them all the time. That's not saying that smart people can't be immoral or evil. But dumb people in a group are much more powerful entity, just by the fact that they're in majority.
Izn't gawd actually EVIL and new Hitler?? Obey or die??
Plato's Noble Lie fully exposed. It's about control as none are real of the deity based ideologies. Buddhism is more like psychology in some ways and seems to reject a god.
You're spot on with the reference to Plato's Noble Lie-it's definitely been used throughout history as a means of control. The way Buddhism operates more as a philosophy or psychology, without necessarily focusing on a deity, definitely sets it apart from many other belief systems. It’s interesting how so many different ideologies have evolved, yet the thread of control seems to weave through so many of them. Thanks for your insight!
Buddhism is more of a way to live your life. It is not a religion.
@@katherineg9396 Buddhism may indeed offer guidance on living a moral and mindful life, but it also contains key elements that define a religion. While Buddhism is sometimes perceived as a secular philosophy focused on personal development, this view doesn’t capture its full depth. Buddhism includes core beliefs in karma, samsara (the cycle of birth and rebirth), and nirvana. These are doctrinal concepts that involve metaphysical understandings of existence, rather than purely ethical guidelines.
Additionally, Buddhism has established rituals, ceremonies, sacred texts, and religious symbols, as seen in Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana branches. Monastic orders, temples, meditation practices, and places of pilgrimage - like Bodh Gaya - highlight that it is indeed structured as a religion. It even has its own clergy (monks and nuns) who guide lay practitioners.
Buddhism’s primary goal is not just to live a 'better' life but to transcend the cycle of suffering and attain enlightenment, a spiritual aspiration that mirrors the salvation or liberation aims in other religions. So, while it might be less theistic than other faiths, it has the defining characteristics of religion. To say it’s not a religion risks overlooking the spiritual, ritualistic, and community aspects that give Buddhism a religious foundation.
Religion is designed to give hope and purpose to human life. It can also be manipulated to gain control.
Spot on, James! Religion has undoubtedly given countless people hope and purpose throughout history, but like anything powerful, it’s open to manipulation. That’s a big part of what we’re diving into here-how something so personal and sacred can be used for such different ends. It’s brilliant having viewers like you who can see both sides. What are your thoughts on where the line should be drawn between faith as personal guidance versus faith as a tool for control?
I´ve watched the whole video now and I appreciate your honesty. We all have different experiences from religion. Of course religion can be abused for power and selfish ambitions, but so can systems like Atheism in Communism for example. There you don´t believe in a God and therefore believe that you can do whatever you want because you don´t believe in a God Who is perfectly just Who will judge the evil that is commited, whether by religious people or non-religious. Of course two wrongs don´t make one right, we have to acknowledge that virtually any system can be abused. I personally started to really believe after critical thinking, asking questions, doing research about the Bible and other religions, about Atheism and such, about questions of life. I find that the Bible gives the best answers, perhaps not all we want, but those we need. I think it´s important to judge a religion not by how those who claim that they are following that religion live, but rather what the source of that faith is; who is the Author and what did he teach? How did he live? What was his standard? And so on. When we compare how many who call themselves Christians have behaved during the ages, we can see at their fruit who really did follow Jesus and on the other hand those who believed that they believed. It´s not enough to say, I´m a disciple of Jesus Christ, if I´m not following His example not by force but by loving Him Who first loved me. I hope you understand. Of course it´s important to be open minded and have critical thinking. I agree! But I don´t think it´s that simple to say that we should get rid of religion even though there are some positive features with it. Many are losing their moral compass. Was it not Nietzsche who said that if God doesn´t exist everything is permitted. Why should we even care for each other if there is no God, no moral standard that applies to all, but that we can choose our own truth and way that may hurt other people, such as Communism? I hope you understand that I´m not writing this with an angry attitude, but rather a caring one. Truth stands the test.
First of all, thank you so much for taking the time to write such an in-depth and thoughtful comment. I really appreciate it, and it's clear that you're approaching this discussion with sincerity and care, which I respect deeply.
I completely agree that it's important to question things, critically think, and approach these topics with an open mind. Here on Code Unknown, we strive to create a space where everyone can engage in these kinds of conversations without fear of judgement, regardless of their beliefs.
The intention of the video wasn't to dismiss religion entirely but to examine how, throughout history, it has sometimes been used as a tool of control. That doesn't take away from the positive experiences many people have through their faith. It's a complex topic, and I value hearing perspectives like yours, which add so much depth to the discussion.
