Guest guest Posted December 17, 2002 Report Share Posted December 17, 2002 This has been "baheusa's" first post to the listserv, so I caution all of you to be wary of the possibility that he is an instigator. I checked the archive of the e-group and I did not see any other postings. I am suspicious of his email because I feel that he is trying to develop Anti-Christian sentiments on this listserv, and as we are all aware, Swamiji is a follower of all religions and does not distinguish between them. In the age of religious fundamentalism that we now live in, religion is often mixed with politics in attempt to incite a "us" vs. "them" mentality. We can all see the effects of this in India today. People are killed in the name of "hinduism", a complete defiance of our beliefs. I just did a google search and typed in "baheusa" and saw this email address on the "americanhinduclub". The posts on this website are anti-muslim and in favor of "hindutva". I personally do not want hateful rhetoric of any sort to be on this listserv. I do not want to be a part of the defiling of my religion with the blood of innocents that the banner of 'hindutva' proposes. If anyone would like more information on the "Hindu Right", please email me, I can send you tons of information. This was the topic of my college senior thesis. Swamiji surpasses all religion and all ideology. He has followers of all religions, indeed Jayalakshmi Mata learned her yoga practices from a wise fakir. Please don't let an individual with this type of mindset on our listserv and contradict everything that Swamiji stands for. -Maunica P.S Note: you cannot be "coverted" to Hinduism, by definition, everyone is a "Hindu"; by its very essence Hinduism is a religion of nature that does not distinguish among individuals. The American Hindu Club calls for "Hindu Converts", which in reality is a degradation and a misunderstanding of the true nature of our religion. Hinduism is inherent in our souls, and it is not a "club" that you join, there isnt a ritual that suddenly makes you "Hindu". It is a process of enlightenment, and learning about how all things in nature are connected, thus should live in harmony. This was the message of Gandhi. The person who killed Gandhi was a Hindu fundamentalist (NOT a Muslim)! In a message dated 12/17/02 7:14:33 AM Central Standard Time, JAIGURUDATTA writes: > British Pastor's Six Steps for Converting Hindus to Christianity > Source: http://www.cmf.org.uk/nucleus//nucjul00/hindu.htm > > UNITED KINGDOM: In this article, Juge Ram, a Christian convert from > Hinduism and Pastor of Emmanuel Church in Birmingham, England, > answers questions on Hinduism and explains how to reach Hindus with > the Bible. After giving a detailed background of Hindu beliefs and > culture, he suggests a few methods which Christians can use to reach > out to Hindus. > > Firstly, Hindus arriving from India generally feel isolated or have > difficulties knowing how things operate. Christians can use these > opportunities to offer them assistance, establish friendships and win > their trust. Christians can befriend and help the Hindu wife who is > often at home all day alone with the children and may need friendship > and assistance adjusting to a new culture. Christians should help > them as much as possible and try to get into their homes. It may > be a long and slow process, but it is one of the most successful ways > of bringing Hindus to Christianity. > > Secondly, the local churches need to demonstrate a concern for the > Hindus in their communities. If there is a large Asian > community and many members cannot speak English, they need to hear the > religious teachings in their own language. This can be done by having > Christian literature in appropriate languages. The church may consider > including books in Asian languages in Christian bookshops or > bookstalls at local events. From time to time churches can have a > bilingual service or an Asian evening. In addition, a bilingual > sermon or a recording of the Bible in their own language can be a > powerful tool for communicating with non-English speaking Hindus. > > Thirdly, Christians must be aware of cultural differences when > approaching Hindus or risk offending them. For example, a woman who > wants to be a witness to her Asian friends should not wear > miniskirts or other revealing clothing. Men should approach men only. > > > Fourthly, Christians should not attack Hinduism or risk alienating the > Hindus. Rather, it is suggested that Christians ask questions about > their religion and let Hindus see the "folly" of it themselves. > > Fifthly, Hindus are very polite and may give the impression that they > are listening and interested. Christians must not be fooled by this > and think that because they agree with them they are genuinely > interested. Many Hindus will say they believe in Christ and they may > even speak of repentance, but they will continue to worship Hindu > Gods. Therefore, Christians must make it clear to Hindus that they > need to make a clean break from Hinduism. > > > Lastly, Christians should use the Bible when witnessing. They can > read the Bible with Hindus and point out how relevant it is to their > lives. Christians must treat the Bible with respect and never put