|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
[official] The Meaning of life
What do you think the meaning of life actually is? I know from a religious point of view, there is heaven/hell/reincarnation etc., but what if you're not religious, is it to be happy? to make others happy, or just to continue the human race?
Everyone knows that the answer is 42. 
Seriously, life is for being happy.
Seriously, life is for being happy.
The meaning of life the universe and everything is 42, but what is the question?
Personally I don't believe in what we can prove, and as we cannot for certain prove anything then;
What happens when we die?, can only be answered by those who have died, so I can't answer that question.
What happens when we die?, can only be answered by those who have died, so I can't answer that question.
thats what i was thinking, thats why im so unsure about religion, if it were true, then someone should tell us if (any) one religion tells the truth, and tell us what happend after death, whats the point of leading millions of people on?
Because we'll really figure out the meaning of life in a message board poll with four options, in a community full of random people who just want to make a website.
The meaning of life is "the characteristic state or condition of a living organism."
The meaning of life is "the characteristic state or condition of a living organism."
We can't solve this with one thread, that's why this is probably the 5th-150th meaning of life thread on this board. Everyone's gonna keep saying it's 42.
i wasnt trying to find out, i was just asking to see what everyone thought the meaning of life is! 
It's to do something good & important. (not just the born>elementary>junior high>high school>college>work>retirement>die cycle). Everyone has different religious beliefs...mine just happen to be rotting in the groud 
That or some sort of Futurama cryogenic freezing
That or some sort of Futurama cryogenic freezing Life is nothing more than living and dieing..No coming back...
Moved to Philosophy and Religion
Life is what you make it, if you don;t make it anything than it won't be anything.
| kazikame wrote: |
| Everyone knows that the answer is 42.
Seriously, life is for being happy. |
amen to that. i don't think there really is any meaning to life at all, it just happens. we live, experience things, we die, and our remains become a part of that whole crazy cycle again.
i think people try to read into things too much and place importance on what they do (ie. follow a religion - not to bash any religious people out there). more people need to just relax and accept life for what it is and enjoy it while it lasts. come on people, live a little!
Good drink, meal & sex.
What exactly does the end of life have to do with its meaning? Why must you know what happens when to die to have meaning in your life? The meaning of life is to get the most out of your time here. For some it is living this life so that they can have a better one in the next, yes. If that is their meaning in life let them have it. but whether or not heaven and hell exist will not effect the meaning that they held on to, understand?
Yeah, I'm a bit puzzled. The meaning of the life, in my opinion, has nothing to do with "What do we do after we die."
Life is your own and with that you make it what it is. Religion dictates the majority of everyones life after death. Its hard to believe in something you cant prove or even see but for that matter we cant see fartherer than we believe. Life is only as good as you make it. Lets just say the meaning of life like a lot of other questions the answer always varies and isnt always complete either.
Live life have fun and end life with a body so totally buggered they cant use a single organ 
enjoy!
and 42..
enjoy!
and 42..
| Soulfire wrote: |
| Yeah, I'm a bit puzzled. The meaning of the life, in my opinion, has nothing to do with "What do we do after we die." |
This poll is severely flawed, it assumes that anyone who believes in reincarnation does not believe in Heaven or Hell. It was designed from an atheistic point of view and doesn’t reflect theistic views on the topic in a number of ways. (Who made this a sticky?)
[quote="mike1reynolds"]Funny how the atheists don’t have any problem with this poll. Clearly they have no problem with defining life’s meaning exclusively in terms of death. This says a lot about atheism.
Life is simple when you are a atheist!!
Life is simple when you are a atheist!!
Meaning of life, eh....one of my favorite quote from the 70s...
Seriously, the meaning of life, for me, is to get through it hurting as few as possible, helping where I can and enjoying it as much as I can after that.
| Quote: |
| "What's it all mean, Mr. Natural?"
"Don't mean s**t, kid." |
Seriously, the meaning of life, for me, is to get through it hurting as few as possible, helping where I can and enjoying it as much as I can after that.
life is like a particle.......absolutley unpredictable
| Spe_eddy wrote: |
| What do you think the meaning of life actually is? I know from a religious point of view, there is heaven/hell/reincarnation etc., but what if you're not religious, is it to be happy? to make others happy, or just to continue the human race? |
The meaning of life is whatever you put into it. It isn't such a big deal. After all, you and I were not consulted whether we would like to be born. And we will not be asked whether we like to die or not. So just accept life as it is presented to you while at the same time allowing others to live their own lives in a less painful way.
I think reincarnation is a very cool concept.
Just for that I think people should believe in it. No just kidding...
I mean how frustrating to think you have only one life. Especially if you messed up (or were not really helped to do well).
You get to forty something, have the famous mid life crisis, realise you were a complete moron all these years, your kids hate you, your job is rubbish...
As I said you wake up from this 40 years sleep to realise you would like to start again but you can't.
Ah ah ah ! Hilarious. That's when the idea of reincarnation can become quite appealing to a lot of people.
By the way, I am not too keen on the idea of reincarnating in anything else than a human being. Especially not a stone or a lizard.
So I put all my money on reincanation.
PS: I'm not forty something yet.
Just for that I think people should believe in it. No just kidding...
I mean how frustrating to think you have only one life. Especially if you messed up (or were not really helped to do well).
You get to forty something, have the famous mid life crisis, realise you were a complete moron all these years, your kids hate you, your job is rubbish...
As I said you wake up from this 40 years sleep to realise you would like to start again but you can't.
Ah ah ah ! Hilarious. That's when the idea of reincarnation can become quite appealing to a lot of people.
By the way, I am not too keen on the idea of reincarnating in anything else than a human being. Especially not a stone or a lizard.
So I put all my money on reincanation.
PS: I'm not forty something yet.
The meaning of life is "42"!
| mike1reynolds wrote: |
| Funny how the atheists don’t have any problem with this poll. Clearly they have no problem with defining life’s meaning exclusively in terms of death. This says a lot about atheism.
This poll is severely flawed, it assumes that anyone who believes in reincarnation does not believe in Heaven or Hell. It was designed from an atheistic point of view and doesn’t reflect theistic views on the topic in a number of ways. (Who made this a sticky?) |
"Fixed" your shouting
.
I dislike stickies (and those "top 5" topics listed on the front page), since they tend to not favour any discussion, but rather degenerate into 100s of people stating the same thing over and over again. So far, this one hasn't.
Yes, this poll is severely flawed, but so are all polls on these forums which don't have a simple Yes-No/Black-White answer. Which is why I don't have any problem with it, not because I'm an atheist
. I don't expect a profound answer from a forum poll with a maximum of 256 possible answers (as if anyone would answer a poll with that maximum anyway).
The poll also assumes that anyone who doesn't specifically believe in reincarnation, Heaven and Hell or spirits believes there's nothing after death. Just as you seem to believe all atheists do. It's "designed" from an atheistic point of view no more than it's designed from a theist one.
