Dalai Lama in Discussions with Youth Leaders from Conflict Zones

His Holiness the Dalai Lama in Discussions with Youth Leaders from Conflict Zones

Thekchen Chöling, Dharamsala, HP, India - For the third year in a row the United States Institute of Peace (USIP) has brought a group of youth leaders from conflict zones to meet His Holiness the Dalai Lama. USIP is a nonpartisan and independent institution tasked with promoting national security and global stability by reducing violent conflicts abroad.

Led by USIP President Nancy Lindborg, the 27 youth leaders, and three who came last year but who are now assisting as trainers, came from 12 different countries: Afghanistan, Burma, the Central African Republic, Colombia, Iraq, Libya, Nigeria, Somalia, South Sudan, Syria, Tunisia and Venezuela.

When His Holiness entered the room today he bid them all, "Good morning," and shook hands with members of the morning's first panel.

"I really enjoy this kind of meeting," he told them. "My main practice is to dedicate my body, speech and mind to the benefit of others. I can't help any of you by cleaning your houses, but at least I can smile. Usually one smile invokes another. It's quite rare for a smile to be met with a frown. And just as I dedicate my physical actions to the benefit of others, so do I direct my speech, but the main thing is that I dedicate my mind to fulfilling others' well-being—not just today, but for as long as space remains. However, when I sit in meditation I'm by myself, but when I'm with people like you I can smile and use my voice too. Thank you for giving me this opportunity."

Nancy Lindborg guided the conversation by calling on youth leaders to introduce themselves and put their questions to His Holiness. The first, posed by a delegate from Venezuela, was about whether it is possible to achieve peace when you have no freedom.

"There are different levels of peace," His Holiness told her, describing his own experience of life in a conflict zone. "When Chinese Communists first invaded Tibet their control of the country was not so tight. In 1954 I went to Beijing to attend the People's Congress. I met Chairman Mao several times. He didn't conduct himself like a political leader. He behaved like an old farmer who'd become a revolutionary. I developed some respect for him and the other party leaders I met. We discussed the history of the revolution and Marx's ideas. I was attracted then as now to his socio-economic theories, especially the notion of equal distribution.

"However, during the Bolshevik Revolution, Lenin spoiled things with his war-time mentality and the perpetuation of secrecy, suspicion and suppression. These attitudes led directly to totalitarianism. Eventually Stalin made things worse. Nevertheless, I found that in the early years, Chinese revolutionary leaders were really dedicated, but once they tasted power it seems exercising it became more important than ideology. This is what produced the Cultural Revolution. Good, straightforward, honest people were dismissed, while cunning individuals like Zhou Enlai survived.

"As I returned home in 1955 I met General Zhang Guohua on the way and told him that when I set out the previous year I had been apprehensive, but I was returning full of confidence. Yet from 1956 onwards it seems the Chinese officials grew more suspicious of me. At the same time, reform was ruthlessly imposed, starting in Eastern Tibet, which caused the people to revolt. However, the former servants of Tibetan feudal landlords showed them kindness by letting them know when they were about to be subjected to class-struggle sessions enabling some of them to escape to India.

"Many people fled Eastern Tibet and congregated in Lhasa. In 1959, when the Chinese invited me to attend some dance performance, the public were very suspicious and surrounded the Norbulingka Palace to protect me. I tried to reassure them and wrote letters to the Chinese to no avail. I received a message from a former high Tibetan official asking me to identify where I was staying in the Norbulingka, but it wasn't clear whether the purpose was to protect or target me. On 17th March we decided to leave. On 20th March Chinese forces bombarded Lhasa and incidentally shelled my residence at Norbulingka. It seems the decision to escape was correct and here in India I've been able to contribute to a greater sense of peace of mind."

His Holiness went on to explain how in exile the focus had been on preserving Tibetan culture and identity by educating Tibetan children. He called this a realistic approach mentioning that resorting to anger and violence is self-destructive and leads to harsher suppression. He stressed that violence is the wrong method to bring about change. Nancy Lindborg added that USIP has evidence to that non-violence is consistently more effective in the long run.

His Holiness noted that there are now estimated to be 400 million Buddhists in China, many of whom appreciate the value of Tibetan Buddhism. He remarked that while the Chinese could bring material development and physical comfort to Tibet, Tibetans can offer China spiritual development and peace of mind. The key, he said, is to remain determined, to be realistic and to take action.