it > on the floor. Hindus can be given copies of the New Testament in > their own language if they cannot read English. Christians should > explain biblical terms through a simple biblical framework and use > biblical or other illustrations to assist them inconveying their > message. The pastor concludes by saying that Hindus are > lost, spiritually blind and are without hope in this world and in the > next. He says that only Christ can release them and exhorts > Christians to share the gospel with them with great humility and > great confidence. > > The number of practicing Christians in England drops at a rate of > 1,000 per day. > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 17, 2002 Report Share Posted December 17, 2002 Dear Maunica, thank you for your information. i can only say that Bahe sent me an email thanking me for the information i sent to the list and saying he didn´t mean to insult me or my belief. he probably sent me this mail because i didn´t attack him. he said he had been insulted by many christians. - in my opinion, even instigating situations are nothing but Guru´s Leela. Jai Guru Datta > This has been "baheusa's" first post to the listserv, so I caution all of > you > to be wary of the possibility that he is an instigator. I checked the > archive of the e-group and I did not see any other postings. > > I am suspicious of his email because I feel that he is trying to develop > Anti-Christian sentiments on this listserv, and as we are all aware, > Swamiji > is a follower of all religions and does not distinguish between them. In > the > age of religious fundamentalism that we now live in, religion is often > mixed > with politics in attempt to incite a "us" vs. "them" mentality. We can all > see the effects of this in India today. People are killed in the name of > "hinduism", a complete defiance of our beliefs. > > I just did a google search and typed in "baheusa" and saw this email > address > on the "americanhinduclub". The posts on this website are > anti-muslim and in favor of "hindutva". > > I personally do not want hateful rhetoric of any sort to be on this > listserv. > I do not want to be a part of the defiling of my religion with the blood of > > innocents that the banner of 'hindutva' proposes. If anyone would like more > > information on the "Hindu Right", please email me, I can send you tons of > information. This was the topic of my college senior thesis. > > Swamiji surpasses all religion and all ideology. He has followers of all > religions, indeed Jayalakshmi Mata learned her yoga practices from a wise > fakir. Please don't let an individual with this type of mindset on our > listserv and contradict everything that Swamiji stands for. > > > -Maunica > > > P.S Note: you cannot be "coverted" to Hinduism, by definition, everyone is > a > "Hindu"; by its very essence Hinduism is a religion of nature that does not > > distinguish among individuals. The American Hindu Club calls for "Hindu > Converts", which in reality is a degradation and a misunderstanding of the > true nature of our religion. Hinduism is inherent in our souls, and it is > not > a "club" that you join, there isnt a ritual that suddenly makes you > "Hindu". > It is a process of enlightenment, and learning about how all things in > nature > are connected, thus should live in harmony. This was the message of Gandhi. > > The person who killed Gandhi was a Hindu fundamentalist (NOT a Muslim)! > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 17, 2002 Report Share Posted December 17, 2002 to me it is very beautiful that one cannot be converted to Hinduism, but that by definition, everyone is a Hindu. - as for Bahe, i read his mail to me once more, Bahe seems to be a Hindu, not a Christian, (although these are only outward labels in a way) but to me he doesn´t seem to be aggressive, so he needn´t be a Fundamentalist , his motivation seems to be to prevent others from being "converted" into anything. however, i don´t consider it my task to investigate as for his motivation and belief. there´s a Sookti on sadguruseva.org (Sookti Sangraha) which says: "Mind your own business", as far as i remember. maybe we should have asked Bahe in the beginning why he had sent that message to us, what he meant to say by posting it to the list. thus, maybe some misunderstanding or other could have been prevented. on the other hand his mail started an interesting discussion. so what a beautiful test Sri Swamiji has put us to! wishing Bahe Datta´s Grace, JGD Carolin > This has been "baheusa's" first post to the listserv, so I caution all of > you > to be wary of the possibility that he is an instigator. I checked the > archive of the e-group and I did not see any other postings. > > I am suspicious of his email because I feel that he is trying to develop > Anti-Christian sentiments on this listserv, and as we are all aware, > Swamiji > is a follower of all religions and does not distinguish between them. In > the > age of religious fundamentalism that we now live in, religion is often > mixed > with politics in attempt to incite a "us" vs. "them" mentality. We can all > see the effects of this in India today. People are killed in the name of > "hinduism", a complete defiance of our beliefs. > > I just did a google