"Clearly [atheists] have no problem defining life's meaning exclusively in terms of death"? Are you out of your ****ing mind?! (that's a film quotation, excuse the language
). Many an atheist would submit that several major religions are the very definition of defining life's meaning in terms of death. Several, not all. Many people seek religion for that very reason. Many, far from all. To a lot of people, life is nothing but a waiting room for the "real thing", which comes at death. That's defining life in terms of death, if anything is. Others believe this "real thing" comes at enlightenment or whatever other thing they can think up. In any event, they're waiting for Godot (not God).
To an atheist (and many other religious people), that seems a waste, but if that is their meaning of life, noone's to call them wrong or judge them. It's their life.
In any event, what atheists or religious people think about the design of this poll doesn't "say a lot about atheism" or religion. It says nothing at all, except maybe about your capacity for overanalyzation and generalisation.
Don't turn this into yet another discussion about whether atheists or theists are "right", whether God exists or not.
As for the meaning of my life, it's exploring - art and nature, myself and others, living and dead, happiness and sorrow. Trying everything I wish to try, travelling, socializing, learning, experiencing. As others have said, enjoying life. Living.
I just agree with the opinion that when you die everything ends for you. There will be no more 'you', nor will there ever be again. I don't care what happens after I die. I'll find out when that happens. For now, I stick to my belief.
My meaning of life is to make the best out of it no matter who I am or my social status. It's no use being ashamed of your heritage or anything unchangeable. Restating my point: Just make the best out of it.
I agree that there is nothing after dead.. So, all we can do is enjoy our lives, fight for our intrests, and leave our mark in humanity.. so other generations can learn something... And always do what you think it's the best for humanity.. otherwise.. what would be the point of all i said?
I agree on that life means 42.
But I am puzzling why do we live?
People are going to say that quantum releases on our brain which sends electric signals something something something ... What is the reason for life?
But I am puzzling why do we live?
People are going to say that quantum releases on our brain which sends electric signals something something something ... What is the reason for life?
| nico wrote: |
| I think reincarnation is a very cool concept.
Just for that I think people should believe in it. No just kidding... I mean how frustrating to think you have only one life. Especially if you messed up (or were not really helped to do well). You get to forty something, have the famous mid life crisis, realise you were a complete moron all these years, your kids hate you, your job is rubbish... As I said you wake up from this 40 years sleep to realise you would like to start again but you can't. Ah ah ah ! Hilarious. That's when the idea of reincarnation can become quite appealing to a lot of people. By the way, I am not too keen on the idea of reincarnating in anything else than a human being. Especially not a stone or a lizard. So I put all my money on reincanation. PS: I'm not forty something yet. |
The whole point of reincarnation is to be purified in this life so as to be able to enter into the fulness of life. Reincarnation is not about fun; it is accepting the fact that ultimately you and I are nothing. Hollywood has made it appealing.
hyhy post whitch has been ignored is the only one that is biblically based, god said in Genusis *bad spelling* eat, live, subdue the earth. basically to do that last one it boils down to go do Eve, not to vulgur but thats what it is!
Its in there in the first 3 chapters im positive of that. Basically Give glory to god (basically serve him really not that hard -evil) and enjoy ourself
God sure is nice your purpose is to hang with a super being and have fun.
DUDE!
Its in there in the first 3 chapters im positive of that. Basically Give glory to god (basically serve him really not that hard -evil) and enjoy ourself
God sure is nice your purpose is to hang with a super being and have fun.
DUDE!
We are there to live for others and mainly to live for God.
I think every people is responsible for his life and will be judged.
Life is difficult and i think that God knows it and never want from us what we cant able to do. Bible is a big power we have, but sometimes we do not use it or some peoples do not exactly know what is the sense (meaning) of it.. i think. my oppinion
I think every people is responsible for his life and will be judged.
Life is difficult and i think that God knows it and never want from us what we cant able to do. Bible is a big power we have, but sometimes we do not use it or some peoples do not exactly know what is the sense (meaning) of it.. i think. my oppinion
Make the world better. If you went through life and lived only for selfish things, your life was wasted. In the big picture, we are next to nothing. Yet if we try we can make a profound impact, good or bad, in other people's lives. The measure of a person is not thier house or thier job, but rather the positive change he brings about by his actions. I personally find that at the end of the day you feel better if you help others, rather than trying to use them(this doesn't mean letting them use you.)
The meaning of life: Be Happy
The life has no meaning, anythinf in this life has a meanuing, but because of our inteligence we think it has. thats why people belive in god. but the true is that there are things that doesnt have an explanation for us, and is not god.
I don`t think that the life have some specific meaning, after all we are just one kind of animal at a small planet in a small galaxy in a huge universe.
If life have a meaning i is something that WE decides, if you believe in god that may be your meaning of life.
Life becomes what we do of it.
If life have a meaning i is something that WE decides, if you believe in god that may be your meaning of life.
Life becomes what we do of it.
I really think, or even know that we have more than one life on this earth. We are on earth to learn something and until we learn IT we come back here again and again in the history...But what have we to learn and how, that's the question 
Meaning of life? Yeah, apart from being 42, I think it is at best something for us to explore and enjoy tremendously (how I don't know) and at worst something that one has to endure while hoping that he would go somewhere else (likely to be a better place) after death.
With me, the meaning of life is almost the first one (Yay, I'm ejnoying every single bits of it right now).
With me, the meaning of life is almost the first one (Yay, I'm ejnoying every single bits of it right now).
I'm believe alot in science and since matter can't be created or distroyed i believe that we just reincarnate in something else.
It is incredible that the human society evoluated to say that there is no meaning to our life !!!
does it mean that you can kill yourself and it doesn't matter !!!
I am sure that the life is a MIRACLE
everything shows that life on earth isn't a result of hazard, it is the result of very intelligent and powerfull creator
this creator says : I didn't create this to play
there is heaven and hell
there is justice in live
if there is no difference between those who make the good things and those who make the worst, it is no sense
at the same time GOD claimed that he is the creator
and he wants to know who are the people who make things as he wants and as he asked them to do, to show him that we love him
he says : "He is the one Who hath created death and live that He may try you , which of you is best in conduct ; and He is the Mighty , Forgiving"
it is difficult to say that our life has no meaning
we feel that we are here for a BIG thing
does it mean that you can kill yourself and it doesn't matter !!!
I am sure that the life is a MIRACLE
everything shows that life on earth isn't a result of hazard, it is the result of very intelligent and powerfull creator
this creator says : I didn't create this to play
there is heaven and hell
there is justice in live
if there is no difference between those who make the good things and those who make the worst, it is no sense
at the same time GOD claimed that he is the creator
and he wants to know who are the people who make things as he wants and as he asked them to do, to show him that we love him
he says : "He is the one Who hath created death and live that He may try you , which of you is best in conduct ; and He is the Mighty , Forgiving"
it is difficult to say that our life has no meaning
we feel that we are here for a BIG thing
I chose not to vote in this poll because the correct answer, acording to the bible, is not one of the options.
One of the options on there is heaven/hell. That would imply that the bible is a factor in that answer, because heaven and hell are from the bible. Now. Why is it that a answer from the bible is up there, but the answer that the bible SAYS is real, isn't up there.
One of the options on there is heaven/hell. That would imply that the bible is a factor in that answer, because heaven and hell are from the bible. Now. Why is it that a answer from the bible is up there, but the answer that the bible SAYS is real, isn't up there.