"We have recorded ancient Indian knowledge of the workings of the mind and emotions in the books we translated from Sanskrit. We address problems by tackling the mind and emotions and building inner strength. After 70 years, employing all kinds of methods, the Chinese have failed to dent the Tibetan spirit."

Responding to a question about the role of women, His Holiness observed that women have been shown to be more sensitive to others' suffering. Conversely, heroes celebrated for killing their opponents are almost always men. In a Buddhist context, he said, we refer to other beings as ‘all mother sentient beings' in acknowledgment of their kindness. He reiterated advice he often gives about the need to see more women in leadership roles and more closely involved in education about compassion. He quoted former President of Ireland and human rights campaigner, Mary Robinson, as referring to him as a ‘feminist Dalai Lama'.

His Holiness confirmed the importance of using technology wherever possible to overcome a lack of knowledge. He recalled that in Tibet the primary source of news from the outside world was the Muslim traders who travelled to and from India. He observed that people in more isolated countries are more likely to think in terms of one truth, one religion. This approach is fine on a personal level, he said, but the reality of the world we live in is that there are several major religions and truth can have many aspects.

Noting that many problems we face arise from a basic lack of moral principles, His Holiness recommended training the mind, cultivating a deeper concern for the well-being of others. Such concern arises naturally when we regard other people as brothers and sisters.

“We have to remember that each and every one of us is a part of humanity. We need to be determined to achieve positive change, but also need to be able to take a long view of what needs to be done. What is important is not to become demoralized. Optimism leads to success; pessimism leads to defeat. One person can be the source of inspiration for many others. Those of us who practise Buddhism aim to achieve Buddhahood, which is almost impossible for most of us, but the very aspiration gives us inner strength.

“This kind of meeting gives me confidence that we are waking up. We can achieve change in the world. We can cause the seeds of good to grow. We need to be firm in our aims and tackle them together. Some years ago, a meeting of Nobel Peace Laureates agreed on the urgent need to eliminate nuclear weapons, but if such a goal is to be achieved we need set a timetable and stick to it, attracting others to the cause.”

A youth leader from South Sudan who came to Dharamsala last year and who has returned this year as a trainer gave a brief appraisal of the two meetings she had attended with His Holiness.

“I was here last year and I’m so happy to have been able to come back again. I feel you live by what you say. You are a world leader we can relate to. Your peace of mind is an inspiration. I see all of us going back like Dalai Lamas to bring peace to our own places. I’m happy to know that you are a feminist Dalai Lama. Thank you for sparing some of your time for us here.”

Answering a final question about peace-building His Holiness declared,

“Ideas may travel from the top down, but the movements that will put them into effect have to work from the bottom up. I am very encouraged to see how young people like you are trying to bring about positive change. We have good grounds to be confident because our efforts are based on truth and reason—therefore we will succeed. 

“We are working for the good of humanity. I don’t think of myself just as a Tibetan or a Buddhist, but as a human being. We have to think of the whole of humanity. Being human is the common ground in our efforts to create a better world. Remember, we all survive in dependence on others.”

Nancy Lindborg expressed thanks to everyone who had contributed to making the meetings fruitful including the staff of His Holiness’s Office, of USIP and Radio Free Asia. She offered His Holiness a USIP peace cap, which he put on with a smile. His parting advice was that this kind of meeting comes about as a result of the co-operation of individuals.

“Everyone wants to live a happy life, but many don’t know how it’s to be done. In time, and with effort, we can change that.”

original link & photos: https://www.dalailama.com/news/2018/his-holiness-the-dalai-lama-in-discussions-with-youth-leaders-from-conflict-zones

Dalai Lama on Understanding the World

Dialogue between Russian and Buddhist Scholars - Understanding the World

Thekchen Chöling, Dharamsala, HP, India - This morning, under stormy skies, His Holiness the Dalai Lama walked from his residence to the Tsuglagkhang, to take part in a second Dialogue between Russian and Buddhist Scholars - Understanding the World. The event was organized by the Center of Tibetan Culture and Information (Moscow), Save Tibet Foundation (Moscow), and the Dalai Lama Trust, with the support of the Center for Consciousness Studies at the Lomonosov Moscow State University and the Institute of Philosophy, Russian Academy of Sciences.

In the temple, he paid his respects before the statue of Buddha Shakyamuni and saluted the monks sitting nearby. He then turned to greet old friends among the nine Russian scientists gathered round a table in the main body of the temple. The remaining space was filled by about 150 observers including 75 Russians, 18 Tibetan monks who have experience of studying science, 17 students from the Institute of Buddhist Dialectics, Sarah, 25 from the Men-tsee-khang, 50 students from the Tibetan Children’s Village, three from Tong-len and two teachers from the Dharamsala Government College, in addition to 18 guests of the Ganden Phodrang.