search and typed in "baheusa" and saw this email > address > on the "americanhinduclub". The posts on this website are > anti-muslim and in favor of "hindutva". > > I personally do not want hateful rhetoric of any sort to be on this > listserv. > I do not want to be a part of the defiling of my religion with the blood of > > innocents that the banner of 'hindutva' proposes. If anyone would like more > > information on the "Hindu Right", please email me, I can send you tons of > information. This was the topic of my college senior thesis. > > Swamiji surpasses all religion and all ideology. He has followers of all > religions, indeed Jayalakshmi Mata learned her yoga practices from a wise > fakir. Please don't let an individual with this type of mindset on our > listserv and contradict everything that Swamiji stands for. > > > -Maunica > > > P.S Note: you cannot be "coverted" to Hinduism, by definition, everyone is > a > "Hindu"; by its very essence Hinduism is a religion of nature that does not > > distinguish among individuals. The American Hindu Club calls for "Hindu > Converts", which in reality is a degradation and a misunderstanding of the > true nature of our religion. Hinduism is inherent in our souls, and it is > not > a "club" that you join, there isnt a ritual that suddenly makes you > "Hindu". > It is a process of enlightenment, and learning about how all things in > nature > are connected, thus should live in harmony. This was the message of Gandhi. > > The person who killed Gandhi was a Hindu fundamentalist (NOT a Muslim)! > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 18, 2002 Report Share Posted December 18, 2002 the name bahe even reminds me of the bahá í movement (www.bahai.org) it is not that i am a member of the bahai s, but i find it interesting that in their belief all religions are one and the same, just as it is in Vedanta, and just as our beloved Swamiji teaches ("abandon the delusion of difference" see animated writing on dattapeetham.com) JGD Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 18, 2002 Report Share Posted December 18, 2002 MONICA, Thank you very much for your intelligent and devoted comments. I applaud you for addressing this issue and your eloquent way of expressing your insightful perceptions. I was disturbed by the anti-Christian sentiment from the original post by "baheusa" and those that followed. Sri Swamiji has repeatedly stated that followers of all religions are welcome. Karen On Tuesday, December 17, 2002, at 11:33 PM, Maunica wrote: > > This has been "baheusa's" first post to the listserv, so I caution all of > you > to be wary of the possibility that he is an instigator. I checked the > archive of the e-group and I did not see any other postings. > > I am suspicious of his email because I feel that he is trying to develop > Anti-Christian sentiments on this listserv, and as we are all aware, > Swamiji > is a follower of all religions and does not distinguish between them. In > the > age of religious fundamentalism that we now live in, religion is often > mixed > with politics in attempt to incite a "us" vs. "them" mentality. We can all > see the effects of this in India today. People are killed in the name of > "hinduism", a complete defiance of our beliefs. > > I just did a google search and typed in "baheusa" and saw this email > address > on the "americanhinduclub". The posts on this website are > anti-muslim and in favor of "hindutva". > > I personally do not want hateful rhetoric of any sort to be on this > listserv. > I do not want to be a part of the defiling of my religion with the blood > of > innocents that the banner of 'hindutva' proposes. If anyone would like more > information on the "Hindu Right", please email me, I can send you tons of > information. This was the topic of my college senior thesis. > > Swamiji surpasses all religion and all ideology. He has followers of all > religions, indeed Jayalakshmi Mata learned her yoga practices from a wise > fakir. Please don't let an individual with this type of mindset on our > listserv and contradict everything that Swamiji stands for. > > > -Maunica > > > P.S Note: you cannot be "coverted" to Hinduism, by definition, everyone is > a > "Hindu"; by its very essence Hinduism is a religion of nature that does not > distinguish among individuals. The American Hindu Club calls for "Hindu > Converts", which in reality is a degradation and a misunderstanding of the > true nature of our religion. Hinduism is inherent in our souls, and it is > not > a "club" that you join, there isnt a ritual that suddenly makes you "Hindu" > . > It is a process of enlightenment, and learning about how all things in > nature > are connected, thus should live in harmony. This was the message of Gandhi. > The person who killed Gandhi was a Hindu fundamentalist (NOT a Muslim)! > > > > > > In a message dated 12/17/02 7:14:33 AM Central Standard Time, > JAIGURUDATTA writes: > > >> British Pastor's Six Steps for Converting Hindus to Christianity >> Source: http://www.cmf.org.uk/nucleus//nucjul00/hindu.htm >> >> UNITED KINGDOM: In this article, Juge Ram, a Christian convert from >> Hinduism and Pastor of Emmanuel Church in Birmingham, England, >> answers questions on Hinduism and explains how to reach Hindus