Dalai Lama on How to Be a Buddhist in Today’s World

Once people adopt a religion, they should practice it sincerely. Truly believing in God, Buddha, Allah or Shiva should inspire one to be an honest human being. Some people claim to have faith in their religion but act counter to its ethical injunctions. They pray for the success of their dishonest and corrupt actions, asking God or Buddha for help in covering up their wrongdoings. There is no point in such people describing themselves as religious.

Today the world faces a crisis related to lack of respect for spiritual principles and ethical values. Such virtues cannot be forced on society by legislation or by science, nor can fear inspire ethical conduct. Rather, people must have conviction in the worth of ethical principles so that they want to live ethically.

The U.S. and India, for example, have solid governmental institutions, but many of the people involved lack ethical principles. Self-discipline and self-restraint of all citizens—from CEOs to lawmakers to teachers—are needed to create a good society. But these virtues cannot be imposed from the outside. They require inner cultivation. This is why spirituality and religion are relevant in the modern world.

India, where I now live, has been home to the ideas of secularism, inclusiveness and diversity for some 3,000 years. One philosophical tradition asserts that only what we know through our five senses exists. Other Indian philosophical schools criticize this nihilistic view but still regard the people who hold it as rishis, or sages. I promote this type of secularism: to be a kind person who does not harm others regardless of profound religious differences.

In previous centuries, Tibetans knew little about the rest of the world. We lived on a high and broad plateau surrounded by the world’s tallest mountains. Almost everyone, except for a small community of Muslims, was Buddhist. Very few foreigners came to our land. Since we went into exile in 1959, Tibetans have been in contact with the rest of the world. We relate with religions, ethnic groups and cultures that hold a broad spectrum of views.

Further, Tibetan youth now receive a modern education in which they are exposed to opinions not traditionally found in their community. It is now imperative that Tibetan Buddhists be able to explain clearly their tenets and beliefs to others using reason. Simply quoting from Buddhist scriptures does not convince people who did not grow up as Buddhists of the validity of the Buddha’s doctrine. If we try to prove points only by quoting scripture, these people may respond: “Everyone has a book to quote from!”

Religion faces three principal challenges today: communism, modern science and the combination of consumerism and materialism. Although the Cold War ended decades ago, communist beliefs and governments still strongly affect life in Buddhist countries. In Tibet, the communist government controls the ordination of monks and nuns while also regulating life in the monasteries and nunneries. It controls the education system, teaching children that Buddhism is old-fashioned.

Modern science, up until now, has confined itself to studying phenomena that are material in nature. Scientists largely examine only what can be measured with scientific instruments, limiting the scope of their investigations and their understanding of the universe. Phenomena such as rebirth and the existence of the mind as separate from the brain are beyond the scope of scientific investigation. Some scientists, although they have no proof that these phenomena do not exist, consider them unworthy of consideration. But there is reason for optimism. In recent years, I have met with many open-minded scientists, and we have had mutually beneficial discussions that have highlighted our common points as well as our diverging ideas—expanding the world views of scientists and Buddhists in the process.

Then there is materialism and consumerism. Religion values ethical conduct, which may involve delayed gratification, whereas consumerism directs us toward immediate happiness. Faith traditions stress inner satisfaction and a peaceful mind, while materialism says that happiness comes from external objects. Religious values such as kindness, generosity and honesty get lost in the rush to make more money and have more and “better” possessions. Many people’s minds are confused about what happiness is and how to create its causes.

If you study the Buddha’s teachings, you may find that some of them are in harmony with your views on societal values, science and consumerism—and some of them are not. That is fine. Continue to investigate and reflect on what you discover. In this way, whatever conclusion you reach will be based on reason, not simply on tradition, peer pressure or blind faith.

The 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, is the spiritual leader of Tibet. He is co-author, with Thubten Chodron, of “Approaching the Buddhist Path,” from which this article is adapted.

Originally published in the Wall Street Journal on July 6, 2017.

Link with photo: https://www.dalailama.com/messages/religious-harmony-1/how-to-be-a-buddhist-in-todays-world

Dalai Lama: Interfaith Meeting & Action for Happiness Event

London, England, 21 September 2015 - Before he left for the day’s other engagements this morning, His Holiness the Dalai Lama gave an interview to Christiane Amanpour of CNN. She began by asking: “What are you trying to do here?” and he replied:

“What’s important is that all human beings, wherever they are, whether they are rich or poor, educated or uneducated, have a right to live a happy life. Many think that happiness is to be found outside ourselves in material things, but actually happiness is something that comes from within. So I try to present the importance of inner values not on the basis of religious quotations, but by taking a secular approach based on scientific findings and common sense.

Ms Amanpour remarked that China is changing because of its rapidly developing economy and yet the authorities still refer to His Holiness as a ‘splittist’. He told her that Tibetans had not been seeking independence since 1974 and everybody knows that. She mentioned concern about who will succeed him. He replied that as far as Tibetan Buddhism is concerned the 10,000 monks and nuns who are studying and practising today will be able to preserve it. He made the point that the Buddha’s teaching has survived for 2600 years without there being a recognised reincarnation of the Buddha. He conceded that while he might be the last Dalai Lama, he may yet appoint a successor from among qualified lamas before he goes.

Asked how he sees the persecution of Rohingyas in Burma His Holiness said: “It’s very sad. I have appealed to Burmese Buddhists to stop and think. When they feel angry or resentful of these people, remember the face of the Buddha. I believe that if the Buddha were there, he would offer the Rohingyas his protection.”

