If you were the King........

[Cuyo]

(Not talking about Elvis here.)

If you were the King (or Queen) of a country and you were going to put together a 'book' that would be your official book of good behavior for your population, what religion, what writings would you choose? And why?

I'd be a micro manager to the point of being inefficient.

 

[Dragon]

Sunshine, what I would do with respect to teachings to live by is similar to what I would do with my monarchy if I were king. As both of those assume a single authoritarian viewpoint, the one in morals and religion, the other in law and government, and my inclination and belief supports a more pluralistic, dynamic, and libertarian view in both areas, I would:

1) Assemble the best legal minds of my generation and representative of the people's interests and give them a royal command to put together a Constitution for a democratic republic. Upon their doing so in a manner that meets my approval, and upon a government being created on the basis of this Constitution and demonstrating its ability to govern effectively, I would abdicate my throne.

2) Collect, from around the world, the spiritual writings of every culture, along with works of science, philosophy, history, literature, poetry, and fiction, and open a library. I would then encourage people to study all of the ideas that have been expressed therein, adapt them to the times and places in which we live today, and in short to think for themselves.

Hopefully that will answer your question.

 

[Sunshine]

Sunshine, what I would do with respect to teachings to live by is similar to what I would do with my monarchy if I were king. As both of those assume a single authoritarian viewpoint, the one in morals and religion, the other in law and government, and my inclination and belief supports a more pluralistic, dynamic, and libertarian view in both areas, I would:

1) Assemble the best legal minds of my generation and representative of the people's interests and give them a royal command to put together a Constitution for a democratic republic. Upon their doing so in a manner that meets my approval, and upon a government being created on the basis of this Constitution and demonstrating its ability to govern effectively, I would abdicate my throne.

2) Collect, from around the world, the spiritual writings of every culture, along with works of science, philosophy, history, literature, poetry, and fiction, and open a library. I would then encourage people to study all of the ideas that have been expressed therein, adapt them to the times and places in which we live today, and in short to think for themselves.

Hopefully that will answer your question.

Closer than any have come before.

I find it interesting that people who would use their 'one vote' to attempt to dictate what should and should not be in our country become somewhat stymied when asked what they could do if their one vote were the only vote needed.

 

[Douger]

Constitution of Venezuela - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

 

[Sunshine]

Does anyone know the history of the King James Bible? The ONLY text accepted by many people in the world today. The King did just what I have asked you to do in this thread, and many are too conflicted, or haven't read enough to be able to do it.

Authorized King James Version - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

I think that many who uphold the assertion that this is and should be the only accepted text regarding religion would, if they realized the original intent of it, be indignant. Yet, in churches all across America, every Sunday, people are being told the the King James Bible is the only acceptable text.

 

[syrenn]

Point for clarification: Do you mean a book put together from the teachings of others?

Yes. You are in charge. And you want your society to be a well behaved one. You want them to work, pay their taxes, be fair with one another, etc. etc. etc. What writings would you choose?

This can be modern or ancient, it really doesn't matter. Just give me a compilation of books/writings/sources, etc. that would constitute a meaty but not overwhelming read for the average person in the world that you want your country to be.

I would not choose any writings of "others"

I would want to construct a society based on MY writings.

Its good to be the queen!

 

[Sunshine]

Point for clarification: Do you mean a book put together from the teachings of others?

Yes. You are in charge. And you want your society to be a well behaved one. You want them to work, pay their taxes, be fair with one another, etc. etc. etc. What writings would you choose?

This can be modern or ancient, it really doesn't matter. Just give me a compilation of books/writings/sources, etc. that would constitute a meaty but not overwhelming read for the average person in the world that you want your country to be.

I would not choose any writings of "others"

I would want to construct a society based on MY writings.

Its good to be the queen!

So, have the teachings of Jesus become passé or are they just no longer sufficient, even when preached fervently, to keep a society in check?