with >> the Bible. After giving a detailed background of Hindu beliefs and >> culture, he suggests a few methods which Christians can use to reach >> out to Hindus. >> >> Firstly, Hindus arriving from India generally feel isolated or have >> difficulties knowing how things operate. Christians can use these >> opportunities to offer them assistance, establish friendships and win >> their trust. Christians can befriend and help the Hindu wife who is >> often at home all day alone with the children and may need friendship >> and assistance adjusting to a new culture. Christians should help >> them as much as possible and try to get into their homes. It may >> be a long and slow process, but it is one of the most successful ways >> of bringing Hindus to Christianity. >> >> Secondly, the local churches need to demonstrate a concern for the >> Hindus in their communities. If there is a large Asian >> community and many members cannot speak English, they need to hear the >> religious teachings in their own language. This can be done by having >> Christian literature in appropriate languages. The church may consider >> including books in Asian languages in Christian bookshops or >> bookstalls at local events. From time to time churches can have a >> bilingual service or an Asian evening. In addition, a bilingual >> sermon or a recording of the Bible in their own language can be a >> powerful tool for communicating with non-English speaking Hindus. >> >> Thirdly, Christians must be aware of cultural differences when >> approaching Hindus or risk offending them. For example, a woman who >> wants to be a witness to her Asian friends should not wear >> miniskirts or other revealing clothing. Men should approach men only. >> >> >> Fourthly, Christians should not attack Hinduism or risk alienating the >> Hindus. Rather, it is suggested that Christians ask questions about >> their religion and let Hindus see the "folly" of it themselves. >> >> Fifthly, Hindus are very polite and may give the impression that they >> are listening and interested. Christians must not be fooled by this >> and think that because they agree with them they are genuinely >> interested. Many Hindus will say they believe in Christ and they may >> even speak of repentance, but they will continue to worship Hindu >> Gods. Therefore, Christians must make it clear to Hindus that they >> need to make a clean break from Hinduism. >> >> >> Lastly, Christians should use the Bible when witnessing. They can >> read the Bible with Hindus and point out how relevant it is to their >> lives. Christians must treat the Bible with respect and never put it >> on the floor. Hindus can be given copies of the New Testament in >> their own language if they cannot read English. Christians should >> explain biblical terms through a simple biblical framework and use >> biblical or other illustrations to assist them inconveying their >> message. The pastor concludes by saying that Hindus are >> lost, spiritually blind and are without hope in this world and in the >> next. He says that only Christ can release them and exhorts >> Christians to share the gospel with them with great humility and >> great confidence. >> >> The number of practicing Christians in England drops at a rate of >> 1,000 per day. >> > > > > > > > > > > Latest News and Additions http://www.dattapeetham.com/additions/new.html > > Upcomming events at Datta Temple and Hall of Trinity, Baton Rouge, LA > http://www.dattatemple.com/uevents.htm > > Post message: JAIGURUDATTA > Subscribe: JAIGURUDATTA- > Un: JAIGURUDATTA > > Your use of is subject to > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 18, 2002 Report Share Posted December 18, 2002 All, Unfortunately there are so many deplorable problems facing the human soceity, and conversion of the masses is one of them. It is deplorable because they do not address the spiritual quest of individuals, but cater to the needs from economical level. This amounts to winning over someone by pure deceit. Sigmund Freud said that religion is the hyesteria of the masses. Sometimes I think that his statement is true, when people do not grow spiritually by religion, but use it for reasons like this. When people make a choice on their personal experience, it is no longer considered to be conversion. It is using the freedom of choice, and it is to be welcomed. Not every path can address all the needs of individuals in the soceity, and hence we have so many of them. We do need to respect each one of them, in the light of their merits, and the solace it provides to its followers. Hindu saints including Swamiji, ask people to follow their faith mostly. Just because someone takes Swamiji as their Guru or guide, it does not mean that person has changed his or her religion. He or She is using an extra vehicle to reach the goal. I think that people should put this topic behind them, and discuss other important things for which this forum was started. There are many other places in the internet, where these socio-political problems can be discussed. Whoever wants to discuss these topics, please stop using this forum. It increases the noise in this forum, and we are digressing from our purpose. With Lord Datta's grace, let peace belong to everyone. Jaya Guru Datta. Ravi > MONICA, > > Thank you very much for your intelligent and devoted comments. > I applaud you for addressing this issue and your eloquent way of expressing > your insightful perceptions. > I was disturbed by the anti-Christian sentiment from the original post by > "baheusa" and those that followed. > Sri Swamiji has repeatedly stated that followers of all religions are > welcome. > > Karen > > On Tuesday, December 17, 2002, at 11:33 PM, Maunica wrote: > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 18, 2002 Report Share Posted December 18, 2002 Ravi, and "All" Beautifully said. Thank you. Jai Guru Datta Sri Maata Karen On Wednesday, December 18, 2002, at 10:49 AM, ravi.venkatraman wrote: > All, > > Unfortunately there are so many deplorable problems facing the human > soceity, > and conversion of the masses is one of them. It is deplorable because they > do > not address the spiritual quest of individuals, but cater to the needs from > economical level. This amounts to winning over someone by pure deceit. > > Sigmund Freud said that religion is the hyesteria of the masses. Sometimes > I > think that his statement is true, when people do not grow spiritually by > religion, but use it for reasons like this. > > When people make a choice on their personal experience, it is no longer > considered to be conversion. It is using the freedom of choice, and it is > to be > welcomed. Not every path can address all the needs of individuals in the > soceity, and hence we have so many of them. We do need to respect each one > of > them, in the light of their merits, and the solace it provides to its > followers. > > Hindu saints including Swamiji, ask people to follow their faith mostly. > Just > because someone takes Swamiji as their Guru or guide, it does not mean that > person has changed his or her religion. He or She is using an extra > vehicle to > reach the goal. > > I think that people should put this topic behind them, and discuss other > important things for which this forum was started. There are many other > places > in the internet, where these socio-political problems can be discussed. > Whoever > wants to discuss these topics, please stop using this forum. It increases > the > noise in this forum, and we are digressing from our purpose. > > With Lord Datta's grace, let peace belong to everyone. > > Jaya Guru Datta. > > Ravi Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 22, 2002 Report Share Posted December 22, 2002 Mind Your Business It is within the nature of a common man to think of others, to talk about others and to interfere into the affairs of others. Instead of looking at himself, he is agitated and bothered about others. By so doing, he is unknowingly causing great harm to himself. He is forgetting that the object of his concentration should be the ‘Self’ within and not the outside objects and circumstances. In the spiritual path, the fundamental lesson is ‘Mind your own business’. One should not try to change others; rather, he should change himself. One should learn to mind one’s own business and stop getting agitated by others. Just as the Higher Power takes control of you, the same Power takes care of others as well. If at all, one has to be concerned with others, the concern should be that of unselfish co-operation, help and love. - Sri Swamiji Jai Guru Datta! (from: sadguruseva.org, Sookti Sangraha) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 23, 2002 Report Share Posted December 23, 2002 I think it's fun to speculate that there's no room for prejudice. For example IF any individual East Indians were to look down on USA caucasions as being somehow "less spiritual" than themselves, that it might actually be the case that the poor fellow prejudiced against might indeed have more lived more real lifetimes in India than the one doing the poo-pooing. Isn't eternity adorable? It allows us to put things into perspective. Friend Paul. - "Karen" <karen93942 "jai guru datta" <jaigurudatta> Wednesday, December 18, 2002 12:19 PM Re: Baheusa- A Hindu Fundamentalist > MONICA, > > Thank you very much for your intelligent and devoted comments. > I applaud you for addressing this issue and your eloquent way of expressing > your insightful perceptions. > I was disturbed by the anti-Christian sentiment from the original post by > "baheusa" and those that followed. > Sri Swamiji has repeatedly stated that followers of all religions are > welcome. > > Karen > > On Tuesday, December 17, 2002, at 11:33 PM, Maunica wrote: > > > > > This has been "baheusa's" first post to the listserv, so I caution all of > > you > > to be wary of the possibility that he is an instigator. I checked the > > archive of the e-group and I did not see any other postings. > > > > I am suspicious of his email because I feel that he is trying to develop > > Anti-Christian sentiments on this listserv, and as we are all aware, > > Swamiji > > is a follower of all religions and does not distinguish between them. In > > the > > age of religious fundamentalism that we now live in, religion is often > > mixed > > with politics in attempt to incite a "us" vs. "them" mentality. We can all > > see the effects of this in India today. People are killed in the name of > > "hinduism", a complete defiance of our beliefs. > > > > I