In fact, the bible says that when you die, you are asleep until the second coming of Jesus Christ. A time of which nobody knows the day nor the hour. Now by asleep, it means not that you are just sleeping, but that you aren't a spirit, and you don't go anywhere else, you are just dead until the end of time in which you will be risen.
There are a ton of verses that support this fact, but I'm not going to look them all up. Instead, I've created a website (not today, awhile back) for people who are looking for the real answer about "What happens when you die" And I think that the CORRECT answer to this question should be added to the poll, because what you're doing is asking people to pick an answer, when the correct answer (according to the bible on which this whole particular forum is based) is not present.
the website with the truth about what happens when we die is...
www.his-truth.com
There are a ton of verses that support this fact, but I'm not going to look them all up. Instead, I've created a website (not today, awhile back) for people who are looking for the real answer about "What happens when you die" And I think that the CORRECT answer to this question should be added to the poll, because what you're doing is asking people to pick an answer, when the correct answer (according to the bible on which this whole particular forum is based) is not present.
the website with the truth about what happens when we die is...
www.his-truth.com
| Maxtoid wrote: |
| And I think that the CORRECT answer to this question should be added to the poll, because what you're doing is asking people to pick an answer, when the correct answer (according to the bible on which this whole particular forum is based) is not present.
|
Yeah, that is how I remember learning it. But in the LONG run, isn't heaven/hell the final answer for christians? And I could be way off base, but I don't think this particular thread is assuming anything about the Bible being the correct answer.
there is no meaning of life unless u mean the dictionary meaning of the actual word "life" life is the state we are in. life itself is only real because we are alive. im confusing but yeh lol. there is no heaven or hell and the thought of a second coming of jesus. no such thing as god and heaven and hell are shitty beliefs of afterlife which isnt real. i used to be christian and if u take sencond coming literally then im guessing its already been, as when jesus was born we say thats the first, and resurrection was his second. all im pointing out is that life is something we are in before we rot inthe ground, like plants for example we grow consume resources age and finally die. after death we become a resource consumes by worms and plants fungi and whatnot.
edit:
QUOTAGE:
I'm believe alot in science and since matter can't be created or distroyed i believe that we just reincarnate in something else.
yeh the atoms themselves cant be destroyed or created but is that reincarnation or we have only become food for somethingelse? wow this is confusing because reincarnation in my dictionary says "embodiment in new form"
edit:
QUOTAGE:
I'm believe alot in science and since matter can't be created or distroyed i believe that we just reincarnate in something else.
yeh the atoms themselves cant be destroyed or created but is that reincarnation or we have only become food for somethingelse? wow this is confusing because reincarnation in my dictionary says "embodiment in new form"
| Maxtoid wrote: |
| I chose not to vote in this poll because the correct answer, acording to the bible, is not one of the options.
One of the options on there is heaven/hell. That would imply that the bible is a factor in that answer, because heaven and hell are from the bible. Now. Why is it that a answer from the bible is up there, but the answer that the bible SAYS is real, isn't up there. |
The Qur'an also states Heaven and Hell exists.
| Maxtoid wrote: |
| I chose not to vote in this poll because the correct answer, acording to the bible, is not one of the options.
One of the options on there is heaven/hell. That would imply that the bible is a factor in that answer, because heaven and hell are from the bible. Now. Why is it that a answer from the bible is up there, but the answer that the bible SAYS is real, isn't up there. |
i'm quite pleasantly surprised that
there is actually this topic here on.
something i've been pondering on for a while.
and for the moment, it's GIVING and GROWING
I'm definitely more happy for it.
I now believe that we come to this world for a
reason, special gifts to share with everyone
around us.
we're all candles brightening the darkness
and lighting other candles too through
our brilliance.
there's a great speech narrated by Nelson
Mandela from another author.
I'll see if i can find it and post it.
Al
there is actually this topic here on.
something i've been pondering on for a while.
and for the moment, it's GIVING and GROWING
I'm definitely more happy for it.
I now believe that we come to this world for a
reason, special gifts to share with everyone
around us.
we're all candles brightening the darkness
and lighting other candles too through
our brilliance.
there's a great speech narrated by Nelson
Mandela from another author.
I'll see if i can find it and post it.
Al
I guess when one starts to think about the meaning of life, the more one gets confused 
in whether to think about the past (start of life or birth) or the future (end of life or death). To start, I must agree, beyond science, there is meaning of life – its pure and true essence.
For a very complex topic of life, I would say an opinion as simple as I can. No one can fully define the meaning of life until the last breath. It is the individual that makes and gives meaning to his own life. He is the author, the director, and the actor of his life. The way and manner he lives his life is his meaning of life.
At his birth, the meaning is completely blank and empty. As he grows, he starts to write the meaning, and as he dies, he completes the meaning … of life. And what could that be? His relationship to his God (if he got one) and to all the things that surround him. Without a relationship (whether human or symbiotic) with the things that surround him, there is no meaning to life.
Life becomes as exciting and beautiful as it is now because NO ONE knows the meaning of his life completely, and everyone tries to search for it. Can you imagine living a life based on a novel you have already read where you knew the highlights and the ending? How boring life could be if that may be the case.
As much as the process of procreation remains a mystery even to the best and most modern science, its meaning is even fuller in mysteries.
Though no one may be able to give a complete definition of life, everyone can contribute and gives his own share to make life meaningful – because, still, we are all living in a very beautiful ONE world. And, here is the song that tries to capture the very essence of this topic thread. Included are links to two(2) video clips showing the old and new definition; and amazingly, both versions candidly define the beauty of life well.
By the way, to the other kind posters, thank you for sharing your life with us here in this thread. Indeed, it adds meaning to our co-existence.
| Quote: |
| What A Wonderful World
By Louis Armstrong I see trees of green, red roses too I see them bloom, for me and you And I think to myself, what a wonderful world I see skies of blue, and clouds of white The bright blessed day, dark sacred night And I think to myself, what a wonderful world The colors of the rainbow, so pretty in the sky Are also on the faces, of people going by I see friends shaking hands, sayin' "how do you do?" They're really sayin' "I love you" I hear babies cryin', I watch them grow They'll learn much more, than I'll ever know And I think to myself, what a wonderful world Yes I think to myself, what a wonderful world Oh yeah |
And here are the video clips to warm our hearts …
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I60PySlYySo <- the original version
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C1xUQllZj6M <- the new version. lol smile.
Thats a very tough one.Possibly the hardest question ever. I mean, are we the same as an ant or a lion, are we just mamals? Too hard. Maybe it is just to enjoy ourselves. Maybe our Universe is just a microscopic cell of an onion in another world. Time is a puzzeling thing. Why are we here?