Let's keep the conversation going-this is a safe place for everyone to explore these ideas together.
The very fact that entire nations bacame christian means jesus was wrong.
He paints the wayside flower,
He lights the evening star,
The wind and waves obey him,
By him the birds are fed,
Much more to us, his children,
He gives our daily bread. 😃
He bakes the morning toast,
He butters it just right,
He brews the tea we’re sipping,
And pours it with delight.
The wind and waves might listen,
But so does my big head,
I’m mostly here for breakfast-
Bring on that daily bread! 😄
Imma be real honest with you, as a Christian, I think it's about faith, but people exploiting that faith for control and personal gain has been nothing new-the New Testament talked about, and condemned, these people multiple times. And in my opinion, I also find it best to understand and respect other's beliefs, even if you don't agree with them.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts! I completely agree-faith can be a powerful, personal thing, but history shows us how often it's been exploited for control and personal gain. It's refreshing to hear your perspective as a Christian who values respect for others' beliefs. I think discussions like this, where we can acknowledge both the beauty and the flaws in how faith has been used, are so important for understanding each other better. Respect and open-mindedness go a long way in these conversations.
@@codeunknownyt thanks good sir
Religion had a place in the evolution of human beings. It held societies together. It’s time to evolve without it.
A morality-ridden world will not prevent atrocities:
For þe most easily offended, like weak people, will say þat þeir atrocities are justified because oþers repeatedly violated þeir entitled list of moral conduct.
Þe perpetually enraged control via morals, morals are values of what feels right in þe moment, þe gutt feeling þat can be deceived.
Humans are not equal: þey don't feel þe same about certain behaviours.
Religions use good-feeling memes to conquer þe hearts of people and are not to be judged based on þe self-investigation-like scriptures þey offer, but on þe results þey produce in þe real world.
Religions have an implicit þreat to each non-believers þat goes as follows
"If you do not feel like us, you are bad"
It all comes down to feelings.
What everyone always seems to overlook in this discussion is the most common denominator amongst all religions. And that's humans. Erase religion from everyone existing and I wholeheartedly believe we'd be seeing this same exact video only it'd be a critique on politics or militarism or we'd have created some other means of asserting control over a population. Either with ideas like religion or just old-fashioned brute force. While religion can, has, and continues to be a useful tool for control it's not the only one. And the notion of one God, one set of rules, no questions fails to take into account the fact sects exist amongst all the monotheistic religions today. Each because they believed one part plays a higher part of importance that the current systems are lacking in or from questioning the importance of a part that is currently focused on. Point is humans suck, a lot don't, but too many do. And I doubt we'd be any better off without religion than with it.
Apologies that your comment got held up! I’ve got certain words flagged to keep discussions civil, so thanks for your patience.
You’ve hit the nail on the head, though. The heart of all control mechanisms-whether religion, politics, or military power-is human nature, with its drive to influence and maintain order. Religion is indeed one powerful tool, but it’s far from the only one. If religion disappeared tomorrow, history suggests we’d likely invent another ideology or structure to assert control.
Your point about sects in monotheistic religions is especially insightful. It’s almost as if humans need to question and reinterpret things, even within unified belief systems, to feel ownership or justify their actions. Ultimately, whether it’s faith, political allegiance, or military might, divisions and hierarchies would still emerge.
Sounds like that girl was a narcissist.
God is good and the devil is evil
@@PaulYates-nf7vx those are the prevailing theories
@@codeunknownyt ok
God, according to the bible, committed genocide, adultery, approves of slavery, and mutilation of babies.
Am I wrong?
God created the devil.
He could remove the devil, yes or no?
The devil temps people and punishes bad people. Am I missing something?
A person may think their own ways are right, but the LORD weighs the heart
Human beings will flout the morals and ethics they created at their own convenience. However, when you are accountable to God you have no excuses or reasons to get away with your sins and transgressions.
I get where you're coming from, but I believe people can live morally and ethically without needing the framework of religion. Accountability comes from understanding the consequences of our actions, not just because we’re told by a higher power. It’s about being good to one another because it's right, not out of fear. Respect for all beliefs is key, but let’s not forget that humans can be good without needing religion as the driving force.
2000 reddit called
@@Noxictyz awesome.... did it leave a message?