Reply #19: Belief in God isn't a tribe [View All]

[pbg]

Nor is atheism.

Belief in God isn't necessary to start wars--just 'us' versus 'them.'

You've just illustrated a sad truth: the irresistible impulse of humanity to look at the folks from the next village as the enemy. No supernatural stuff necessary.

Create an enemy. Turn them into a tribe. Tar them with a bloody brush because they belong to a group--somehow.

I'm not a Christian apologist. I'm a Socratic in that i believe that admitting my ignorance is the beginning of wisdom.

But I will point out that the quote from Matthew can be--and has been--interpreted as a refutation of tribal and family blood-ties--those same ties that have created vendettas and feuds all through human history. Others have interpreted it differently, of course--but to some, that verse says 'don't listen to your family when they say that 'family honor', 'family tradition', and 'your position' come first. Truth cuts through all these things.' "peace" can mean 'the established order and the structure of society.' It relates to Jesus also saying 'give up all that thou hast and follow me.'

If your truth is atheism, it's a sword between you and your family, isn't it?

I stand by my observation on Cheney. He doesn't act like he thinks God is going to forgive him. He just takes it.