I find it hard to believe that I saw no mention of Karma or Evolution in this entire thread. These are core concepts when considering the meaning of life. Now you bible thumpers will probably hate me for this, but where did human life come from? Our entire universe has been one great continuum of evolution since it's beginning. From the initial creation of the universe (however you want to believe it happened) there was only a huge expanse of gas, primarily hydrogen. This gas condensed because of gravity to form stars and nuclear fusion began to fuse hydrogen into helium (the next element up on the scale.) When these stars exploded as supernovae, helium was spread throughout the universe. Then when new stars were created these new stars fused helium into litium and then they exploded, etc. This is how all of the known elements in our universe formed. They basically evolved from the simplest (helium) to the most complex (ununhexium) through the lives of billions of stars over time. By the time our planet came into existence, the universe had an abundace of variety in the elements that existed. So when our planet condensed from the gas and dust that was the nebula our solar system formed from, we had all the building blocks of life right here on earth.
Here's where it gets a bit tricky. Somehow, some of these molecules combined to form the first proteins. And from these proteins came the more complex amino acids. And from these amino acids came the first single celled organisms. And then over billions of years, evolution carried these first single celled organisms into the complex, diverse group of animals we see today on earth.
Anyone who's not a religious nut and has any common sense and understanding of the formation of the universe and our planet can understand these fairly simple concepts. When you look at the history of life on our planet and the universe as a whole, you see a continuous move from something basic and simple, to things more complex. This is evolution and it is essential to our purpose in life. Evolution has been the driving force to create everything we see in our known universe and it is just as strong and steady today as it has been since the conception of the universe.
So how does this apply to us and our existence? Humans are obviously the pinnacle of evolution on this planet, and as far as we know, in the universe (not that this fact can't change...but we as of yet have not found any other intelligent life in the universe.) So is it so hard to believe that our lives have purpose? And that our purpose is to continue to evolve ourselves through the decisions and actions we choose to make in the time we're given?
All life has been going towards something higher. If you can think of frequencies (vibrations, like sound or light or for you quantum physicists, all matter and energy in the universe....string theory anyone?) Everything in the universe has been going from lower frequencies (more simple and basic) towards higher and higher frequencies (more complex.) How does one incorporate this into their own life?
This is where spirit comes in (as well as the concept of karma.) No, I didn't say religion. This is not about religion, as most mainstream religions have such a distorted concept of spirit and god that comes from misinterpretation of great religious texts, like the bible.
Spirit is everywhere. It is the driving force behind our lives. We live because spirit exists. We evolve through our connection with spirit. For those of you who are religious, feel free to substitute god for spirit...though try and avoid putting god into the catagory of an entity or being seperate from the world and seperate from us. God is not a person, nor can you personify god, though that is just what most religions do.
So how do we evolve? By bettering ourselves. We cannot change anything around us. We cannot change the way others act any more than we can change the time of day or the weather. We do not have control over others or events. How things unfold, the mysteries of life. We can hardly even control our own thoughts. Thankfully none of these things are important to control. What we can control is our words and more importantly, our actions. This is all we have control over, this is all we can change in this entire world we see. So how do we better anything with only this? How do we evolve into better human beings? The answer, my friends is through spirit...through love. Love is the sign of connection to spirit. Those who are happy are those with an abundance of love. Where does this love come from? There is a never ending supply of love through our connection with spirit. How do we connect to this spirit? We do so through our actions. When you act through love, you connect to the source of love. When you do a good deed, or show kindness or forgiveness or compassion to anyone at any time, you strengthen your connection with spirit, with the life force that sustains us all.
This is easier said than done of course. People everywhere have good intentions. But good intentions are useless without good actions. You can have all the good intentions in the world, but until you DO something about them, they're absolutely worthless. So stop intending to do something good, and start DOING IT! This is how we evolve toward higher spiritual levels. This is the purpose of life. Treat others as you wish to be treated. Do no harm to the living beings on this earth and instead do your best to help them, to serve them. Once you discover the power of love and compassion, you will discover what it means to become a better person, to evolve yourself to the next level and onward.
So where does karma fit in? What about heaven and hell? I'm no biblical scholar, but I do know that Jesus (a very spiritually enlightened individual) said that "the kingdom of heaven is here on earth." He didn't mean it figuratively or as a metaphor. He meant it literally. Heaven and hell exist here on earth. Which one are you living? Is your life filled with happiness and love? Or is it filled with the opposing feelings, such as depression, sadness, anger, jealousy, etc. Do you do good to others or do you despise them and treat them with hate? Answer this question and you will know whether you live more in heaven or more in hell. There is no specific location known as heaven or hell, but merely a continuum of happiness ranging from total depression and sadness to total bliss and happiness. Somewhere in between is where most people fall. Heaven and hell are merely how you view the world and a reflection of your actions. I myself prefer to strive to live in heaven, as the feeling of happiness and bliss is more enjoyable to live in. This doesn't mean that I can just say, "I choose to live in heaven." It's not quite that easy, but by making decisions as to how I act, I can work towards that happiness that is marked by an abundance of love and a lack of sorrow. And so can all of you! Choose to live your life in heaven, not hell. Because if you live this life in hell, your next life could be worse
So here comes karma. You don't have to believe in karma for karma to exist. Just like you don't have to believe in spirit for spirit to exist. Anyone who has any inkling of intelligence can look out at this beautiful world we live in and see that spirit exists. Beauty is a mark of spirit. What purpose does beauty serve otherwise? Regardless, karma exists and is a powerful force in this world. It is so simple a child can understand it. Do good and good will come to you, do bad and bad will come to you. Then comes a slightly more difficult concept to grasp. Karma is not instant. Karma is not predictable. It doesn't operate on your timeframe or anyone elses. You do something bad and at some point, in this life or the next, karma will make you pay for it.
Yes I believe in reincarnation. I didn't use to. But more and more it makes sense to me. Our essence is spirit. There is only one spirit, one life force that makes up all of creation, and we are each but one tiny part of it. When our bodies die, what happens to our spirit? It rejoins the whole. When someone is born, part of the whole, the spirit, is what gives them life. What's hard to conceptualize is that spirit is never seperated. There is one life force, one spirit, one god if you will. It is the force that creates everything large and small, the force that wills existence to exist. It does not have seperate parts. It is a whole. And yet we feel to be individuals. This is what keeps us from understanding spirit. We feel like an individual, so we must be. Our bodies are seperate from others and other things, but our spirit is not. We are all connected through spirit, through life, through god. So when our bodies die, our spirit remains because it is what creates existence. And when another is born, spirit gives them life. So this is not easy to visualize, but to me it is absolutely true. Spirit never dies. So our spirit (just a small part of a whole) never dies. And at some other point, our spirit provides the life for another body. Just as it has in the past and will continue to do in the future.
So karma again. Doing good brings good. Doing bad brings bad. Think of it like a karmic score card. Every good deed you do, you get a point. Every bad deed you do, you get a point subtracted. The more good you do, the more points you get, the more good things happen to you. Likewise with bad. Nobody likes it when bad things happen to them, but believing in karma allows us to not take it personally when those things do happen. We get what we deserve. Life IS fair. This also allows us to let go of grudges. Sure someone, might do something bad to you, and you think "man, I gotta get back at them because they DESERVE the punishment for what they did to me." Belief in karma lets you drop it, knowing full well that at some point the universe will get them for what they've done.
Anyway, karma is more of a side topic in this insanely long post of mine. Though my main point in bringing it up is to show that we have incentive to evolve. Again, the main purpose of life is to evolve. There is no doubt about it, though I'm sure many people won't agree (but who can argue that we all couldn't use a little improvement here and there?) Karma gives us the kick in the butt to do it! Doing good brings you good things! Life is easier when you choose to love others and do good things for them, because in turn, they love you back and do good things for you. This is our motivation!