Finally, noting that President Xi Jinping will shortly be visiting the USA and the UK, Ms Amanpour wanted to know what His Holiness would say to him if he had the opportunity to do so. He answered:

“Perhaps I’d say that that although historically we were an independent country, as records of the 7th to 9th centuries show, we are not seeking independence now. We can benefit from the development we get as part of the People’s Republic of China, but we must be able to preserve our language, culture and Buddhist traditions. I’d remind him that last year in Paris and Delhi he said that Buddhism plays an important role in Chinese culture. Buddhist values can be of help at a time when the injustice and corruption he seeks to contain are widespread.”

Arriving at the House of Lords to attend an Interfaith Meeting organized by the Buddhist Society, His Holiness was welcomed by Baroness Caroline Cox and Desmond Biddulph, the Society’s President. They escorted him through the grand halls to the meeting, which was attended by Christians, Muslims, Buddhists and Hindus of various denominations and a Sikh.

Baroness Cox amused everyone when she introduced herself as a nurse and social scientist by profession and a Baroness by astonishment. Remarking that she was the first Baroness she’d ever met, she added that she realized that the role gave her a voice to use on behalf of those who have no voice. Desmond Biddulph told the gathering that His Holiness is the Patron of the Buddhist Society and that this was an opportunity to celebrate his 80th birthday and the Society’s 90th anniversary. He said that one of His Holiness’s requests had been that, as Buddhists, members of the Society should reach out to others. He invited His Holiness to address the gathering, which he did.

“It’s a great honour for me to be sitting here with spiritual brothers and sisters of various traditions. In too many places today it seems religious and nationalistic feelings are giving rise to terrible conflicts. We have to find ways to bring peace. This is something that those of us who are religious have to do. Meetings like this are an opportunity to build and nurture friendship and trust among us.

“There is an impression in many people’s minds these days that Muslims are especially militant. However, we have to remember that there are militant Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, Jews and Buddhists too. The Muslim community that lived in Tibet were a very peaceful community and meeting them in exile I am reminded of the pure Lhasa dialect they still speak.

“Muslim friends have told me that if you shed blood you are no longer a genuine Muslim and that Muslims have a commitment to respect all the creatures of Allah. They also tell me that the word ‘jihad’ is misunderstood. It doesn’t have anything to do with fighting other people, but refers to combating disturbing emotions within yourself.”

The Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu spoke of growing up in Uganda with two Muslim children from Zanzibar. His father took them in when their own parents died in a fire and he was unable to trace any other relatives. Although theirs was a Christian family, his father arranged for these two children to attend a mosque on Fridays. The Archbishop reported that in a similar spirit he has spoken in the House of Lords of the need to encourage the Chinese authorities to acknowledge and respect His Holiness the Dalai Lama as a spiritual leader. He said he feels it’s important to remember, “I am not my brother’s keeper, I am my brother’s brother.”

Archbishop Kevin McDonald conveyed greetings to His Holiness and members of the gathering from Cardinal Vincent Nichols, leader of the Roman Catholic Church in the United Kingdom. He also recalled serving in the Vatican when Pope John Paul II convened the ground-breaking interfaith gathering in Assisi in 1986 that His Holiness and Archbishop Robert Runcie had attended.

Baroness Berridge, Chair of the All Party Group on International Religious Freedom, who had just returned from the USA, mentioned her concern for persecuted Muslims and Christians in Burma and elsewhere. She said that those in public life have a responsibility to work for rights for all.

Chime Rinpoche took the opportunity simply to say thank you to His Holiness for all he has done.

The Bishop of Coventry, Christopher Cocksworth, remarked that violence is never of any help and that religious leaders need to make this clear their various governments. He pointed out that while there is public horror at the violence in Syria and Iraq, last week saw a great arms show in the UK. He said it seems there is still too great a sense that the use of military force is the way to solve problems, but in fact in the long run words are more effective than bullets. The meeting as a whole expressed dismay at the way violence continues and a determination to work for dialogue.

In his closing remarks, His Holiness repeated what he often says, that love and compassion are what bring people together, while anger and suspicion push them apart. He noted that religious people have their own different paths, each of which is worthy of respect. He said the common purpose of different kinds of food is to fill our stomachs, but it would be foolish to say, “I like to eat this food, therefore you should eat it too!”

He drew attention to three aspects of religious tradition. The religious aspect concerns the common practice of love and compassion, tolerance and self-discipline. While philosophical views may be quite different, they are all dedicated to the same goal of reinforcing the practice of love. However, he said, there may also be cultural aspects of religious tradition, like caste discrimination, that are no longer relevant and should be changed. He said he encourages religious leaders to speak out about these things whenever they can. The meeting adjourned for lunch in the Strangers’ Dining Room of the House of Commons.

In the afternoon, an enthusiastic and friendly audience of more than 2000 awaited His Holiness’s arrival at the Lyceum theatre. He was met at the stage door by his old friend Lord Richard Layard, who with Director of Action for Happiness, Mark Williamson, escorted him to the stage. They were received with resounding cheers and applause. Dr Williams explained that a new course of training was being launched today on World Peace Day, called Exploring What Matters. He said that it is ever more important to bring people together to think about their lives and to help them make their lives happier.

He invited Jasmine Hodge-Lake to the stage to tell her story. She explained that following an accident that left her injured and in pain, she had become depressed. Attending an Action for Happiness talk helped her understand she could relate differently to her pain. She then took the pilot Action for Happiness course that helped her realize how she could bring hope back into her life and help others. She said:

“I learned how helping others you can help yourself. I’m a different person now to the one I was before the Action for Happiness course. I realized I could be the change I wanted to see.”