 

[syrenn]

Yes. You are in charge. And you want your society to be a well behaved one. You want them to work, pay their taxes, be fair with one another, etc. etc. etc. What writings would you choose?

This can be modern or ancient, it really doesn't matter. Just give me a compilation of books/writings/sources, etc. that would constitute a meaty but not overwhelming read for the average person in the world that you want your country to be.

I would not choose any writings of "others"

I would want to construct a society based on MY writings.

Its good to be the queen!

So, have the teachings of Jesus become passé or are they just no longer sufficient, even when preached fervently, to keep a society in check?

It would appear to me that the "teachings of jesus" have not done much to keep any society in check.

Which is why i say.... i would not use the teaching or works of anyone but myself...


I assume you are talking about a construct of our own...as king or queen. As that, i would have zero use for the teachings of others having sway on my society.

 

[Lokiate]

(Not talking about Elvis here.)

If you were the King (or Queen) of a country and you were going to put together a 'book' that would be your official book of good behavior for your population, what religion, what writings would you choose? And why?

I'd make my own shit, loosely based around the Bill of Rights of the US Constitution. Nothing creates more productivity than a body of people with an illusion of freedom.

 

[Moonglow]

orgies

 

[California Girl]

If I was the Queen, the first thing I would do would be to dissolve the Monarchy. I would replace it with a Constitutional Republic. Anyone wanna guess what document I'd take my Constitution from? If only all my fellow Americans shared my love of the Republic.

 

[yidnar]

If I was king... ah I'de have this place up and running in no time.

Wars off people, don't have to go but you can't stay there.

Take those troops, stick them all on the border.

Churches are to pay taxes like any other institution that collects money.

Pass a law declaring all funerals as sacred ground, anyone protesting a funeral is to be shot on sight.

Muslims must renounce their religion to become citizens, the beleif system is far to volatile.

Anyone who wants to become the next king must pass a grueling test about economics, American history, science, math and ethics. No idiots running the show.

Anything made in China will have a 50% import tax on it to reduce shipping of jobs.

Billionaires will get their tax cuts ONLY after they prove that they are creating jobs. (since that is the entire reason they get them, only seems right they should prove they are doing it.)

If you are PRO war and vote that we go to war, you MUST SERVE in that war. This will basically cut wars out entirely unless we absolutely must engage in it.

Hmm what else, horsewhip Bill O'reilly and Glen Beck for creating terror in the minds of half the country, getting them scared of their own shadow. Send every member of congress to jail.

If you are caught with a gun and don't have a licence for it, mandatory 30 years in prison. No parolle.

Food stamps last 3 months. cant get it together by then you're problem.

Jason Stratham is banned from acting as it causes mass stupidity in all that witness it.

stipulation #6 of your post disqualifies you from being king ... SO SAITH KING YIDNAR !!!

 

[PLYMCO_PILGRIM]

(Not talking about Elvis here.)

If you were the King (or Queen) of a country and you were going to put together a 'book' that would be your official book of good behavior for your population, what religion, what writings would you choose? And why?

I would choose the 10 commandments and buddhist teachings on Karma.

I think the 10 commandments are a great set of rules to live by and I think living under the belief that karma is real is also very good for society as a whole.

I would NOT pick any one religion as a whole though, I dont like religions.

 

[Dr.Drock]

Jesus H Christ. This is a stupid thread. If I was king? I really doubt anyone knows what the hell they would do if they were given TOTAL power. All the nicy- nicy stuff aside, our true nature would surprise us. What philosophy we choose would be a superficial. Most of you would probably follow de Sade or Hitler's Mein Kampf. But, sure, we say THE BIBLE. Ya, right. Sure.

orgies

you do realize that when you post [ orgies ] while your avatar is bending over with his naked ass in the air is gay ass hell don't you ??

Is there anything that DOESN'T cause you to have gay thoughts?

 

[Sallow]

(Not talking about Elvis here.)

If you were the King (or Queen) of a country and you were going to put together a 'book' that would be your official book of good behavior for your population, what religion, what writings would you choose? And why?

