4 ms·
If I understand you correctly, you're reasoning that the word cult is a derogatory term aimed at non Semitic religious practices. I don't think that reasoning s
by Jiocus 6y ago
If I understand you correctly, you're reasoning that the word cult is a derogatory term aimed at non Semitic religious practices. I don't think that reasoning seem sound, and here's why.
Firstly, the negative connotation is but the most recent way the word has been used to color something in an immoral or bad way. Even using the word cult in a secular way (“the cult-following of Twilight Zone”) seem to be older, and more positive overall.
Secondly, the word cult is a useful and suiting word in religious science when referring to religious worship and devotion - often aimed at a particular phenomenon within a larger religious context, such as a specific deity in a pantheon (in this light, the article use of the word seem less fitting).
Third, and I may be wrong on this one as I base it on pure intuition. From a Semitic perspective, other religious practices has been viewed historically as less legitimate, more primitive or outright as false practices at odds with say, Christianity. Those “heretic” practices has often been linked to Satan himself, causing many religious or spiritual traditions to be regarded as simply Satanic cults. Of course, this is negative press for the accused - but Satanism is also a Semitic religious idea.
My point is lost, but Should we continue to refer to Satanism as an immoral threat to society?
- naruvimama 6y agoMy point is simple, can it be simply a "temple". 1. “the cult-following of Twilight Zone” - it is immediately obvious that it is a fan club. 2. No religion today would like to be termed a cult. And there are also legal reasons. 3. Should we apply a "Christian/Islamic world view" on cultures some of which are more sophisticated and liberal than christianity. It is wrong to assume Christianity as a religion is "normal" or a benchmark. The old religions around the world have more in common with each other than with Christianity or Islam.
- deleted 6y ago[deleted]
- err4nt 6y agoIs what is considered a 'temple' and what is not considered a 'temple' something all laypeople and scholars agree on? (anecdotally, I've discovered some people have very strong reactions to the word 'temple' being used for certain buildings, and I am curious to know why - haven't figured out why for the people I know yet, but be aware it's not going to be a conflict-free term either)
- HarryHirsch 6y agoFirst time I ever hear about the word "temple" causing strong emotions. Are you referring to disagreements in Jewish schools of thought whether a prayerhouse should be called "temple", "synagogue" or something else?
- err4nt 6y agoI've heard Jews and Christians having issues with their own buildings, and other buildings being called 'temple', so all I know is that's not the silver bullet if you're trying to do a word swap. I think the right way to go is to generalize so we're not reading more into it than we know, "religious building" or "religious site", "religious area", or maybe "ceremonial building" if you're not sure the nature of the use. On the other hand, if you are certain about what it was, then you can be specific and it won't be wrong or need correcting.