Adrian Bethune, a teacher at John Stainer Community Primary School told of becoming disillusioned with teaching until he also took the course. It helped him understand how he could do his work more positively and introduce changes in the classroom. He began to discuss with his students how the mind and brain work based on insights from neuroscience. He rebranded an anti-bullying programme as ‘it’s cool to be kind.’ On Fridays he asked the students to think back and choose three good things they’d done that week. He said teacher and students have become much happier about coming to school.

Prof Layard then opened a conversation with His Holiness, who is Action for Happiness’s Patron. He asked him how we can have more happiness, more peace in our hearts and His Holiness replied:

“Peace means no disturbance, no danger. It relates to our mental attitude. If we have a calm mind, obstacles will be less disruptive. The important thing is to realize that ultimately peace of mind is within us, it takes a warm heart and using our intelligence. People sometimes think warm heartedness, compassion and love are religious topics; they are actually factors for our survival. If we don’t take steps to reinforce these qualities now, the 21st century will also end up being an era of violence like the 20th century. We can’t expect change if we don’t take action. Prayer is not sufficient; we have to take responsibility ourselves. Problems created by human beings have to be solved by human beings.”

When Prof Layard asked how we can improve our relations with each other, His Holiness told him that as social animals people have to overcome their old habit of seeing others in terms of ‘us’ and ‘them’, which just solidifies division. He said we have to see that we are all just human beings and that in our globalized world we have to deal with a global economy and problems like climate change whose effects ignore national boundaries. We have instead to cultivate a sense of global responsibility that sees everyone as ‘us’.

His Holiness explained how discussions with scientists over 30 years had contributed to an understanding of a curriculum of secular ethics in education from kindergarten to university. Part of this involves working with a map of emotions to ensure that the physical hygiene we need to be healthy is accompanied by emotional hygiene.

He answered several questions from the audience, observing that the natural seed of compassion we all possess can, if we use our intelligence, be extended to encompass even our enemies. He acknowledged the need to look after our own interests, but explained that the foolish way to do this is to focus on ourselves alone. A wiser sense of self-interest takes others’ interests into account as well. Asked what one thing people could do to make the world a happier place he answered: “Cultivate affection.”

As the discussions came to a close and His Holiness waved goodbye to the audience they responded with affectionate cheers.

Once the curtain had dropped on the stage, the BBC’s Mark Easton asked His Holiness about the launch of Exploring What Matters and Action for Happiness. He suggested that some were cynical that such moves could be effective. His Holiness retorted that such resistance is just old-fashioned thinking. Warm-heartedness can make individuals, families, communities and even countries happier. He said:

“Even the creation of the EU was essentially an act of compassion. And look, I'm convinced more positive reporting by the BBC and the media, just as you are doing now, can really help make people happier.”

original link + ;photos: http://dalailama.com/news/post/1320-interfaith-meeting-and-action-for-happiness-event

Secular Ethics is Appropriate for the 21st Century

Dharamshala: - His Holiness the Dalai Lama was welcomed into the council chamber of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, Leh (LAHDC) on 15 July, where His Holiness heard about the hardships the Ladakhi people have overcome and spoke of the importance of secular ethics in modern education.

The Chief Executive Councillor, Rigzin Spalbar gave a brief overview of the 18 year existence of the LAHDC. "Ladakh is a region of strategic importance which has led to an instability in the Ladakhi way of life" he said. He then explained that the life the Ladakhis led included an optimum use of resources and preservation of traditional values while also embracing modernity. He admitted that it was the concern for a greater local role in decision making in the year 1995 that led to the establishment of the LAHDC.

His Holiness then thanked for the opportunity to meet everyone and for the account of their activities. "You have faced hardships and have coped with them. I have no special contribution to make for I am only a guest here, but we have been close friends for many years." said His Holiness and congratulated them on the hardships they have overcome.

"Your plans for the future are good and now implementation is in order. Other than that, you know better about your needs than I." said His Holiness.

"One thing I would like to talk to you about though is education." continued His Holiness, "I had the opportunity to visit universities in countries all over the world. Many scientists, educationists and thinkers agree that our existing education systems are inadequate. Not enough time and energy is given to nurture inner values and ethics. I tell people that we need a more complete system of education that includes training in ethics; secular ethics. India's constitution is based on secularism, a respect for all religious traditions and even individuals who have none. Secular ethics is appropriate for modern society."

"I'm not talking about God, Allah or Buddha, but about developing a better society which revolves around education. We need to think of ourselves belonging to one human family. If we can do that, then there is a possibility that by the end of the 21st century we can create a happier, more peaceful society and this depends on our own actions and not on who we pray to. The 7 billion human beings alive today are our brothers and sisters; therefore we need cooperation based on trust and self-confidence to create an open, compassionate, harmonious society." continued His Holiness.

His Holiness said that although many agree, they do not yet know how to introduce secular ethics into our current curriculum and hence are working to develop a study program that can be piloted in a couple schools and if successful then it could be extended to other schools taking into account of its members rights and aspirations.

"If you harm and bully others, it will not do good to oneself." His Holiness pointed out. "The scientists have shown that constant fear and anger damages our immune system, while warmheartedness is good for our health"

"Here in Ladakh you have long been living in harmony which you must work hard to keep it up" encouraged His Holiness.

Original photo and link: http://www.thetibetpost.com/en/news-in-focus/4139-secular-ethics-is-appropriate-for-21st-century-hh-the-dalai-lama

Paranormal Ambush Smackdown, Part 3

By Kirby Robinson

Continued from:

Paranormal Ambush Smackdown, Part 1

Paranormal Ambush Smackdown, Part 2

Chip Coffey, Andréa Perron, John Zaffis and George Lopez speak lies and seek to mislead the public.

Today we'll start breaking down the two hours of lies the above four fake para-celebrities took part in on the recent radio ambush. But first, here are some related topics that you might find interesting.

