God and Humans

(Origins of Religion)

Connor

But then the question becomes, why do people need a piece of mind today? And why didn't we need it before the Abrahmic religions gave rise, or before Eastern religions became popular in our modern, Western culture? Just look at the ancient religions. some are scacely peaceful.

John Dishwasher

I hear what you are saying; but I think that the very fact those ancient religions existed are a kind of proof that their adherents were seeking peace of mind. The institution of the religions themselves may not have exampled peace, but they first evolved (or were revealed) because the individuals from which they grew needed it, I think. I'm leaving a lot out here, but I think the basic gist of this point stands. Also, there are some belief systems today that don't seem that peaceful on the outside, but every one of them has believers who truly find a peaceful refuge in them. Thanks for introducing this idea, Connor. Adding super-ancient (and even prehistoric) belief systems to this question is absolutely valid.

Zoops

Awesome topic, I really enjoyed reading this!

Connor

That's a good point John - and something I hadn't considered. I'm inclined to think that your point stands and mine doesn't.

Oglala ping pong

i agree that religions began for peace of mind, but, gave opportunity too easily to the corrupting mind for illegitimate use of its own doctrines. i completely believe its peace of mind we seek - even if that means putting ourselves thru trial and tribulation to get to it. at least we think we need to put ourselves thru that. i believe peace of mind can be had on the path to truth if your path is humility (a very simple, unappreciated word, used for an extremely important and detailed/complex state of mind). this is why good ole mr buddha (among others) tore off the shackles of religion and did as you propose - taking the core of the matter and dwelling on that first and foremost. the problem is that peace of mind is often a destination (as first promoted, beyond the trials, in truth), and not a state discovered/enveloped by. nearly anything can be promoted for a destination of peace of mind - money, success, morality, faith, truth, utopia...

Vowlagston

I like it...Yes, peace of mind is what I seek and seems to be the best way I can define God. For me, it makes sense.