Telo Rinpoche, Representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama at the Office of Tibet in Moscow, briefly introduced this second Dialogue between Russian and Buddhist Scholars in Dharamsala. He welcomed the Russian scientists, as well as people viewing the webcast online, noting that proceedings were being made available in English, Russian, Chinese and Tibetan.

Moderator Prof Konstantin Anokhin thanked His Holiness for taking part in the meeting. He informed him that all the participants had read and been impressed by his book ‘Universe in a Single Atom’ and they intended to found this dialogue on ideas taken from it. He asked if His Holiness had any remarks to open with.

“Brothers and sisters, that’s what I believe we 7 billion human beings are,” His Holiness began. “A lot of the problems we face today are of our own making. And yet scientists say that our basic human nature is essentially compassionate. We create problems because we are under the sway of emotions and because we view other people in terms of ‘us’ and ‘them’. Out of short-sightedness we forget that we are all part of humanity, which leads to our doing others harm. We consider that the destruction of our foes is our victory, and in the past that may have been true. But, today, we are so interdependent that when others are harmed, we’re harmed as well, besides which we have to deal with problems like climate change that affect us all.

“What’s more, at this very moment, people are being killed elsewhere in places like Syria and Yemen, while others are dying of starvation. And worst of all there are people killing each other in the name of religion. We contradict our compassionate nature out of a short-sighted failure to recognise the oneness of 7 billion human beings.

“As social animals we depend on our community so the time has come to educate people about our all being the same in being human. Our future depends on each other. Being too self-centred is to be unrealistic. Narrow minded self-interest is uneducated thinking.

“For thousands of years religious traditions have conveyed a message of love for all human beings, but with limited effect. Now, modern education is oriented towards materialistic goals instead. And yet it is our common experience to have been born and cared for by our mothers, consequently young children reveal a fresh, compassionate nature.

“Scientists warn that constant fear and anger are bad for our health, while being compassionate and warm-hearted contributes to our physical and mental well-being. Therefore, just as we observe physical hygiene to stay well, we need to cultivate a kind of emotional hygiene too.”

His Holiness mentioned that he has been engaged in dialogue with scientists focused on cosmology, neurobiology, physics and psychology for more than 30 years. He noted that these are fields modern science and Buddhist science have in common. For example, there is a general agreement about the arising, abiding and destruction of galaxies and the possibility of there having been more than one ‘big bang’ in the past.

As far as physics is concerned, His Holiness reported that nuclear physicist Raja Ramana had told him that quantum physics was new to science, but corresponding concepts can be found in the writings of the Buddhist master Nagarjuna. In terms of psychology, there is a need for more education about how to tackle our emotions. His Holiness remarked that we need to learn how destructive anger and a general lack of concern for others can be. Weapons and the use of force solve no problems, he added, confirming that violence just leads to counter violence, and so it goes on.

He advised that a peaceful mind is good for our health and that our goal should be to avoid violence and make this a century of dialogue. He observed that while not everyone accepts religion any more, scientific findings have a more universal appeal. Therefore, one of the purposes of meetings like this is to discuss how to educate people from a secular point of view of the need to cultivate warm-heartedness.

“In this context,” His Holiness said, “Russia has a particular role between the cultures of East and West. When I was young, there were Russian scholars, Buryats, Kalmyks and Tuvans, in our monasteries, so we already have a connection. Also, during the time of the 13th Dalai Lama, there was some contact with the Tsar.  Accordingly, I’m very happy to have this opportunity to meet and hold discussions with you scholars from Russia.”

Neurobiologist Prof Pavel Balaban opened the conversation, telling His Holiness that he studies the brain, especially the function of the emotions. He remarked that while rats can be shown to have pleasure centres in their brains that can be stimulated revealing an emotional response, he is also interested to see if apparently uncommunicative snails also have emotions.

His Holiness was prompted to repeat a question he often puts to scientists. He explained how sometimes, when he is confident there is no malaria present, he allows a mosquito to drink his blood. However, once it is full it flies off with no sign of appreciation. So, his question is how big does a brain have to be before it’s capable of showing appreciation? Balaban reported that his investigation of rats showed that they are like other species among which 30-40% reveal a natural sense of compassion. His Holiness responded that mammals do seem to respond this way, but it would be interesting to observe reptiles like turtles that hatch from eggs with no direct relationship to a mother and no immediate need for compassion to survive.