Chip Coffey Hates Ambush Interviews …

… only when they are about him. Chip has no issues taking part in one.

http://www.ghosttheory.com/2009/08/28/eerie-radio-interview-chip-cancels

A few years ago, Chip got wind that he might be the victim of such an event on Eerie Radio. What did he do? He went on the warpath. "How dare anyone do this to anyone!" he cried.

Guess the rule is that he can direct others to ambush for him---can we say double standard?

ALL Spiritual Paths Lead to Heaven Say Coffey & Perron!

Okay, let's put that statement to a test.

On night one, the public heard a healthy, or should we say unhealthy, dose of new age thinking. When I expressed any traditional Christian thinking, my beliefs were condemned. I said that only through Christ could we get into heaven. They also didn’t believe that the Muslim religion is one of violence rather than peace.

Here's what the Bible says about Christians going to heaven.

John 14 New International Version (NIV)

Jesus Comforts His Disciples

14 “Do not let your hearts be troubled You believe in God believe also in me. 2 My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am You know the way to the place where I am going.”

Jesus the Way to the Father

5 Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?” 6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life." No one comes to the Father except through me.7 If you really know me, you will know my Father as well From now on, you do know him and have seen him.” 8 Philip said, “Lord, show us the Father and that will be enough for us.” 9 Jesus answered: “Don’t you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? 10 Don’t you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in me. The words I say to you I do not speak on my own authority. Rather, it is the Father, living in me, who is doing his work. 11 Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; or at least believe on the evidence of the works themselves;" in me will do the works I have been doing and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. 13 And I will do whatever you ask" in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.

John 14 is plain to most Christians that we must go through the Son, not through Allah, or Joseph Smith or one of the millions of Hindu Gods. Only through Christ. Will I say I'm sorry for this thinking? No. When you go to the "all spiritual paths lead to heaven teaching being true" then God had no need to send His Son to die for us.

I realize that all spiritual paths leading to heaven theory sounds so cool. Do you realize what you're saying. So, what about Muslims murdering in the name of Allah? "...a Christian mother pregnant with her second child in Sudan was convicted of adultery and apostasy for marrying a Christian man. The punishment: 100 lashes and death, in that order." Full story here: http://www.charismanews.com/opinion/43882-the-christian-persecution-story-even-the-secular-media-can-t-ignore

The above is not uncommon throughout the Middle East. If things don't change some say there won't be any Christians left in the Middle East. How is this path going to lead one to heaven?

Here is a story about an L.A. guru, Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh who is popular with the young people.

http://radaronline.com/exclusives/2014/05/kiddie-cult-guru-kylie-jenner-willow-smith-jaden-smith/

Will teachings on drugs, sex, and bio-terrorism lead one to heaven?

What about the FLDS? "FLDS members not approved into the United Order are asked to leave their families and repent in hope that FLDS leadership will eventually choose them for the United Order; United Order members are expected to consecrate all their property over to the FLDS Church. Membership status therefore is relevant to show, among other things, motives of government officials to appease FLDS leadership." Read more here:

http://fox13now.com/2014/05/09/is-there-a-secret-group-inside-the-secretive-flds-church/

Sign everything over to the new United Order so you can buy your way into heaven? That's unlikely. We could go the KKK route as they have a religion and claim you can get into heaven by hate.

While all spiritual paths lead to heaven may seem like a nice sounding new age teaching, once you fill it up to see if it holds water it leaks from top to bottom.

THE SHOW "A WORLD AWAKENING"

We'll share the following link so you can listen and make up your own mind.

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/dead-air/2014/04/30/a-world-awakening-recapping-last-nights-events-bishop-long-and-others

Before you do, read the summary of what the show is about.

Hosts Andrea Perron and George Lopez will pilot this new launch into a vast sea of discovery of ourselves, our world and the universe.

"A World Awakening" strives to unify, empower and give voice to an ever-expanding collective of like-minded individuals who seek Light, gathering together as a cohesive global community. Changing the world begins with changing the mind. Our singular intention, our mission is to serve, to love, to explore, inform and enlighten, promoting peace along the path of a spiritual journey destined to achieve understanding of our eternal connection. We seek the truth which will liberate and elevate humanity.

"Let us live simply in the freshness of the present moment, in the clarity of pure, awakened mind." Matthieu Ricard

Around the 15-minute mark, note Mr. Lopez uses the term AMBUSH.

Next week--we expose the lies of Mr. Lopez.

  

Keep current and follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/eyeonparanormal

EARN EXTRA MONEY! If you have a website, forum or blog you can set up an Amazon Associates Affiliate Program link and sell the Kindle version of our books. "Is the Long Island Medium the Real Deal?" [Now in Paperback!], "Never Mock God: An Unauthorized Investigation into Paranormal State's 'I Am Six' Case" [also in paperback!], "Investigating Paranormal State," "Paranormal State Exposed" and "Paranormal Teachings: The Best of Shedding Some Light" and earn money. You can also sell other books and products that Amazon offers. Here's the link: https://affiliate-program.amazon.com/

Bad Bad Thing Wednesday – More Fake Psychics, Exorcists & Goofballs

By Kirby Robinson

$120,000 GIVEN TO FAKE PSYCHIC & FAMILY

You don't need a psychic to get rid of demons. Especially if Cathy Johnson of Wood-Ridge, New Jersey and her relatives rip you off for $120,000. Here's the full story:

http://www.northjersey.com/news/Wood-ridge_psychic_wanted_for_allegedly_bilking_client_out_of_more_than_120000.html

NORTH CAROLINA WOMAN GIVES $30,000 TO FAKE PSYCHIC

This North Carolina woman was lucky -- she only lost 30,000 dollars to fake psychic. Also, she chooses to remain anonymous. Tamara Caulder, a local psychic not involved in the case, is quoted: "…she’s a real one, but realizes most people are skeptical of her line of work."