just did a google search and typed in "baheusa" and saw this email > > address > > on the "americanhinduclub". The posts on this website are > > anti-muslim and in favor of "hindutva". > > > > I personally do not want hateful rhetoric of any sort to be on this > > listserv. > > I do not want to be a part of the defiling of my religion with the blood > > of > > innocents that the banner of 'hindutva' proposes. If anyone would like more > > information on the "Hindu Right", please email me, I can send you tons of > > information. This was the topic of my college senior thesis. > > > > Swamiji surpasses all religion and all ideology. He has followers of all > > religions, indeed Jayalakshmi Mata learned her yoga practices from a wise > > fakir. Please don't let an individual with this type of mindset on our > > listserv and contradict everything that Swamiji stands for. > > > > > > -Maunica > > > > > > P.S Note: you cannot be "coverted" to Hinduism, by definition, everyone is > > a > > "Hindu"; by its very essence Hinduism is a religion of nature that does not > > distinguish among individuals. The American Hindu Club calls for "Hindu > > Converts", which in reality is a degradation and a misunderstanding of the > > true nature of our religion. Hinduism is inherent in our souls, and it is > > not > > a "club" that you join, there isnt a ritual that suddenly makes you "Hindu" > > . > > It is a process of enlightenment, and learning about how all things in > > nature > > are connected, thus should live in harmony. This was the message of Gandhi. > > The person who killed Gandhi was a Hindu fundamentalist (NOT a Muslim)! > > > > > > > > > > > > In a message dated 12/17/02 7:14:33 AM Central Standard Time, > > JAIGURUDATTA writes: > > > > > >> British Pastor's Six Steps for Converting Hindus to Christianity > >> Source: http://www.cmf.org.uk/nucleus//nucjul00/hindu.htm > >> > >> UNITED KINGDOM: In this article, Juge Ram, a Christian convert from > >> Hinduism and Pastor of Emmanuel Church in Birmingham, England, > >> answers questions on Hinduism and explains how to reach Hindus with > >> the Bible. After giving a detailed background of Hindu beliefs and > >> culture, he suggests a few methods which Christians can use to reach > >> out to Hindus. > >> > >> Firstly, Hindus arriving from India generally feel isolated or have > >> difficulties knowing how things operate. Christians can use these > >> opportunities to offer them assistance, establish friendships and win > >> their trust. Christians can befriend and help the Hindu wife who is > >> often at home all day alone with the children and may need friendship > >> and assistance adjusting to a new culture. Christians should help > >> them as much as possible and try to get into their homes. It may > >> be a long and slow process, but it is one of the most successful ways > >> of bringing Hindus to Christianity. > >> > >> Secondly, the local churches need to demonstrate a concern for the > >> Hindus in their communities. If there is a large Asian > >> community and many members cannot speak English, they need to hear the > >> religious teachings in their own language. This can be done by having > >> Christian literature in appropriate languages. The church may consider > >> including books in Asian languages in Christian bookshops or > >> bookstalls at local events. From time to time churches can have a > >> bilingual service or an Asian evening. In addition, a bilingual > >> sermon or a recording of the Bible in their own language can be a > >> powerful tool for communicating with non-English speaking Hindus. > >> > >> Thirdly, Christians must be aware of cultural differences when > >> approaching Hindus or risk offending them. For example, a woman who > >> wants to be a witness to her Asian friends should not wear > >> miniskirts or other revealing clothing. Men should approach men only. > >> > >> > >> Fourthly, Christians should not attack Hinduism or risk alienating the > >> Hindus. Rather, it is suggested that Christians ask questions about > >> their religion and let Hindus see the "folly" of it themselves. > >> > >> Fifthly, Hindus are very polite and may give the impression that they > >> are listening and interested. Christians must not be fooled by this > >> and think that because they agree with them they are genuinely > >> interested. Many Hindus will say they believe in Christ and they may > >> even speak of repentance, but they will continue to worship Hindu > >> Gods. Therefore, Christians must make it clear to Hindus that they > >> need to make a clean break from Hinduism. > >> > >> > >> Lastly, Christians should use the Bible when witnessing. They can > >> read the Bible with Hindus and point out how relevant it is to their > >> lives. Christians must treat the Bible with respect and never put it > >> on the floor. Hindus can be given copies of the New Testament in > >> their own language if they cannot read English. Christians should > >> explain biblical terms through a simple biblical framework and use > >> biblical or other illustrations to assist them inconveying their > >> message. The pastor concludes by saying that Hindus are > >> lost, spiritually blind and are without hope in this world and in the > >> next. He says that only