So for anyone who actually took the time to read all of this, go out there and LOVE others! Who cares if they love you back right this second...you're not doing it for them, you're doing it for yourself. You're evolving and you're serving a higher purpose in this world. You're creating a better world for us all and for our children starting with yourself and your actions.
Who wouldn't want that?
Here's where it gets a bit tricky. Somehow, some of these molecules combined to form the first proteins. And from these proteins came the more complex amino acids. And from these amino acids came the first single celled organisms. And then over billions of years, evolution carried these first single celled organisms into the complex, diverse group of animals we see today on earth.
Anyone who's not a religious nut and has any common sense and understanding of the formation of the universe and our planet can understand these fairly simple concepts. When you look at the history of life on our planet and the universe as a whole, you see a continuous move from something basic and simple, to things more complex. This is evolution and it is essential to our purpose in life. Evolution has been the driving force to create everything we see in our known universe and it is just as strong and steady today as it has been since the conception of the universe.
So how does this apply to us and our existence? Humans are obviously the pinnacle of evolution on this planet, and as far as we know, in the universe (not that this fact can't change...but we as of yet have not found any other intelligent life in the universe.) So is it so hard to believe that our lives have purpose? And that our purpose is to continue to evolve ourselves through the decisions and actions we choose to make in the time we're given?
All life has been going towards something higher. If you can think of frequencies (vibrations, like sound or light or for you quantum physicists, all matter and energy in the universe....string theory anyone?) Everything in the universe has been going from lower frequencies (more simple and basic) towards higher and higher frequencies (more complex.) How does one incorporate this into their own life?
This is where spirit comes in (as well as the concept of karma.) No, I didn't say religion. This is not about religion, as most mainstream religions have such a distorted concept of spirit and god that comes from misinterpretation of great religious texts, like the bible.
Spirit is everywhere. It is the driving force behind our lives. We live because spirit exists. We evolve through our connection with spirit. For those of you who are religious, feel free to substitute god for spirit...though try and avoid putting god into the catagory of an entity or being seperate from the world and seperate from us. God is not a person, nor can you personify god, though that is just what most religions do.
So how do we evolve? By bettering ourselves. We cannot change anything around us. We cannot change the way others act any more than we can change the time of day or the weather. We do not have control over others or events. How things unfold, the mysteries of life. We can hardly even control our own thoughts. Thankfully none of these things are important to control. What we can control is our words and more importantly, our actions. This is all we have control over, this is all we can change in this entire world we see. So how do we better anything with only this? How do we evolve into better human beings? The answer, my friends is through spirit...through love. Love is the sign of connection to spirit. Those who are happy are those with an abundance of love. Where does this love come from? There is a never ending supply of love through our connection with spirit. How do we connect to this spirit? We do so through our actions. When you act through love, you connect to the source of love. When you do a good deed, or show kindness or forgiveness or compassion to anyone at any time, you strengthen your connection with spirit, with the life force that sustains us all.
This is easier said than done of course. People everywhere have good intentions. But good intentions are useless without good actions. You can have all the good intentions in the world, but until you DO something about them, they're absolutely worthless. So stop intending to do something good, and start DOING IT! This is how we evolve toward higher spiritual levels. This is the purpose of life. Treat others as you wish to be treated. Do no harm to the living beings on this earth and instead do your best to help them, to serve them. Once you discover the power of love and compassion, you will discover what it means to become a better person, to evolve yourself to the next level and onward.
So where does karma fit in? What about heaven and hell? I'm no biblical scholar, but I do know that Jesus (a very spiritually enlightened individual) said that "the kingdom of heaven is here on earth." He didn't mean it figuratively or as a metaphor. He meant it literally. Heaven and hell exist here on earth. Which one are you living? Is your life filled with happiness and love? Or is it filled with the opposing feelings, such as depression, sadness, anger, jealousy, etc. Do you do good to others or do you despise them and treat them with hate? Answer this question and you will know whether you live more in heaven or more in hell. There is no specific location known as heaven or hell, but merely a continuum of happiness ranging from total depression and sadness to total bliss and happiness. Somewhere in between is where most people fall. Heaven and hell are merely how you view the world and a reflection of your actions. I myself prefer to strive to live in heaven, as the feeling of happiness and bliss is more enjoyable to live in. This doesn't mean that I can just say, "I choose to live in heaven." It's not quite that easy, but by making decisions as to how I act, I can work towards that happiness that is marked by an abundance of love and a lack of sorrow. And so can all of you! Choose to live your life in heaven, not hell. Because if you live this life in hell, your next life could be worse
So here comes karma. You don't have to believe in karma for karma to exist. Just like you don't have to believe in spirit for spirit to exist. Anyone who has any inkling of intelligence can look out at this beautiful world we live in and see that spirit exists. Beauty is a mark of spirit. What purpose does beauty serve otherwise? Regardless, karma exists and is a powerful force in this world. It is so simple a child can understand it. Do good and good will come to you, do bad and bad will come to you. Then comes a slightly more difficult concept to grasp. Karma is not instant. Karma is not predictable. It doesn't operate on your timeframe or anyone elses. You do something bad and at some point, in this life or the next, karma will make you pay for it.
Yes I believe in reincarnation. I didn't use to. But more and more it makes sense to me. Our essence is spirit. There is only one spirit, one life force that makes up all of creation, and we are each but one tiny part of it. When our bodies die, what happens to our spirit? It rejoins the whole. When someone is born, part of the whole, the spirit, is what gives them life. What's hard to conceptualize is that spirit is never seperated. There is one life force, one spirit, one god if you will. It is the force that creates everything large and small, the force that wills existence to exist. It does not have seperate parts. It is a whole. And yet we feel to be individuals. This is what keeps us from understanding spirit. We feel like an individual, so we must be. Our bodies are seperate from others and other things, but our spirit is not. We are all connected through spirit, through life, through god. So when our bodies die, our spirit remains because it is what creates existence. And when another is born, spirit gives them life. So this is not easy to visualize, but to me it is absolutely true. Spirit never dies. So our spirit (just a small part of a whole) never dies. And at some other point, our spirit provides the life for another body. Just as it has in the past and will continue to do in the future.
So karma again. Doing good brings good. Doing bad brings bad. Think of it like a karmic score card. Every good deed you do, you get a point. Every bad deed you do, you get a point subtracted. The more good you do, the more points you get, the more good things happen to you. Likewise with bad. Nobody likes it when bad things happen to them, but believing in karma allows us to not take it personally when those things do happen. We get what we deserve. Life IS fair. This also allows us to let go of grudges. Sure someone, might do something bad to you, and you think "man, I gotta get back at them because they DESERVE the punishment for what they did to me." Belief in karma lets you drop it, knowing full well that at some point the universe will get them for what they've done.