Full story:

http://www.wsoctv.com/news/news/local/woman-pays-30000-psychic-session/nc4WD/

THE SINGING EXORCIST!

With the nation and the paranormal field fixated by the fake Gary, Indiana demon case, I felt it wise to share a fake demon story that takes place in Azerbaijan. According to BBC, "a video was posted online which shows [a young woman] being treated by self-professed exorcist Vusal Merdinli. In the video, he sings and reads to her from the Koran…"  You don't put a possessed person on TV for people to watch as entertainment. Additionally, the Bible teaches a house divided can't stand, and demons can't cast out other demons. How's this? Allah is a demon, therefore this self-professed exorcist can sing, dance, and read from the Koran all he wants – that demon ain't going back to hell. The story has no legs but it is worth reading for a laugh.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/blogs-trending-25885150

BOB LARSON PERFORMS EXORCISMS VIA SKYPE!

Bob Larson's back in the news! At least I can say he is a real pastor, unlike Andrew Calder [fake Episcopal Priest]. You can't do an exorcism via Skype--you must be there in person. Here's the full story:

http://www.abc15.com/dpp/news/region_northeast_valley/scottsdale/reverend-bob-larson-performing-exorcisms-via-skype-from-scottsdale#ixzz2rbIuqyeq

They keep coming up with scams we keep catching them

Keep current and follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/eyeonparanormal

EARN EXTRA MONEY! If you have a website, forum or blog you can set up an Amazon Associates Affiliate Program link and sell the Kindle version of our books. “Is the Long Island Medium the Real Deal?” [Now in Paperback!], “Never Mock God: An Unauthorized Investigation into Paranormal State's 'I Am Six' Case” [also in paperback!], “Investigating Paranormal State,” “Paranormal State Exposed” and “Paranormal Teachings: The Best of Shedding Some Light” and earn money. You can also sell other books and products that Amazon offers. Here's the link: https://affiliate-program.amazon.com/

Bad Bad Thing Award Goes to ‘Stomp on Jesus’ Professor Deandre Poole

By Kirby Robinson

Professor Deandre Poole
Florida Atlantic University

You can stomp on grapes but you never stomp on the name of Jesus! Because if you stomp on Jesus in any way you’re getting on this:

“A Florida college professor causing national outrage for requiring students to write ‘Jesus’ on a piece of paper, then put it on the floor and stomp on it, turns out also to be a top official in the local Democratic Party – the latest in a string of acute leadership embarrassments.” Read the full story here: 

http://www.wnd.com/2013/03/dem-party-official-makes-students-stomp-on-jesus/#ezV8ePM407GrDTaV.99

How do you feel about the Florida Atlantic University professor doing such a thing? Let him know by contacting him: dpoole3@fau.edu

Let the school know what you think:

Office of the President
Florida Atlantic University
Administration Bldg., Room 339
777 Glades Road
Boca Raton, FL 33431

tel: 561.297.3450
fax: 561.297.2777
president@fau.edu

This is yet one more piece of evidence that there is an outright war against God in this nation. Whether it’s the new church that has removed the cross and the concept of sin and replaced it with a feel good theology, or the forces that seek to remove God from this nation. The time to stand or simply give in and run is near. However, I won’t run, I will stand and fight.

If students were asked to stomp on Allah, or the child molester moon god worshipper Mohammad, there would be an outcry and public marches. President Obama would fly down to the university to complain. But since it is the name of Jesus, the mainstream media and the White House don’t care.

Do you know of a para-celeb, psychic, ghost hunter, demon chaser or false teacher who’s eligible for the award? You can take part by sending us a name and why you think they should receive the BAD BAD THING award. Contact freeallspirits@live.com for more information.

Keep current and follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/eyeonparanormal

EARN EXTRA MONEY! If you have a website, forum or blog you can set up an Amazon Associates Affiliate Program link and sell the Kindle version of NEVER MOCK GOD: AN UNAUTHORIZED INVESTIGATION INTO PARANORMAL STATE’S “I AM SIX” CASE [also in paperback!], INVESTIGATING PARANORMAL STATE, PARANORMAL STATE EXPOSED and PARANORMAL TEACHINGS: THE BEST OF SHEDDING SOME LIGHT and earn money. You can also sell other books and products that Amazon offers. Here's the link https://affiliate-program.amazon.com/

The Dalai Lama on Religious Harmony

A Biased Mind Cannot Grasp Reality

I am extremely delighted to attend this inter faith seminar on the Preservation of Religious Harmony, Co­existence and Universal Peace organised by the International Association for Religious Freedom (IARF), Ladakh group. Thank you very much for the detailed explanation of the association's history, activities, objectives and their relevance in the present century. I have nothing to add on what the speakers said earlier. But I would like to say a few things.

We are now in the twenty ­first century. The quality of research on both the inner and physical world has reached quite high levels, thanks to the tremendous stride in technological advancement and human intelligence. However, as some of the speakers said before, the world is also facing a lot of new problems, most of which are man­-made. The root cause of these man­-made problems is the inability of human beings to control their agitated minds. How to control such a state of mind is taught by the various religions of this world.

I am a religious practitioner, who follows Buddhism. More than a thousand years have passed since the great religions of the world flourished, including Buddhism. During those years, the world had witnessed a lot of conflicts, in which followers of different religions were also involved. As a religious practitioner, I acknowledge the fact that different religions of the world have provided many solutions about how to control an agitated mind. In spite of this, I still feel we have not been able to realise our full potential.