I would put up the US Constitution. Help form parties and the government prescribed in it.

Then quit.

 

[Dr.Drock]

(Not talking about Elvis here.)

If you were the King (or Queen) of a country and you were going to put together a 'book' that would be your official book of good behavior for your population, what religion, what writings would you choose? And why?

I would put up the US Constitution. Help form parties and the government prescribed in it.

Then quit.

I'm with you on 2 out of 3

However parties have wrecked our gov't, have everyone run on their own merit.

 

[Douger]

Does anyone know the history of the King James Bible? The ONLY text accepted by many people in the world today. The King did just what I have asked you to do in this thread, and many are too conflicted, or haven't read enough to be able to do it.

Authorized King James Version - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

I think that many who uphold the assertion that this is and should be the only accepted text regarding religion would, if they realized the original intent of it, be indignant. Yet, in churches all across America, every Sunday, people are being told the the King James Bible is the only acceptable text.

That's because it's the script your masters have been following for centuries.

 

[Douger]

Maybe I should start referring to it as The Owners manual.

 

[Obamerican]

(Not talking about Elvis here.)

If you were the King (or Queen) of a country and you were going to put together a 'book' that would be your official book of good behavior for your population, what religion, what writings would you choose? And why?

A Basic Buddhism Guide: Differences From Other Religions.

The basics of good will towards others without all of the supreme being doctrine that a lot of humans can't seem to handle.

 

[Obamerican]

1. There is no almighty God in Buddhism. There is no one to hand out rewards or punishments on a supposedly Judgement Day.

2. Buddhism is strictly not a religion in the context of being a faith and worship owing allegiance to a supernatural being.

3. No saviour concept in Buddhism. A Buddha is not a saviour who saves others by his personal salvation. Although a Buddhist seeks refuge in the Buddha as his incomparable guide who indicates the path of purity, he makes no servile surrender. A Buddhist does not think that he can gain purity merely by seeking refuge in the Buddha or by mere faith in Him. It is not within the power of a Buddha to wash away the impurities of others

4. A Buddha is not an incarnation of a god/God (as claimed by some Hindu followers). The relationship between a Buddha and his disciples and followers is that of a teacher and student.

5. The liberation of self is the responsibility of one's own self. Buddhism does not call for an unquestionable blind faith by all Buddhist followers. It places heavy emphasis on self-reliance, self discipline and individual striving.

6. Taking refuge in The Triple Gems i.e. the Buddha, the Dharma and the Sangha; does not mean self-surrender or total reliance on an external force or third party for help or salvation.

7. Dharma (the teachings in Buddhism) exists regardless whether there is a Buddha. Sakyamuni Buddha (as the historical Buddha) discovered and shared the teachings/ universal truths with all sentient beings. He is neither the creator of such teachings nor the prophet of an almighty God to transmit such teachings to others.

8. Especially emphasized in Mahayana Buddhism, all sentient beings have Buddha Nature/ Essence. One can become a Buddha (a supreme enlightened being) in due course if one practises diligently and attains purity of mind (ie absolutely no delusions or afflictions).

9. In Buddhism, the ultimate objective of followers/practitioners is enlightenment and/or liberation from Samsara; rather than to go to a Heaven (or a deva realm in the context of Buddhist cosmology).

10. Karma and Karma Force are cornerstones in Buddhist doctrines. They are expounded very thoroughly in Buddhism. Karma refers to an important metaphysical concept concerned with action and its consequences. This law of karma explains the problem of sufferings, the mystery of the so-called fate and predestination of some religions, and above all the apparent inequality of mankind.

11. Rebirth is another key doctrine in Buddhism and it goes hand in hand with karma. There is a subtle difference between rebirth and reincarnation as expounded in Hinduism. Buddhism rejects the theory of a transmigrating permanent soul, whether created by a god or emanating from a divine essence.