His Holiness recommended that as human beings we need to assess whether anger has any value---noting that it destroys our peace of mind. Compassion, on the other hand, brings optimism and hope. He remarked that some religious traditions rely on fear to bring about better behaviour. He rejects this because it tends instead to lead to pessimism and discouragement.

His Holiness introduced two questions related to the mind. Regarding the first he asked if a perfect sperm meets a perfect ovum in a perfect womb, will life begin? And if not, what is the third factor? Secondly, he mentioned a phenomenon observed among some accomplished meditators when they die. Although clinical death has taken place, the body remains fresh for some days because, it is said, the subtlest consciousness still remains. So far, scientists have no answer as to what’s going on.

Until late in the 20th century scientists took interest in the brain, but not the mind, he said. However, more recently they have acknowledged that neuroplasticity can be observed as a result of mental training. Consequently the relationship between the brain and the mind is beginning to be investigated. Buddhist science describes different levels of mind, ordinary sensory consciousness, awareness in the dream state that is subtler, in deep sleep that is subtler still and the consciousness that manifests at the time of death that is subtlest of all. His Holiness indicated that this mind has neither beginning nor end.

Prof Svyatoslav Medvedev told His Holiness that he has examined the nature of the relation between mind and brain in connection with his research into how the brain maintains attention. He remarked that there are things like the laws of thermodynamics that can be demonstrated mathematically but are not easily proved by experiment. He favours taking a more logical approach to some questions. He noted that Pavlov had referred to bright spots on the brain, but it is only now, a century later, that it has been possible to demonstrate what he was talking about.

“We are now moving from pure theory to actual practice,” Medvedev asserted. “We are trying to understand the brain. It may be that consciousness exists separately and that the brain is a kind of interface.”

Summarizing the three instances of the Buddha’s teachings known as the turnings of the wheel of dharma, His Holiness explained that in the first he taught the four noble truths. In the second he elaborated on the third of those truths, the cessation of suffering in relation to overcoming ignorance. Ignorance is defeated by knowledge—in this case an understanding of the reality that things are empty of intrinsic existence. That does not imply nothingness but that things only exist by way of designation. His Holiness clarified that for those who found this explanation too difficult to deal with, the Buddha gave a third group of teachings that took a different approach in discussing consciousness and how the subtlest consciousness can be thought of as Buddha nature.

He further touched on three objects of knowledge—things that are obvious to us, things that are slightly obscure but can be understood through reason and inference, and things that are obscure and can only be understood by relying on others’ testimony. In addition he mentioned the four principles of reason—nature, dependence, function and evidence.

Following a short break for tea, Prof Nikolai Yankovsky, a leading Russian expert on genetics explained that genes can affect whether you are inclined to meditate or benefit from psychological therapy. Similarly, genes can affect susceptibility to anger. His Holiness wondered whether the role of genes may be comparable to the role of subtle energy that goes together with the mind described in the tantras.

Yankovsky said that editing gene code is expected to contribute to remedies for certain kinds of illness. He also remarked that genetic manipulation could be used in the form of a weapon, which raises the question of morality. He pointed out that when scientists make a new discovery morality is not necessarily an issue, but once they try to use it in practice, the question of ethics arises. His Holiness responded that since all sentient beings seek happiness, what brings about benefit and happiness is regarded as good, whereas what causes suffering is regarded as bad.

He also made clear that since anger is part of the mind, its antidote has to be applied within the mind. He observed that scientists have confirmed to him that rocks and the brain consist of the same kind of particles at a subtle level. At a certain point the arrangement of matter in the brain is such that it becomes a basis for consciousness. Then life, a being with feelings of pleasure and pain occurs. He encouraged the scientists to take this up with younger scholars whose brains are fresher in the afternoon.

Prof Evgeny Rogaev described his research into the brain, looking at what genes give rise to schizophrenia. He stated that genetic research confirms His Holiness’s assertion that we are all brothers and sisters and that we do not have to go very far back to find that we all have ancestors in common. He spoke of work that is being done to create models for transforming aggressive into peaceful behaviour involving taming Siberian wild foxes.