I always say that every person on this earth has the freedom to practice or not practice religion. It is all right to do either. But once you accept religion, it is extremely important to be able to focus your mind on it and sincerely practice the teachings in your daily life. All of us can see that we tend to indulge in religious favouritism by saying, "I belong to this or that religion", rather than making effort to control our agitated minds. This misuse of religion, due to our disturbed minds, also sometimes creates problems.

I know a physicist from Chile who told me that it is not appropriate for a scientist to be biased towards science because of his love and passion for it. I am a Buddhist practitioner and have a lot of faith and respect in the teachings of the Buddha. However, if I mix up my love for and attachment to Buddhism, then my mind shall be biased towards it. A biased mind, which never sees the complete picture, cannot grasp the reality. And any action that results from such a state of mind will not be in tune with reality. As such it causes a lot of problems.

According to Buddhist philosophy, happiness is the result of an enlightened mind whereas suffering is caused by a distorted mind. This is very important. A distorted mind, in contrast to an enlightened mind, is one that is not in tune with reality.

Any issue, including political, economic and religious activities human beings pursue in this world, should be fully understood before we pass our judgement. Therefore, it is very important to know the causes. Whatever the issue, we should be able to see the complete picture. This will enable us to comprehend the whole story. The teachings offered in Buddhism are based on rationality, and I think are very fruitful.

Today, a lot of people from different religious backgrounds are present here. In every religion, there are transcendent things that are beyond the grasp of our mind and speech. For example, the concept of God in Christianity and Islam and that of wisdom truth body in Buddhism are metaphysical, which is not possible for an ordinary person like us to realise. This is a common difficulty faced by every religion. It is taught in every ­religion, including Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism and Islam, that the ultimate truth is driven by faith.

I want to emphasise that it is extremely important for practitioners to sincerely believe in their respective religions. Usually, I say that it is very important to distinguish between "belief in one religion" and "belief in many religions". The former directly contradicts the latter. Therefore, we should resolutely resolve these contradictions. This is possible only by thinking in contextual terms. A contradiction in one context might not be the same in the other. In the context of one person, a single truth is closely associated with a single source of refuge. This is of extreme necessity. However, in the context of society or more than one person it is necessary to have different sources of refuge, religions and truths.

In the past it was not a major problem because nations remained aloof from each other with their own distinct religion. However, in today's close and inter-connected world there are so many differences amongst various religions. We must obviously resolve these problems. For example, there have been a lot of religions in India for the past thousand years. Some of them were imported from outside whereas some have grown in India itself. Despite this, the fact is that these religions have been able to coexist with each other, and the principle of Ahimsa has really flourished in this country. Even today, this principle has a strong bearing on every religion. This is very precious and India should really take pride in it.

Ladakh has been a predominantly Buddhist area 'for so many centuries. But other religions such as Islam, Christianity, Hinduism and Sikhism have also flourished here. Although it is natural for the people of Ladakh to have attachment to and love for their own religions, yet this place has a very peaceful environment with no major problems of religious intolerance. During my maiden visit to Ladakh, I heard elderly Muslims using the phrase "community of sangha" in their speeches. Although such phrases are not found in Islam, yet a reference of this kind invokes a lot of trust amongst the Buddhists. Therefore, people from different religious background in Ladakh are very close to each other and live in harmony.

As far as the Muslims are concerned it is appropriate for them to have complete devotion to Allah while praying in the mosques. This is also the same with Buddhists who are completely devoted to the Buddha when they pray in Buddhist temples. A society, which has many religions should also have many prophets and sources of refuge. In such a society it is very important to have harmony and respect amongst the different religions and their practitioners. We must distinguish between belief and respect. Belief refers to total faith, which you must have in your own religion. At the same time you should have respect for all other religions. This tradition of believing in one's own religion and having respect for others is in existence in Ladakh since your forefathers. Therefore you do not have to invent it. The most important thing at the moment is to preserve and promote this tradition. I would like to thank all of you for working hard regarding this and request you to continue to do so in the future.

If a harmonious relationship is established amongst societies and religious beliefs in today's multi-ethnic, multi-religious and multi-cultural world, then it will surely set a very good example for others. However, if all the sides become careless, then there is a danger of imminent problems. In a multi­ethnic  society  the biggest problem is that of between the majority and the minority. For instance, in the capital Leh, Buddhists constitute the majority of the population whereas Muslims belong to the minority community. The majority must consider the minority as their invited guests. The minority, on the other hand, should be able to sensitise with the majority. In other words, both sides should live in harmony. In order to sustain this harmony, both sides should not take lightly the sensitive issues between themselves. Indeed, the majority should pay attention to and appreciate the views and opinion of the minority. Both sides should discuss and clearly express what they think about the other's view and opinion. The minority, on the other hand, should be careful about where the sensitive issues of the majority lies and express whatever doubts they have in their minds. If problems are resolved in such a friendly manner; then both sides will gain. Suspicion of each other will only harm both communities. Therefore, it is very important to live in harmony and analyse where the opinion of the other lies. The best way to do this is to engage in dialogue, dialogue and dialogue.

Excerpts from His Holiness the Dalai Lama's address to the inter-faith seminar organised by the International Association for Religious Freedom, Ladakh Group, in Leh on 25 August.

New Age Seductions

By V. K. Bronz

I would like to share a personal experience I had about 37 years ago. I realize there are many who don’t believe in God or the supernatural abilities people have, so I ask that you please don’t just dismiss what I have written the minute you see the word God. After all personal experiences should not be pushed aside just because our personal beliefs are being tested.

When I first got saved I was totally ignorant of the gifts the Lord has given each Christian that he might overcome the wiles of the enemy, never the less the Lord taught me quickly.

