Deity and the faith of man (1)

I applaud the three letter writers of The God Debate and The Times for publishing these. Every letter was eloquently composed so everyone could “contemplate”.

Gerie Cowie was upset: “Scorn poured on the statues which help us in our devotions”. From time immemorial, people have made statues so they could visualise the object of worship/devotion and seek comfort. The Sumerians (3,000BC) created their deities from wood (trees were considered the oldest inhabitants of earth). The statue was dressed and put in the temple behind or next to the altar. The public came to worship the deity and donate food on the altar (for the priesthood to consume). The priest spoke for the deity.

The Roman Catholic Church continued the tradition creating saints and their statues to help people praying for comfort (re-enforcing positive thoughts). My grandmother’s favourite saint was St Christopher. She would light a candle praying for a safe trip and upon returning she would leave a monetary gift at his feet as she lit one more candle in gratitude. If anyone calls this superstition, so be it; this ritual is harmless.

Einstein denied the existence of an immortal soul. Buddhists do not worship a deity but believe in an immortal soul to be reincarnated. Buddhists keep a statue or two of Buddha at home reminding them to improve their shortcomings; mine is the one teaching patience. We all have a security blanket “of sorts” (anyone has a teddy?) to keep coping/enhancing with daily life.

I realise that most people cannot understand that there are others who do not need a personal god in order to function and have a fulfilled life.

We all could put heart-shaped stickers on surfaces to “remind us” to be tolerant and respectful of different beliefs and perspectives.

Let harmony be.