Prof Alexander Kaplan told His Holiness of the interest his students in Moscow are taking in this meeting. He mentioned his attempts to make direct contact with the brain in work with stroke victims who have lost the ability to speak or move. He described how their choice of letters displayed on a screen can be gleaned from responses in their brains that enable communication to take place. He sees this as having potential for understanding the workings of emotions in otherwise healthy people.

His Holiness commented that the innermost subtle consciousness that is described as Buddha-nature has immense potential and people are trying to explore it, but it will take a great deal of time.

He concluded the session by thanking everyone for coming and assuring them he would see them again tomorrow. He left the temple and returned to his residence. Participants in and observers of the meeting then enjoyed lunch served in the temple yard and gathered for another session of discussions in the afternoon.

original link & photos: https://www.dalailama.com/news/2018/dialogue-between-russian-and-buddhist-scholars-understanding-the-world

The Difference Between Armageddon & the Apocalypse

Hello my para beauties! I trust you've had a wonderful weekend. A lot of this in my humble opinion of what I interpret the bible to be stating. By no means do I claim to state anything is fact. Only God knows when the 2nd coming is and what other details take place in these events.

What exactly is Armageddon? Is it a place or an event? It takes place during the Apocalypse. Who will take part in it? What does the Bible really say? Over 1,900 years ago, while exiled on an island off the Greek coast, the apostle John recorded what would happen, culminating in our time. In vision, he was taken forward in time into the “Lord’s Day” (Rev. 1:10) and was given messages regarding “...things which are, and things which shall be hereafter” (1:19).

Most of what John saw in vision was foreign to him. He had to record things in a way that could be understood. For instance, how would someone from the first century describe a helicopter gunship? What about a jet—or nuclear explosion? Jesus would have inspired him to use symbols or items familiar to him. The prophet Daniel spoke of “the TIME OF THE END.” The apostle Peter said, “there shall come in the LAST DAYS scoffers.” Paul said, “In the LAST DAYS perilous times shall come.”…some may say John wasn't in his right right mind being locked up so very long however, what if you are wrong? What then?

The Bible foretells a period of seven trumpets blown, each heralding its own terrible event. Now in my last 2 blogs I spoke of the 7 trumpets/seals. Throughout history, trumpet blasts have been used as warnings of imminent danger, such as war or another calamity (Zeph. 1:16; Jer. 4:19; Ezek. 33:2-6).

However, the seventh (or last) trumpet will announce to the world that Jesus Christ is coming to establish God’s rule on Earth. Man’s way of governance is ending. Also heralded by this final trumpet are the seven last plagues (also bowls or vials of wrath) God will use to punish a rebellious mankind. Revelation describes seven angels who “pour out the vials of the wrath of God upon the earth” (Rev. 16:1).

When the first vial is poured out, “there fell a noisome and grievous sore upon the men which had the mark of the beast” (vs. 2). These belong to the great, false church-state system. (More on this in a moment.)

The second plague mirrors what the Egyptians suffered before the Exodus: “The second angel poured out his vial upon the sea; and it became as the blood of a dead man: and every living soul died in the sea” (vs. 3).

The next three plagues involve the rivers and fountains turning to blood, the sun becoming so hot it scorches people, and darkness and pain becoming unbearable. After all these plagues, men will continue to “blaspheme the God of heaven because of their pains and their sores, and repent not of their deeds” (vs. 11).

The last generation before Jesus’ Return is so vile and corrupt that God will subject them to the worst punishment possible—and they still will not repent.

The Important Sixth Plague
The sixth of the last plagues sets the stage for the final battle to resist Christ at His Return. Forces of spiritual wickedness—demons—are released to gather armies to bring about destruction and devastation on the inhabitants of Earth. Notice how these armies are able to gather: “The sixth angel poured out his vial upon the great river Euphrates; and the water thereof was dried up, that the way of the kings of the east might be prepared” (Rev. 16:12).

The Euphrates River originates in Turkey and flows southeast through Syria and Iraq, finally reaching the Persian Gulf. God will cause this river to dry up, enabling, it says, the “kings of the east” to easily cross into the Holy Land. But this is just a prelude—the setting of the stage for even more significant events to come.

Apocalypse is actually the Greek Name for the word translated "Revelation" in the Bible. It is the name of the last book of the Bible. It earned its name because of its overall description of the world-changing events that occur during the timeline of this book.

Armageddon, is both a place and now referred to as an event. It is the largest battlefield on earth, where a future battle is foretold between the armies of the earth and the returning King of Glory Jesus Christ. It is said that the blood of these armies will run as deep as the reins of horses in some places, and that the fuel supplies will heat the homes of the Palestinians for 7 years. Also, the birds of the whole earth will gather to eat to their full on the flesh of the dead soldiers.
Fuente(s).