Anyway, karma is more of a side topic in this insanely long post of mine. Though my main point in bringing it up is to show that we have incentive to evolve. Again, the main purpose of life is to evolve. There is no doubt about it, though I'm sure many people won't agree (but who can argue that we all couldn't use a little improvement here and there?) Karma gives us the kick in the butt to do it! Doing good brings you good things! Life is easier when you choose to love others and do good things for them, because in turn, they love you back and do good things for you. This is our motivation!
So for anyone who actually took the time to read all of this, go out there and LOVE others! Who cares if they love you back right this second...you're not doing it for them, you're doing it for yourself. You're evolving and you're serving a higher purpose in this world. You're creating a better world for us all and for our children starting with yourself and your actions.
Who wouldn't want that?
once i lived among 4 tibetan monks, and then joinesd other two from nepal, all this happend in south america a place called pucon in southern chile,
well, i dont know how life its supposed to work, i guess every time we try to put our fingers on its esence melts right through our hands
well, i dont know how life its supposed to work, i guess every time we try to put our fingers on its esence melts right through our hands
i love a haiku
that says something like,
the sky is blue
the wind runs free
what else can i want?
sometimes the present is all we have
that says something like,
the sky is blue
the wind runs free
what else can i want?
sometimes the present is all we have
| moralesc wrote: |
| i love a haiku
that says something like, the sky is blue the wind runs free what else can i want? sometimes the present is all we have |
No offense, but a haiku traditionally consists of 3 lines where the first and last line contain 5 syllables and the middle line contains 7. So what you posted isn't really a haiku, though it is a nice little poem.
The art of Haiku
Looses much of it's impact
When scansion is off
Compose poetry
With 5 and seven and 5
To follow the norm
So the sky is blue
Will do nicely for the start
Haiku then follows
And the wind runs free
Can also be used by you
In your quest for verse
But beware the trap
Of counting syllables wrong
You end up short......
:-)
Chris
Looses much of it's impact
When scansion is off
Compose poetry
With 5 and seven and 5
To follow the norm
So the sky is blue
Will do nicely for the start
Haiku then follows
And the wind runs free
Can also be used by you
In your quest for verse
But beware the trap
Of counting syllables wrong
You end up short......
:-)
Chris
| myrevolt wrote: |
| It's to do something good & important. (not just the born>elementary>junior high>high school>college>work>retirement>die cycle). Everyone has different religious beliefs...mine just happen to be rotting in the groud That or some sort of Futurama cryogenic freezing |
It is interesting you said that because over 80% of the humans do actualy follow that boring cycle. im an atheist but i believe in religion. what i mean by this is that i believe in the true meaning of religions,(not church) the meaning behind religions is to drive hope into the souls of men (may it be electric charges or some essence we cant comprehend). And hope is one beutifull thing. Does it Realy matter whats behind door #3 is it jesus and lucifer is it vast emptyness, 32 black haired virgins, being reborn. Maybe one of these is the answer, maybe none. the question is. How does answering this question Affect how you live ur 40-50ish years your bestowed upon this earth. if god exist does this mean you will try harder to enjoy life and make it worth praise. If god doesnt exist, wont you wish you did the same anyway. I believe this forum is wrongly named. the question is not "whats the meaning of life?" it should be "Whats the meaning of death?" and Once you reorder this question the answer hits you in the face like a semi truck withought breaks. It is to find if your Life was Meaningfull. After-life or not, are you proud of what you have become. how you have treated people. The oportunities that arrived, how many did you take, how many you refused. the people you loved, hated, dreamed, desired and admired. your actions, how much pride do you bestow upon them. I once heard a statistic that said " over 97% whose last words have been recorded, are last words of regret. this includes religious, non religious, religious fanatics, and those who believe in reincarnation. "Whats the meaning of life".... To make your life meaninfull. Once you acomplish this, after-life or not, you will not fear dying. People dont fear Death, they fear losing the oportunity to make a change in their life, a change they have been postponing for dumb reasons and now regret. as in the words of Pumpkin in "Dead like me" tv Series
"Life is a Vacation and Death is the Job"
Find a Balance between
Enjoying life
and Being Proud of your Actions
and death becomes meaningless
Hope you Enjoyed my rant
My point of view is a very scientific one... I think that the possibilty of the big bang was not the first big bang But the only big bang that was sucsessfull. if the gravity or the explosive power was just a little bit higher/lower the results could be catastrophic and may result in no universe been made at all. mabye There are many differnt universes.Some scientist(i cant rememer there name please dont flame me) said that every action we do the opsite of that action creates another universe where the exact opsite happend. for example im sat here typing this post in another universe i could be just looking at this thread. So mabye there where thousands of big bangs that we dont know about in many other universes, but becuase of the opisate action univese thing i said there might not be life in the other univerises but there could exist. So mabye us been here on this world in this universe was just a freak acident and Every religeon are the ways people have coverd this story. I'm probably very wrong but think about it, What are the chances of one in billions of asteriods hitting the earth and this freak asteroid contained the building blocks of life. And mabye Every single so called "miracle" is just a one in a million freak acident. and becuase of this of chance that created the human race mabye there is no meaning of life prehaps we're just here to live...
| nathanuk wrote: |
| My point of view is a very scientific one. |
A scientific view is one built on sound logical reasoning, a good basis in existing theory and basic laws to formulate a hypothesis which can be refuted and, ideally, can be tested empirically in observation or experiment.
Now, this multiple Big Bang theory....do you like this hypothesis because you have had problems resolving the current model and don't really think the inflationary epoch produces sufficient baryon number violations to explain the matter/anti-matter mix we observe ? If so, nice one. That is a truly scientific point of view. If, however, that sounds like gibberish, then I suggest (kindly and helpfully) that the view is no more scientific than pixies and fairies. What is wrong with the standard model ? Why choose this particular variant ?
The multiple BB theory is a perfectly respectable theory but it is proposed for a reason and not because it sounds good or is more satisfying to our sense of continuity. I think the version you mean is the infinite multiverse where there is an alternative universe for every possible action/outcome. That means there is a universe where you are French, one where you are a girl, and one for every other possible state you can imagine.
The opposite action 'thing' I presume is a reference to Newton and the laws of motion ? Every action has an equal and opposite reaction ? That would not be specifically important in this case since there are several more forces and dimensions involved that our normal 4 so the math is going to be a bit more hairy than good old Newton...It's a good law, though, I always liked Newtonian mechanics.
Have you done any physics yet ? I'm guessing you are still pretty young so you may not have done.
Best wishes
Chris
What is the meaning of life? There is none. Now accept that. And get over it.
I believe that we just live and then just die, who knows what happens next...
we just live to die ... Die for what ? To give manure to plants to give something to eat to our childrens
Exactly.
But make sure you give the manure to the plants not the children. 
Isn't that emoticon the most annoying emoticon of all times? Shall I start a new thread on that one? With a poll of course
Isn't that emoticon the most annoying emoticon of all times? Shall I start a new thread on that one? With a poll of course
We go to heaven/hell - it really only depends how many good or bad things we made during live. this sentence is only the end of the question, or the beginning? am i a good or bad person? have you already asked it about your self? i did.
We are reincarnated as something else - maybe we reincarnate in other king of living creature. some beliefs say that if we do not fulfil our porpose during live we return again, but if we fulfil the prpose than we go to the next stage.