Christ can release them and exhorts > >> Christians to share the gospel with them with great humility and > >> great confidence. > >> > >> The number of practicing Christians in England drops at a rate of > >> 1,000 per day. > >> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Latest News and Additions http://www.dattapeetham.com/additions/new.html > > > > Upcomming events at Datta Temple and Hall of Trinity, Baton Rouge, LA > > http://www.dattatemple.com/uevents.htm > > > > Post message: JAIGURUDATTA > > Subscribe: JAIGURUDATTA- > > Un: JAIGURUDATTA > > > > Your use of is subject to > > > > > > > Latest News and Additions http://www.dattapeetham.com/additions/new.html > > Upcomming events at Datta Temple and Hall of Trinity, Baton Rouge, LA > http://www.dattatemple.com/uevents.htm > > Post message: JAIGURUDATTA > Subscribe: JAIGURUDATTA- > Un: JAIGURUDATTA > > Your use of is subject to > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 23, 2002 Report Share Posted December 23, 2002 This is Paul. To those who have a need to know, my heart feels ready to cooperate, help and love and to be guided by Sri Swamiji. Who addresses this to me? I already penned an answer and a questing to a Karen for wonderful knowledge I would like to know about Sri Swamiji and others, for I seek understanding of all sorts. Did this note come to me directly from Sri Swamiji as a rebuke from him to me, or are you just quoting something he stated.? Who are you to speak to me thusly? If Sri Swamiji is unhappy about me, I'd like to hear from him directly. My phone number is 812 333-6065, USA. Since I often ask for him to speak to me telepathically, and I wait patiently, it would be great joy to speak directly. I will accept any direction from him if it's validly his concern. As soon as I open to the Internet next, my last messages I wrote will be automatically sent including the one to Karen, whoever she is. 'Sorry if that's innopportune. I do not perceive that I am agitated by any other, nor do I seek to change anyone except to spreading more love among us. Within Our Love, Paul A. Snyder - <MadeleineHeiss <psnyder; <jaigurudatta>; <karen93942 Monday, December 23, 2002 4:39 AM Re: Baheusa- A Hindu Fundamentalist > Mind Your Business > It is within the nature of a common man to think of others, to talk about > others and to interfere into the affairs of others. Instead of looking at > himself, he is agitated and bothered about others. By so doing, he is > unknowingly causing great harm to himself. He is forgetting that the object > of his concentration should be the ‘Self’ within and not the outside objects > and circumstances. > > In the spiritual path, the fundamental lesson is ‘Mind your own business’. > One should not try to change others; rather, he should change himself. One > should learn to mind one’s own business and stop getting agitated by other s. > Just as the Higher Power takes control of you, the same Power takes care of > others as well. If at all, one has to be concerned with others, the concern > should be that of unselfish co-operation, help and love. > > > > - Sri Swamiji > Jai Guru Datta! > > > (from: sadguruseva.org, Sookti Sangraha) > > > > > > Latest News and Additions http://www.dattapeetham.com/additions/new.html > > Upcomming events at Datta Temple and Hall of Trinity, Baton Rouge, LA > http://www.dattatemple.com/uevents.htm > > Post message: JAIGURUDATTA > Subscribe: JAIGURUDATTA- > Un: JAIGURUDATTA > > Your use of is subject to > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 23, 2002 Report Share Posted December 23, 2002 JaiJai Guru Datta Everyone has been very involved in this email, about christian conversion of hindus, that was sent to the group. It reminds me of a centipede that had gotten confused while counting his legs. If the email is not what we would like to about read about then lets just delete it and stop getting caught up in the maya and the illusion and concentrate on the Brahman on our path to the Supreme. Jai Guru Datta Paul Snyder <psnyder wrote:This is Paul. To those who have a need to know, my heart feels ready to cooperate, help and love and to be guided by Sri Swamiji. Who addresses this to me? I already penned an answer and a questing to a Karen for wonderful knowledge I would like to know about Sri Swamiji and others, for I seek understanding of all sorts. Did this note come to me directly from Sri Swamiji as a rebuke from him to me, or are you just quoting something he stated.? Who are you to speak to me thusly? If Sri Swamiji is unhappy about me, I'd like to hear from him directly. My phone number is 812 333-6065, USA. Since I often ask for him to speak to me telepathically, and I wait patiently, it would be great joy to speak directly. I will accept any direction from him if it's validly his concern. As soon as I open to the Internet next, my last messages I wrote will be automatically sent including the one to Karen, whoever she is. 