I could go on and on here and even debate with many. Many have different opinions of this and that it ok. This is simply my humble opinions of what I've read and studied and heard my dear father Rev Auld speak of. I am only bringing my opinion, I don't seek to debate what is rightfully mine. My opinion. It makes you think though doesn't it?

Written By Jennifer L Auld
Originally posted on 3/8/14.

The Difference Between Armageddon And The Apocalypse

Hello my para beauties! I trust you've had a wonderful weekend. I'm feeling much better and ready to answer some questions that have come in to me. A lot of this in my humble opinion of what I interpret the bible to be stating. By no means do I claim to state anything is fact. Only God knows when the 2nd coming is and what other details take place in these events.

What exactly is Armageddon? Is it a place or an event? It takes place during the Apocalypse. Who will take part in it? What does the Bible really say? Over 1,900 years ago, while exiled on an island off the Greek coast, the apostle John recorded what would happen, culminating in our time. In vision, he was taken forward in time into the “Lord’s Day” (Rev. 1:10) and was given messages regarding “...things which are, and things which shall be hereafter” (1:19).

Most of what John saw in vision was foreign to him. He had to record things in a way that could be understood. For instance, how would someone from the first century describe a helicopter gunship? What about a jet—or nuclear explosion? Jesus would have inspired him to use symbols or items familiar to him. The prophet Daniel spoke of “the TIME OF THE END.” The apostle Peter said, “there shall come in the LAST DAYS scoffers.” Paul said, “In the LAST DAYS perilous times shall come.”…some may say John wasn't in his right right mind being locked up so very long however, what if you are wrong? What then?

The Bible foretells a period of seven trumpets blown, each heralding its own terrible event. Now in my last 2 blogs I spoke of the 7 trumpets/seals. Throughout history, trumpet blasts have been used as warnings of imminent danger, such as war or another calamity (Zeph. 1:16; Jer. 4:19; Ezek. 33:2-6).

However, the seventh (or last) trumpet will announce to the world that Jesus Christ is coming to establish God’s rule on Earth. Man’s way of governance is ending. Also heralded by this final trumpet are the seven last plagues (also bowls or vials of wrath) God will use to punish a rebellious mankind. Revelation describes seven angels who “pour out the vials of the wrath of God upon the earth” (Rev. 16:1).

When the first vial is poured out, “there fell a noisome and grievous sore upon the men which had the mark of the beast” (vs. 2). These belong to the great, false church-state system. (More on this in a moment.)

The second plague mirrors what the Egyptians suffered before the Exodus: “The second angel poured out his vial upon the sea; and it became as the blood of a dead man: and every living soul died in the sea” (vs. 3).

The next three plagues involve the rivers and fountains turning to blood, the sun becoming so hot it scorches people, and darkness and pain becoming unbearable. After all these plagues, men will continue to “blaspheme the God of heaven because of their pains and their sores, and repent not of their deeds” (vs. 11).

The last generation before Jesus’ Return is so vile and corrupt that God will subject them to the worst punishment possible—and they still will not repent.

The Important Sixth Plague

The sixth of the last plagues sets the stage for the final battle to resist Christ at His Return. Forces of spiritual wickedness—demons—are released to gather armies to bring about destruction and devastation on the inhabitants of Earth. Notice how these armies are able to gather: “The sixth angel poured out his vial upon the great river Euphrates; and the water thereof was dried up, that the way of the kings of the east might be prepared” (Rev. 16:12).

The Euphrates River originates in Turkey and flows southeast through Syria and Iraq, finally reaching the Persian Gulf. God will cause this river to dry up, enabling, it says, the “kings of the east” to easily cross into the Holy Land. But this is just a prelude—the setting of the stage for even more significant events to come.

Apocalypse is actually the Greek Name for the word translated "Revelation" in the Bible. It is the name of the last book of the Bible. It earned its name because of its overal description of the world-changing events that occur during the timeline of this book.

Armageddon, is both a place and now referred to as an event. It is the largest battlefield on earth, where a future battle is foretold between the armies of the earth and the returning King of Glory Jesus Christ. It is said that the blood of these armies will run as deep as the reins of horses in some places, and that the fuel supplies will heat the homes of the Palestinians for 7 years. Also, the birds of the whole earth will gather to eat to their full on the flesh of the dead soldiers.
Fuente(s).