Thats it, nothing else,our brain dies - We go to heaven/hell. and the soul?
Our spirit lives on, and we can go anywhere on earth - thats my belief
We are reincarnated as something else - maybe we reincarnate in other king of living creature. some beliefs say that if we do not fulfil our porpose during live we return again, but if we fulfil the prpose than we go to the next stage.
Thats it, nothing else,our brain dies - We go to heaven/hell. and the soul?
Our spirit lives on, and we can go anywhere on earth - thats my belief
When death comes I am no longer, When I am there death is no longer so Why to think about death????
If you need an definate answer come and meet me after my funeral.
If you need an definate answer come and meet me after my funeral.
| hdfailure wrote: |
| We go to heaven/hell - it really only depends how many good or bad things we made during live. this sentence is only the end of the question, or the beginning? am i a good or bad person? have you already asked it about your self? i did.
We are reincarnated as something else - maybe we reincarnate in other king of living creature. some beliefs say that if we do not fulfil our porpose during live we return again, but if we fulfil the prpose than we go to the next stage. |
| Quote: |
|
Thats it, nothing else,our brain dies - We go to heaven/hell. and the soul? |
If the body decomposes and the brain dies then what is the 'we' that is left ? Purely Spirit ?
| Quote: |
|
Our spirit lives on, and we can go anywhere on earth - thats my belief |
A disembodied spirit ? What does it do ?
Chris.
The meaning of life... ahhh, an interesting question.
We cannot know the meaning of life until we know why we are here. If we never figure that out, then life is meaningless. If we do, then what a joy. When we figure out why we are here, what our purpose is, we will have something to live for. So this brings us to a more appropriate question, what is life worth living for? To help others? To get aquire as much wealth as we can? If we are to help others, how do we want to help? We all have different abilities so that we can use them to help those who lack in the abilities we have.
What a joy when we decover why we are here. With the attitude, "we live to die" is empty. So what is that you do to make life worth living?
____________________
www.socialoutcast.co.nr
We cannot know the meaning of life until we know why we are here. If we never figure that out, then life is meaningless. If we do, then what a joy. When we figure out why we are here, what our purpose is, we will have something to live for. So this brings us to a more appropriate question, what is life worth living for? To help others? To get aquire as much wealth as we can? If we are to help others, how do we want to help? We all have different abilities so that we can use them to help those who lack in the abilities we have.
What a joy when we decover why we are here. With the attitude, "we live to die" is empty. So what is that you do to make life worth living?
____________________
www.socialoutcast.co.nr
| socialoutcast wrote: |
| The meaning of life... ahhh, an interesting question.
We cannot know the meaning of life until we know why we are here. If we never figure that out, then life is meaningless. If we do, then what a joy. When we figure out why we are here, what our purpose is, we will have something to live for. So this brings us to a more appropriate question, what is life worth living for? To help others? To get aquire as much wealth as we can? If we are to help others, how do we want to help? We all have different abilities so that we can use them to help those who lack in the abilities we have. What a joy when we decover why we are here. With the attitude, "we live to die" is empty. So what is that you do to make life worth living? ____________________ www.socialoutcast.co.nr |
We are here because we are here, there is no need to take it further and believe me it does not make life meaningless or empty.
If some people wish to believe in a divine plan then fine..their choice. If others want to believe in the great green Arklseizure theory then also fine - their choice. Neither of these can possibly be shown to increase meaning in life beyond the perception of the individual. That perception could, of course be wrong or right. Is it better to live a happy delusion than slightly less happy reality I wonder ? For me, no.
I just really don't like the suggestion that atheists live sad meaningless lives and limp miserably through to the meaningless end. My own life is nothing like that and I rarely consider 'the meaning' nowadays since I am content to accept the fact that there is no 'meaning' laid down but we can make out own meaning and sense which is more difficult than following a recipe, of course, but can also be more rewarding and fullfilling.
Regards
Chris.
PS - I'm not sure that you were making the point I seem to be ascribing to you - my response was more a general point than a specific response to your post - it was the words meaningless and empty that set me down that train.
I feel like the meaning of life is different to different people. To someone it might mean to get as much money as possible. To someone else maybe the meaning of life is to be as holy as possible. To a totaly different person the meaning of life might be to have sex with as many people as possible before they die. To most people the meaning of life is probably just to make themselves happy. I know that has a little bit to do with my own definition of the meaning of life, but due to religion the meaning of life is tainted by the meaning or quality of the afterlife. To me the meaning of life is to use what talents God has given me to become a successful person in my own way and be able to share Gods love like he wants me to. I believe God has given me a great family that has been a very good example in my life so that I in turn can also build a wonderful family. He has also blessed me with the ability to succeed in school and therefore I should be able to have a good carear and maybe even start my own buisness and in turn he will provide ways for me to share his love in those environments.
| Bikerman wrote: |
| PS - I'm not sure that you were making the point I seem to be ascribing to you - my response was more a general point than a specific response to your post - it was the words meaningless and empty that set me down that train. |
In Internet forums, one must not take things too personnally.
"We are here Because we are here." What does that mean? Is there no purpose in life? does the question "why?" not exist? Why do you go to work, school, eat or sleep? Because it's a necessity? Yes, These things we need in order to survive, but that doesn't mean we have to enjoy them, or do we? Instead of pondering life's meaning, what is that keeps you motivated? This may be a simplier question to comprehind. It could be just the bare essentials to keep us breathing. Or is there meaning beyond those things? And finally, can there be meaning without purpose?
For me, it is three things. Love God, Love people and drink coffee.
______________________
http://www.socialoutcast.co.nr
| kcthomas44 wrote: |
| ... To me the meaning of life is to use what talents God has given me to become a successful person in my own way and be able to share Gods love like he wants me to. I believe God has given me a great family that has been a very good example in my life so that I in turn can also build a wonderful family. He has also blessed me with the ability to succeed in school and therefore I should be able to have a good carear and maybe even start my own buisness and in turn he will provide ways for me to share his love in those environments. |
This is one of the nice posts I read here at Frihost. It is simply worded but beautifully conveyed – thus makes a lot of sense and attraction. The post is based on self-experience and living examples and not just using some highfalutin words to create ‘imaginary’ impressions. I still like to read post about the ‘meaning of life’ that comes from the mind and heart because this kind of posts is less seen in an electronic discussion world, where even RObots can interact using their own information database (which are so easily and readily available now everywhere in the www) - though you can easily recognize their kinds because of their preference to technical lines rather than the emotional side of the discussion. Anyway, that is expected because no matter how RObots are AI-programmed, they can never emulate human emotion to the acceptable level.
Yes only the experiences and examples of a human being can give pure and sensible definition to the meaning of life itself. RObots can provide nothing but cheap copycats. If you have been to chatrooms and forums where ‘bots’ are installed to add artificial activities; and you are able to interact with them, then you will observe how ‘boring’ the discussion becomes as it progresses. Then, you will appreciate your life even more because you have been given this precious life where emotion plays a great motivating factor to excel in doing great to (and for) others, including the manner how you speak up your heart and mind. Hence, as the discussion progresses… you are revealing the wonderful workings in your life… and is there a better way to define life than the way you live it?