'Sorry if that's innopportune. I do not perceive that I am agitated by any other, nor do I seek to change anyone except to spreading more love among us. Within Our Love, Paul A. Snyder - <MadeleineHeiss <psnyder; <jaigurudatta>; <karen93942 Monday, December 23, 2002 4:39 AM Re: Baheusa- A Hindu Fundamentalist > Mind Your Business > It is within the nature of a common man to think of others, to talk about > others and to interfere into the affairs of others. Instead of looking at > himself, he is agitated and bothered about others. By so doing, he is > unknowingly causing great harm to himself. He is forgetting that the object > of his concentration should be the ‘Self’ within and not the outside objects > and circumstances. > > In the spiritual path, the fundamental lesson is ‘Mind your own business’. > One should not try to change others; rather, he should change himself. One > should learn to mind one’s own business and stop getting agitated by other s. > Just as the Higher Power takes control of you, the same Power takes care of > others as well. If at all, one has to be concerned with others, the concern > should be that of unselfish co-operation, help and love. > > > > - Sri Swamiji > Jai Guru Datta! > > > (from: sadguruseva.org, Sookti Sangraha) > > > > > > Latest News and Additions http://www.dattapeetham.com/additions/new.html > > Upcomming events at Datta Temple and Hall of Trinity, Baton Rouge, LA > http://www.dattatemple.com/uevents.htm > > Post message: JAIGURUDATTA > Subscribe: JAIGURUDATTA- > Un: JAIGURUDATTA > > Your use of is subject to > > Latest News and Additions http://www.dattapeetham.com/additions/new.html Upcomming events at Datta Temple and Hall of Trinity, Baton Rouge, LA http://www.dattatemple.com/uevents.htm Post message: JAIGURUDATTA Subscribe: JAIGURUDATTA- Un: JAIGURUDATTA Mail Plus - Powerful. Affordable. Sign up now Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 24, 2002 Report Share Posted December 24, 2002 Paul and others, I am a member in another Internet list discussing philosophy. People get into heated arguments over there too. Sometimes some one gets hurt, but that is part of the life being actively engaging oneself in the list. What we have to really know is that we may be provoking or hurting others by our posts also, without our own knowledge. This invites more exchanges in similar tone and substance. I hope that I am not offending anyone here, and if someone thinks please do not take this personal. All of us are not perfect. We give into the internal enemies like anger, greed and lust etc., It is only the degree to which each one of us succumb to these differs. Great souls like Swamiji have controlled all these enemies, and that is why they are able to provide solace to others, because they can block bad thoughts in our minds when we visit them. But unfortunately the path or method to be followed to reach that state, sometimes seems to be contrary to the goal itself. Let us assume that I want to reach that state of loving the entire humanity. When someone says "Love your neighbor as you would love yourself", what are you supposed to do in situations where you need to act in a contrary manner? Suppose my neighbor decides to encroach a bit of my property to lay a fence, do I tell him to move his fence to the property line or keep quiet? If I tell him/her to move the property line and end up in an altercation, I am giving in to my internal enemies. If I keep quiet, I allow my neighbor to ride all over me. There is a Sanskrit meaning “He who preserves Dharma is protected by Dharmaâ€. Nowadays, the national constitution is also part of Dharma. The list rules are Dharma, and if I moderate my posts, I do not need to be told by another list member to reduce my noise. Let me end this with my own experiences with Swamiji. I honestly believe that, if you want to reach Swamiji, you do not have to send mails to this list. THE DIALOGUE WITH SWAMIJI SHOULD BE A PERSONAL ONE, and you will be answered depending on the intensity of your connection. I cannot let you know when and how you will be answered, but your hope, faith and patience will be rewarded. Let Lord Datta’s grace be with all of us on this Christmas occasion to find peace. Ravi - "Paul Snyder" <psnyder <jaigurudatta>; <karen93942; <MadeleineHeiss Monday, December 23, 2002 9:13 PM Re: Baheusa- A Hindu Fundamentalist > This is Paul. To those who have a need to know, my heart feels ready to > cooperate, help and love and to be guided by Sri Swamiji. Who addresses this > to me? I already penned an answer and a questing to a Karen for wonderful > knowledge I would like to know about Sri Swamiji and others, for I seek > understanding of all sorts. Did this note come to me directly from Sri > Swamiji as a rebuke from him to me, or are you just quoting something he > stated.? Who are you to speak to me thusly? If Sri Swamiji is unhappy > about me, I'd like to hear from him directly. My phone number is 812 > 333-6065, USA. Since I often ask for him to speak to me telepathically, > and I wait patiently, it would be great joy to speak directly. I will > accept any direction from him if it's validly his concern. As soon as I > open to the Internet next, my last messages I wrote will be automatically > sent including the one to Karen, whoever she is. 'Sorry if that's > innopportune. I do not perceive that I am agitated by any other, nor do I > seek to change anyone except to spreading more love among us. Within Our > Love, Paul A. Snyder > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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