I had a voracious appetite for the Lord and I wanted to know everything I possibly could regarding the things of the Lord; I read and read everything I could get my hands on, until one day I was reading an auto biography of a turn of the century saint, As I read I felt in my spirit a change of the spirit behind the words. What was even more strange, is I recognized the “feel” of the spirit that was in those words. I know this is a strange statement but as I read that autobiography it was written by one person and the sentence I had just read was written by a different person; I could feel the difference plain as day. I looked at the producers of the book and sure enough it was the “spirit” of the person I had recognized when I read that one sentence!

The producers of that book had changed the wording to have it mean something entirely different than what the original author had intended.

Fast forward thirty years later and I was writing on the holiness of God when I noticed in the footnotes of a very old book a reference to “The Book of Enoch”. Somewhere out there was supposedly another book of the bible that was not included in the bible. This book had been “found” during the second century.

I began to research and quickly found that this “lost” book of the bible had been translated in the seventies. I began to read it and was so blessed by the praises of our God expressed by the Angels and the story of Enoch’s close knit little family sharing the word to each other. What word you say, back then before it was written, the wonderful knowledge the Angels came down and began to share with them. Yes, this book said the Angels came down and began to share all the hidden knowledge of the creation of the world. They introduced themselves giving their names and who they were. I felt a check in my spirit (unease) because it has been my experience Angels never point to themselves they point you to God. I pushed the check aside because their praise of God had touched me so.

As I read my spirit kept feeling a coldness almost like what you see in some of these movies out now that are all black and dark metallic looking and feeling. I pushed it aside and kept reading because after-all the angels were praising God so beautifully. When it came time for the Angels to explain to Enoch (the angels had taken him to heaven to show the wonders of God) who that third person was with God and the Holy Spirit, they didn't say he would be the savior of the world they did say he was the son of god but no mention of the sinless lamb of God. It was like oh that’s the son of God. Period. On to next subject. The red flags flew, the alarm bells rang, yet I still dismissed this by thinking, well this is before the Lord came to earth .

I also took notice that every time the Angels were in heaven with Enoch and they saw God, he was always at a distance and was not approachable. Now if God had sent his Angels to tell this little family of Adam and Eve all the secrets of the universe why would he never have anything to do with Enoch when he came to heaven? Remember Enoch walked with God and was not. God walked with him on the earth their relationship was so close that he took him to heaven without death on a chariot. And God is our Father he has a loving father’s heart, why would there be no fellowship with Enoch like there was on earth.

As I came to the end of the story there was reference to a “Book of Noah” so I quickly read it. I was so put off by the blatant fantastical description of Noah’s son Lemech sitting up at his birth praising god with bazaar looking features of red eyes and snow white hair and skin, but as I read it I felt that same coldness I felt with “The Book of Enoch”.

When I was finished reading the Holy Spirit prompted me to go to the word; as I began to read the word of God I felt the familiar sweet soft loving presence of the Lord who is the word, as I read I immediately knew the cold distant dead word I had just read was NOT from God. Not only did I feel the presence of the Lord as the word, I had a vision; the life that is the word was coming off of the page like a fog and entering into me. I began to cry and thank the Lord for his Holy Spirit who leads us into all truth; at that moment I knew if I had received that false book I would have received the false “demon” or spirit that was attached to it and forever more it would have perverted the true word of God in me. I was and still am shocked at the enemy’s ability to be the angel of light, there seemed to be no difference between him and the Lord. The difference is indiscernible; had it not been for the loving Lord showing me, it would have fooled me.

Oh people, this is what This New Age has done, authors and preachers take what feels good and sounds good twisting the truth just enough to get us to except it, using a different word that sounds close, changing other peoples words to mean what benefits them and in receiving what they say we receive damnation because we are excepting demons unaware. Even the number one bible translator in the world; Wycliffe, has fallen. They have taken the words Father and son out of the bible translations because it offends Muslims. No longer will people read Jesus is the son of God but now they have changed it to he is Lord. No longer will people read God is our Father but it will read Allah. I was tempted to do the same when I wrote this article. I knew the minute I mentioned the word God many would stop reading; but I can’t let the desire to have my experience heard cause me to omit part of the truth. I would be just as guilty. I feel so sorry for those so afraid of having their beliefs challenged that they can’t even respect each other enough to hear what they are saying.

But then again if we read more of other peoples words than Gods we won’t know him, just a shadow of him and The age old trick of Satan, to take the truth and ever so slightly twist it so it no longer means what God said, but now is a pathway to hell, will be effectively used on us.

Anytime we are told there is hidden knowledge or secrets no one else knows BEWARE this is where the Mormons got their religion. The “Angels” told John Smith the secrets of attaining paradise. Anytime anyone such as Rick Warren or any person tries to tell you your purpose is something different than Loving the Lord God with all of your heart soul mind and body run like hell. If there is a supernatural world out there then it stands to reason there has to be the one who created it. There is nothing more glorious and holy then being given the honor and position of Sons of God.

The Paranormal Christian – Freemasonry: Christian or Occult?

By Pastor Michael Frisbee, DD/DM

Though Freemasonry is not considered by many as a subject or a part of the paranormal, there are many aspects of Freemasonry that falls into special rituals, oaths, and such that fall into a quasi-religious aspect, and I will outline, have a pagan and non-Christian origin.  As always, I know I will be stepping on a lot of toes here, but considering the dangers for Christian and my mission to shine the light of God’s Truth, I feel that I must tackle this age old subject.