12. Maitri or Metta in Pali (Loving Kindness) and Karuna (Compassion) to all living beings including animals. Buddhism strictly forbids animal sacrifice for whatever reason. Vegetarianism is recommended but not compulsory.

13. The importance of Non-attachment. Buddhism goes beyond doing good and being good. One must not be attached to good deeds or the idea of doing good; otherwise it is just another form of craving.

14. In Buddhism, there is consideration for all sentient beings (versus human beings, as in other religions). Buddhists acknowledge/accept the existence of animals and beings in other realms in Samsara.

15. No holy war concept in Buddhism. Killing is breaking a key moral precept in Buddhism. One is strictly forbidden to kill another person in the name of religion, a religious leader or whatsoever religious pretext or worldly excuse.

16. Suffering is another cornerstone in Buddhism. It is the first of the Four Noble Truths. Sufferings are very well analysed and explained in Buddhism.

17. The idea of sin or original sin has no place in Buddhism. Also, sin should not be equated to suffering.

18. Buddhist teachings expound no beginning and no end to one's existence or life. There is virtually no recognition of a first cause — e.g. how does human existence first come about?

19. The Dharma provides a very detailed explanation of the doctrine of anatman {anatta in Pali} or soullessness , i.e. there is no soul entity (whether in one life of many lives).

20. The Buddha is omniscient but he is not omnipotent. He is capable of innumerable feats but there are three things he cannot do. Also, a Buddha does not claim to be a creator of lives or the Universe.

21. Prajna [Panna in Pali] or Transcendent Wisdom occupies a paramount position in Buddhist teachings. Sakyamuni Buddha expounded Prajna concepts for some 20 years of his ministry. One is taught to balance compassion with prajna i.e.emotion (faith) with rationale (right understanding / truth / logic).

22. The tradition and practice of meditation in Buddhism are relatively important and strong. While all religions teach some forms or variations of stabilising/single-pointedness meditation, only Buddhism emphazises Vipassana (Insight) meditation as a powerful tool to assist one in seeking liberation/enlightenment.

23. The doctrine of Sunyata or Emptiness is unique to Buddhism and its many aspects are well expounded in advanced Buddhist teachings. Briefly, this doctrine asserts the transcendental nature of Ultimate Reality. It declares the phenomenal world to be void of all limitations of particularization and that all concepts of dualism are abolished.

24. Conditioned Arising [Paticcasamuppada in Pali] or Dependent Origination is another key doctrine in Buddhism. This doctrine explains that all psychological and physical phenomena constituting individual existence are interdependent and mutually condition each other; this at the same time describes what entangles sentient beings in samsara.

25. The concept of Hell(s) in Buddhism is very different from that of other religions. It is not a place for eternal damnation as viewed by 'almighty creator' religions. In Buddhism, it is just one of the six realms in Samsara [i.e. the worst of three undesirable realms]. Also, there are virtually unlimited number of hells in the Buddhist cosmology as there are infinite number of Buddha worlds.

26. The Buddhist cosmology (or universe) is distinctly different from that of other religions which usually recognise only this solar system (Earth) as the centre of the Universe and the only planet with living beings. The Buddhist viewpoint of a Buddha world (also known as Three Thousand-Fold World System) is that of one billion solar systems. Besides, the Mahayana Buddhist doctrines expound that there are other contemporary Buddha worlds like Amitabha's Pure Land and Bhaisajyaguru's world system.

27. Samsara is a fundamental concept in Buddhism and it is simply the 'perpetual cycles of existence' or endless rounds of rebirth among the six realms of existence. This cyclical rebirth pattern will only end when a sentient being attains Nirvana, i.e. virtual exhaustion of karma, habitual traces, defilements and delusions. All other religions preach one heaven, one earth and one hell, but this perspective is very limited compared with Buddhist samsara where heaven is just one of the six realms of existence and it has 28 levels/planes.

[ Compiled by Tan Swee Eng]

A Basic Buddhism Guide: Differences From Other Religions.