I could go on and on here and even debate with many. Many have different opinions of this and that it ok. This is simply my humble opinions of what I've read and studied and heard my dear father Rev Auld speak of. I am only bringing my opinion, I don't seek to debate what is rightfully mine. My opinion. It makes you think though doesn't it?

The Difference Between Armageddon And The Apocalypse

Hello my para beauties! I trust you've had a wonderful weekend. A lot of this in my humble opinion of what I interpret the bible to be stating. By no means do I claim to state anything is fact. Only God knows when the 2nd coming is and what other details take place in these events.

What exactly is Armageddon? Is it a place or an event? It takes place during the Apocalypse. Who will take part in it? What does the Bible really say? Over 1,900 years ago, while exiled on an island off the Greek coast, the apostle John recorded what would happen, culminating in our time. In vision, he was taken forward in time into the “Lord’s Day” (Rev. 1:10) and was given messages regarding “...things which are, and things which shall be hereafter” (1:19).

Most of what John saw in vision was foreign to him. He had to record things in a way that could be understood. For instance, how would someone from the first century describe a helicopter gunship? What about a jet—or nuclear explosion? Jesus would have inspired him to use symbols or items familiar to him. The prophet Daniel spoke of “the TIME OF THE END.” The apostle Peter said, “there shall come in the LAST DAYS scoffers.” Paul said, “In the LAST DAYS perilous times shall come.”…some may say John wasn't in his right right mind being locked up so very long however, what if you are wrong? What then?

The Bible foretells a period of seven trumpets blown, each heralding its own terrible event. Now in my last 2 blogs I spoke of the 7 trumpets/seals. Throughout history, trumpet blasts have been used as warnings of imminent danger, such as war or another calamity (Zeph. 1:16; Jer. 4:19; Ezek. 33:2-6).

However, the seventh (or last) trumpet will announce to the world that Jesus Christ is coming to establish God’s rule on Earth. Man’s way of governance is ending. Also heralded by this final trumpet are the seven last plagues (also bowls or vials of wrath) God will use to punish a rebellious mankind. Revelation describes seven angels who “pour out the vials of the wrath of God upon the earth” (Rev. 16:1).

When the first vial is poured out, “there fell a noisome and grievous sore upon the men which had the mark of the beast” (vs. 2). These belong to the great, false church-state system. (More on this in a moment.)

The second plague mirrors what the Egyptians suffered before the Exodus: “The second angel poured out his vial upon the sea; and it became as the blood of a dead man: and every living soul died in the sea” (vs. 3).

The next three plagues involve the rivers and fountains turning to blood, the sun becoming so hot it scorches people, and darkness and pain becoming unbearable. After all these plagues, men will continue to “blaspheme the God of heaven because of their pains and their sores, and repent not of their deeds” (vs. 11).

The last generation before Jesus’ Return is so vile and corrupt that God will subject them to the worst punishment possible—and they still will not repent.

The Important Sixth Plague
The sixth of the last plagues sets the stage for the final battle to resist Christ at His Return. Forces of spiritual wickedness—demons—are released to gather armies to bring about destruction and devastation on the inhabitants of Earth. Notice how these armies are able to gather: “The sixth angel poured out his vial upon the great river Euphrates; and the water thereof was dried up, that the way of the kings of the east might be prepared” (Rev. 16:12).

The Euphrates River originates in Turkey and flows southeast through Syria and Iraq, finally reaching the Persian Gulf. God will cause this river to dry up, enabling, it says, the “kings of the east” to easily cross into the Holy Land. But this is just a prelude—the setting of the stage for even more significant events to come.

Apocalypse is actually the Greek Name for the word translated "Revelation" in the Bible. It is the name of the last book of the Bible. It earned its name because of its overal description of the world-changing events that occur during the timeline of this book.

Armageddon, is both a place and now referred to as an event. It is the largest battlefield on earth, where a future battle is foretold between the armies of the earth and the returning King of Glory Jesus Christ. It is said that the blood of these armies will run as deep as the reins of horses in some places, and that the fuel supplies will heat the homes of the Palestinians for 7 years. Also, the birds of the whole earth will gather to eat to their full on the flesh of the dead soldiers.
Fuente(s).

I could go on and on here and even debate with many. Many have different opinions of this and that it ok. This is simply my humble opinions of what I've read and studied and heard my dear father Rev Auld speak of. I am only bringing my opinion, I don't seek to debate what is rightfully mine. My opinion. It makes you think though doesn't it?