There is a great deal out there regarding Freemasonry.  For those who only have a passing awareness of this organization, here is a description:

Freemasonry is a fraternal organization that arose from obscure origins in the late 16th to early 17th century. Freemasonry now exists in various forms all over the world, with a membership estimated at around six million, including approximately 150,000 under the jurisdictions of the Grand Lodge of Scotland and Grand Lodge of Ireland, over a quarter of a million under the jurisdiction of the United Grand Lodge of England and just under two million in the United States.

The fraternity is administratively organized into independent Grand Lodges or sometimes Orients, each of which governs its own jurisdiction, which consists of subordinate (or constituent) Lodges. The various Grand Lodges recognize each other, or not, based upon adherence to landmarks (a Grand Lodge will usually deem other Grand Lodges who share common landmarks to be regular, and those that do not to be "irregular" or "clandestine").

There are also appendant bodies, which are organizations related to the main branch of Freemasonry, but with their own independent administration.
Source – Wikipedia - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freemasonry

The most basic unit is your local “Masonic Lodge”.  Members join and begin as initiates known as an Entered Apprentice.  The member then works through the various rituals and requirements to attain the 2nd degree, titled Fellow Craft.  Then upon completing the various goals for advancement, becomes a Master Mason.  This comprises what is called the Blue Lodge Masonry.  Once completing the three degrees of the Blue Lodge, a mason is then allowed to go into either the Scottish rite of Freemasonry which has 32 degrees or the York rite which has 13 degrees. These are advanced degrees, where you pay more dues, and expect to learn (and don't) the secrets of Freemasonry. As one progresses through the degree work of these rites, they tell you that you are on a quest to find the lost name of God.

The most disturbing part of Freemasonry is the large number of Christians that have come under sway and membership of this organization.  They are drawn by the alleged networking of fellow businessmen, of the community work being done, etc.  Back in 1993, the Southern Baptist Convention took notice of this, formed an investigative commission, and it created a report that was one of the most in-depth.  There were eight areas of concern the commission identified as being “contrary to Christian belief.”

1) Freemasonry uses offensive, non-biblical, and blasphemous terms relating to God.
2) Freemasonry insists on the use of “bloody oaths” or obligations, which are strictly forbidden by the Bible (Matt.5:34-37).
3) Freemasonry urges that occultic and/or pagan readings be used, and that their teachings be appropriated in interpreting such concepts as the Trinity.
4) Freemasonry includes the Bible as part of the “furniture of the lodge,” but only as an equal with non-Christian symbols and writings.
5) Freemasonry misuses the term “light” to refer to moral “reformation” as a means to salvation.
6) Freemasonry teaches that salvation may be attained by “good works” and not through faith in Christ alone.
7) Freemasonry advocates in many of its writings the non-biblical teachings of universalism.
8) In some of its lodges, Freemasonry discriminates against nonwhites.
Source - Annual of the Southern Baptist Convention, 1993

Under the Scottish Rite, once you achieve the 33rd Degree, you can now join additional advancement organizations, such as the Shriners.  We all recognize them, Red Fezzes, funny little cars at the parades, they have a front of doing great works in the community, much leaning towards charity work for children.

What many ignore is the very symbolism of what they proudly display.  The fez itsef is an affront to Christianity.  So named after the city of Fez, Morocco…which by the way has been the site of numerous documented massacres of both Jews and Christians by various Muslim conquerors. The Fez is a distinctly Muslim symbol and, at least indirectly, celebrates the Muslim conquest of the area.

The emblem found on the fez is that of Muslim origin. It contains the Arabic pagan god symbols of the Crescent Moon and Star, originally the symbol of the Ottomon Empire, now an international symbol of Islam. The symbols are hung under a "scimitar" or an Arabic sword of war. This is the sword that has killed the "infidels" down through the ages under Muslim conquest.

The Shriner meets in a "temple" most of which have distinctly Arabic names. They are often built to resemble a Mosque. He wears his fez with the Muslim symbols on it. He takes his oaths and says his prayers in the name of ALLAH. Many of his secret passwords and code phrases are in Arabic, which he is required to memorize in order to be in the "order".

Candidates for induction into the Shriners are greeted by a High Priest, who says: “By the existence of Allah and the creed of Mohammed; by the legendary sanctity of our Tabernacle at Mecca, we greet you.”  The inductees then swear on the Bible and the Koran, in the name of Mohammed, and invoke Masonry's usual gruesome penalties upon themselves:

“I do hereby, upon this Bible, and on the mysterious legend of the Koran, and its dedication to the Mohammedan faith, promise and swear and vow that I will never reveal any secret part or portion whatsoever of the ceremonies and now upon this sacred book, by the sincerity of a Moslem's oath I here register this irrevocable vow in willful violation whereof may I incur the fearful penalty of having my eyeballs pierced to the center with a three-edged blade, my feet flayed and I be forced to walk the hot sands upon the sterile shores of the Red Sea until the flaming sun shall strike me with livid plague, and may Allah, the god of Arab, Moslem and Mohammedan, the god of our fathers, support me to the entire fulfillment of the same. Amen. Amen. Amen."


Source - Excerpt from The Origins and Influence of Masonry by Lee Penn, SCP Journal Vol. 25:2-25:3 2001

With this oath, Christians swear on the Koran, and declare Allah to be the god of our fathers. From the perspective of Christianity and Islam alike, Shriners take the name of God in vain, and mock both faiths.  I know many Shriners will deny this, but many who have left and re-committed their lives to Christ have shared this truth.

Tomorrow night, Rev. Hunneman and I will cover in more detail what the SBC found, as well as other researchers into Freemasonry.  There is a great deal that is not openly shared, and what many do not know, is that there are degrees above the 33rd.  Join us tomorrow at 7 PM EST – show link can be found at http://www.theparanormalchristian.com