Is being religious a sign of strength or weakness?

[loverofhumanity]

Is being religious a sign of strength or weakness? (talking about an individual, not the society)

To me to be religious means to have a good character, to be honest and trustworthy, patient, tolerant always willing to forgive others and look at the good in them. Not to fault find or backbite, to be kind, generous loving and caring. To put others before oneself. To be sacrificing. To be humble and just and fair. Not to discriminate or hurt others. To be at peace with all races, religions and nationalities.

So if one is doing all these things or trying to would that be weakness or strength of character?

 

[Jollybear]

Then why is virtually everyone in India (80% IIRC) a Hindu?
Why are so many Mississippians Christian?
If it wasn't based on culture wouldn't many more Mississipians be Hindu like India?

I think one has to take into account as well, not just cultural beliefs, but, names and definitions.

So, for instance, those most christians in Mississippi, is that cultural belief, or just names and definitiins?

For instance, if perse, we interviewed everyone of these "christians" in Mississippi and did a very detailed and intelligent screening process for each, i think wed find a great diversity of views amongs them. Some probably even appearing hindu, but not in NAME.

 

[Skwim]

Is being religious a sign of strength or weakness? (talking about an individual, not the society)

Good question, and welcome to RF.

If one wants to consider a need that is satisfied by irrational belief a weakness, then I can go along with "weakness." In any case, it's certainly not a strength, although it may take some kind of strength to abide by the demands of a particular religion.

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[Baladas]

Is being religious a sign of strength or weakness? (talking about an individual, not the society)

Neither.

 

[Sand Dancer]

Depends on the religion and the form it takes.

 

[Augustus]

If one wants to consider a need that is satisfied by irrational belief a weakness, then I can go along with "weakness."

If this is a weakness, then it is a weakness shared by all of humanity. All societies and belief systems are grounded in fictions.

Many irreligious folk are satisfied by the irrational belief that they are special in this regard and have transcended the need for emotionally comforting myths.

 

[Marcion]

It depends how you look at or deal with the concept of religion.
If you are more of a Tantric person (fighting actively to overcome negativity), that is a sign of strength.
If you are more of a Vedic person (begging God to change His mind on your behalf) then that is a sign of weakness.