Written By Jennifer L Auld
www.christiandemonologyandsatanology.com

The Difference Between Armageddon And The Apocalypse

Hello my para beauties! I trust you've had a wonderful weekend. Last week I was under the weather and was unable to write in for my weekly blog. I'm feeling much better and ready to answer some questions that have come in to me. A lot of this in my humble opinion of what I interpret the bible to be stating. By no means do I claim to state anything is fact. Only God knows when the 2nd coming is and what other details take place in these events.

What exactly is Armageddon? Is it a place or an event? It takes place during the Apocalypse. Who will take part in it? What does the Bible really say? Over 1,900 years ago, while exiled on an island off the Greek coast, the apostle John recorded what would happen, culminating in our time. In vision, he was taken forward in time into the “Lord’s Day” (Rev. 1:10) and was given messages regarding “...things which are, and things which shall be hereafter” (1:19).

Most of what John saw in vision was foreign to him. He had to record things in a way that could be understood. For instance, how would someone from the first century describe a helicopter gunship? What about a jet—or nuclear explosion? Jesus would have inspired him to use symbols or items familiar to him. The prophet Daniel spoke of “the TIME OF THE END.” The apostle Peter said, “there shall come in the LAST DAYS scoffers.” Paul said, “In the LAST DAYS perilous times shall come.”…some may say John wasn't in his right right mind being locked up so very long however, what if you are wrong? What then?

The Bible foretells a period of seven trumpets blown, each heralding its own terrible event. Now in my last 2 blogs I spoke of the 7 trumpets/seals. Throughout history, trumpet blasts have been used as warnings of imminent danger, such as war or another calamity (Zeph. 1:16; Jer. 4:19; Ezek. 33:2-6).

However, the seventh (or last) trumpet will announce to the world that Jesus Christ is coming to establish God’s rule on Earth. Man’s way of governance is ending. Also heralded by this final trumpet are the seven last plagues (also bowls or vials of wrath) God will use to punish a rebellious mankind. Revelation describes seven angels who “pour out the vials of the wrath of God upon the earth” (Rev. 16:1).

When the first vial is poured out, “there fell a noisome and grievous sore upon the men which had the mark of the beast” (vs. 2). These belong to the great, false church-state system. (More on this in a moment.)

The second plague mirrors what the Egyptians suffered before the Exodus: “The second angel poured out his vial upon the sea; and it became as the blood of a dead man: and every living soul died in the sea” (vs. 3).

The next three plagues involve the rivers and fountains turning to blood, the sun becoming so hot it scorches people, and darkness and pain becoming unbearable. After all these plagues, men will continue to “blaspheme the God of heaven because of their pains and their sores, and repent not of their deeds” (vs. 11).

The last generation before Jesus’ Return is so vile and corrupt that God will subject them to the worst punishment possible—and they still will not repent.

The Important Sixth Plague
The sixth of the last plagues sets the stage for the final battle to resist Christ at His Return. Forces of spiritual wickedness—demons—are released to gather armies to bring about destruction and devastation on the inhabitants of Earth. Notice how these armies are able to gather: “The sixth angel poured out his vial upon the great river Euphrates; and the water thereof was dried up, that the way of the kings of the east might be prepared” (Rev. 16:12).

The Euphrates River originates in Turkey and flows southeast through Syria and Iraq, finally reaching the Persian Gulf. God will cause this river to dry up, enabling, it says, the “kings of the east” to easily cross into the Holy Land. But this is just a prelude—the setting of the stage for even more significant events to come.

Apocalypse is actually the Greek Name for the word translated "Revelation" in the Bible. It is the name of the last book of the Bible. It earned its name because of its overal description of the world-changing events that occur during the timeline of this book.

Armageddon, is both a place and now referred to as an event. It is the largest battlefield on earth, where a future battle is foretold between the armies of the earth and the returning King of Glory Jesus Christ. It is said that the blood of these armies will run as deep as the reins of horses in some places, and that the fuel supplies will heat the homes of the Palestinians for 7 years. Also, the birds of the whole earth will gather to eat to their full on the flesh of the dead soldiers.
Fuente(s).

I could go on and on here and even debate with many. Many have different opinions of this and that it ok. This is simply my humble opinions of what I've read and studied and heard my dear father Rev Auld speak of. I am only bringing my opinion, I don't seek to debate what is rightfully mine. My opinion. It makes you think though doesn't it?

Written By Jennifer L Auld