all 4 comments

[–]magnora7 4 insightful - 2 fun4 insightful - 1 fun5 insightful - 2 fun -  (4 children)

Hell and Heaven are states of minds that we cultivate through our thoughts, words, actions, and how we treat others. If you look at it that way, the concepts of Heaven and Hell make a lot more sense.

[–][deleted]  (3 children)

[deleted]

    [–]magnora7 2 insightful - 2 fun2 insightful - 1 fun3 insightful - 2 fun -  (2 children)

    I think "God" just means "Universe". I agree heaven and hell are used to manipulate, but also they're goals worth seeking, as we do create our own mindstates over time, and it's better to be in a nice one, and there are techniques for getting there. But that's sort of a Buddhist perspective on Christianity I suppose, but lots of Christians think this way too

    [–][deleted]  (1 child)

    [deleted]

      [–]magnora7 1 insightful - 2 fun1 insightful - 1 fun2 insightful - 2 fun -  (0 children)

      Thanks. It's one of those ideas that seems more and more true the more I think about it. It just makes sense.

      [–]Tom_Bombadil 1 insightful - 2 fun1 insightful - 1 fun2 insightful - 2 fun -  (1 child)

      Hell is the ultimate deterrent — an eternity of pain and suffering.

      My idea of hell would be eternal shame and regret.

      Especially, if I knew the victims had forgiven me.

      The never ending psychic pressure of recognizing that you will never have the opportunity to make it up to them.

      If reincarnation exists, then enlightenment means you completed the game of life with a satisfying ending.
      Not perfect, but acceptable.

      Everyone else would have various interests in playing another round for a better score.

      The ultimate goal:. The privilege of resting in peace.

      The greatest honor: Raising children who didn't need a second round.