quote:
Originally posted by fable:
So you believe the deity is different, depending upon the religion? That there isn't one god, worshipped in many forms and ways by a humankind that cannot begin to grasp the nature of its Creator?
I'm really not trying to egg you on, here. I've spoken to Christians who are very ecumenical, and others who feel that there simply is no meeting ground between their truth, and those claimed by other religions.
[ 01-19-2002: Message edited by: fable ]
To be honost, there may be some truth to that claim. Different cultures interpret things according to their own values and beliefs. Vishnu may simply be the Hindus' interpretation of God. I don't have enough personal knowledge to say for certain, but from what I understand, the 2 theologies are VASTLY different.....that's why I said I don't beleive in Vishnu (but I'm willing to admit the possibility of your theory - God IS Omnipotent - He can be whatever He wishes to).
Muslims, on the other hand, are a direct descendent from Christianity according to the Bible. The Arab nations sprang from the seed of Abraham's son by one of his concubines. Therefore, I DO believe that Allah and God are one and the same - just different names from different cultures.
If God can be Allah, then there is also the chance He could be Vishnu, Buddha, etc. etc.
But, Christianity in general (and Baptist in particular) do not generally believe in pluralism (that more than one religion is correct). So I personally don't think that God has presented Himself as Vishnu or Buddha, because the fundamental theologies are too different (from what little I know).
And your not "egging me on". I enjoy this type of debate. I want to clarify my beliefs, but I will always be respectful of differing views in my Replies.