Life is for the living. We have seen a lot of statically emotionless ‘encyclopedic’ RObots online. It is time to hear from human beings.
| socialoutcast wrote: |
|
"We are here Because we are here." What does that mean? Is there no purpose in life? does the question "why?" not exist? |
The basic question, however, is answered 'because we are here' not in some trivial sense but in a statement of the anthropic principle.
| Quote: |
|
Why do you go to work, school, eat or sleep? Because it's a necessity? Yes, These things we need in order to survive, but that doesn't mean we have to enjoy them, or do we? Instead of pondering life's meaning, what is that keeps you motivated? This may be a simplier question to comprehind. It could be just the bare essentials to keep us breathing. Or is there meaning beyond those things? And finally, can there be meaning without purpose? |
Is there meaning beyond this ? If you think so then yes, for you there is.
Can there be meaning without purpose? No. Not in a strict sense. Meaning is defined as the intended output. Without intent, therefore, there can be no meaning. That does not mean that individuals cannot find meaning for themselves of course.
Chris
Interesting way of putting it, Bikerman. Of course the question "why?" is still not answered by the statement "because we are." The question of "why?" is subjuective. It is up to you, what it means. But then such an anwser of "we just are," would end with one last question, why bother?
Why bother with all this? This is what drives us to understanding what is around us such as the mind, people, history, biology, the universe. All of these are classified into different sciences for study so that we can understand them better, even God has his own, theology, though more abstract and spiritual.
I will agree that what motivates us as individuals varies and is impossible to state generally, until we ask them individually, as we will get our different answers.
No purpose and no meaning is just accepting everything as it is without question and go with the flow, just like plumming, and wash up, deluted in the sea of ideas.
So, it there purpose? Do not think about this question, but think about this one. What is it that you want out of life?
Love God, Love people, drink coffee.
www.socialoutcast.co.nr
Why bother with all this? This is what drives us to understanding what is around us such as the mind, people, history, biology, the universe. All of these are classified into different sciences for study so that we can understand them better, even God has his own, theology, though more abstract and spiritual.
I will agree that what motivates us as individuals varies and is impossible to state generally, until we ask them individually, as we will get our different answers.
No purpose and no meaning is just accepting everything as it is without question and go with the flow, just like plumming, and wash up, deluted in the sea of ideas.
So, it there purpose? Do not think about this question, but think about this one. What is it that you want out of life?
Love God, Love people, drink coffee.
www.socialoutcast.co.nr
| socialoutcast wrote: |
| Interesting way of putting it, Bikerman. Of course the question "why?" is still not answered by the statement "because we are." The question of "why?" is subjuective. It is up to you, what it means. But then such an anwser of "we just are," would end with one last question, why bother? |
That doesn't follow. Accepting that we exist as a chance event rather than predeterminism does not necessarily lead to a negative conclusion. I am quite happy with the accident and enjoy my fortune. I bother because I like it.
| Quote: |
|
Why bother with all this? This is what drives us to understanding what is around us such as the mind, people, history, biology, the universe. All of these are classified into different sciences for study so that we can understand them better, even God has his own, theology, though more abstract and spiritual. |
| Quote: |
|
I will agree that what motivates us as individuals varies and is impossible to state generally, until we ask them individually, as we will get our different answers. No purpose and no meaning is just accepting everything as it is without question and go with the flow, just like plumming, and wash up, deluted in the sea of ideas. |
I think you have it backwards. Accepting a religion means accepting as it is without question. The religious have scriptures to tell them what the game is, what the outcome will be and what it all is for. Accepting no designer or predetermined plan does not mean accepting anything as it is, rather the opposite - many of us are in a continual state of question with regard to the Universe and how it came to be, what the chances of other life are, and a miriad of different questions.
| Quote: |
|
So, it there purpose? Do not think about this question, but think about this one. What is it that you want out of life? |
I want what I am currently getting. Friendships and love, knowledge, physical satisfaction, mental stimulation, and so on.
Chris.
| Quote: |
| Accepting a religion means accepting as it is without question. |
No No and No. You have to consider this. How do you that your religion is right? There is a process to test whether somethings is rght or not. This process can be used in many contexts. Science is the biggest one to use this method, religious matters, everyday things in life.
Truth must be tested to make it believable to you or me. Is a good practice to test ways in which you do things to make sure what you do is correct.
| Quote: |
|
I want what I am currently getting. Friendships and love, knowledge, physical satisfaction, mental stimulation, and so on. |
So this is your motivation for living.
____________________
www.socialoutcast.co.nr
From a Christian view point the meaning of life is to serve God, the almighty being who makes the final decision as to whether we ascend to heaven for eternal bliss or descend to hell for eternal torment based simply on whether we have committed our lives to having His son Jesus the Christ as our Lord and Savior by maintaining our relationship with Him via Prayer and Study of His Word.
sorry for the run on sentence, lol
sorry for the run on sentence, lol
God directs my life through His word.
But I'll make it simple.
If you're going to die some time later, then why live?
Think about it, all things are meaningless if you're going to die. Do you make 50,000$ a year or more? Or earn just 5$ a day? Do you live to please your family, your boss, your friends, your company, or yourself? Life is earning money so we can do what we want?
Going for your hobbies on weekends? Work on weekdays? Family day on Sunday? Have you been cheating, stealing, or making other people miserable? Are you the guy who goes to church always? Is your motto to live life to the fullest? Is life for you 'understanding life'?
Are you a disabled person? Or not? Are you famous or an ordinary citizen? Intelligent? Highly-respected? Or the other way around? Are you serious in life?
Is life doing good deeds? Or no God? Or someone who don't care? Catholic? Christian? Atheist? Muslim? What religion do you have? ..if you have one. What do you believe in?
You name it! They're all meaningless because everybody dies -- even if you don't bother at all!
So, why live my friend?
But I'll make it simple.
If you're going to die some time later, then why live?
Think about it, all things are meaningless if you're going to die. Do you make 50,000$ a year or more? Or earn just 5$ a day? Do you live to please your family, your boss, your friends, your company, or yourself? Life is earning money so we can do what we want?
Going for your hobbies on weekends? Work on weekdays? Family day on Sunday? Have you been cheating, stealing, or making other people miserable? Are you the guy who goes to church always? Is your motto to live life to the fullest? Is life for you 'understanding life'?
Are you a disabled person? Or not? Are you famous or an ordinary citizen? Intelligent? Highly-respected? Or the other way around? Are you serious in life?
Is life doing good deeds? Or no God? Or someone who don't care? Catholic? Christian? Atheist? Muslim? What religion do you have? ..if you have one. What do you believe in?
You name it! They're all meaningless because everybody dies -- even if you don't bother at all!
So, why live my friend?
If afterlife was anything like those clay kid movies, I'd do anything to live. I'm appealed to anything, I just don't want nothing. What happens to a conscience is answered by find what a conscience is.
| jeromep wrote: |
| If you're going to die some time later, then why live?
Think about it, all things are meaningless if you're going to die. Do you make 50,000$ a year or more? Or earn just 5$ a day? Do you live to please your family, your boss, your friends, your company, or yourself? Life is earning money so we can do what we want? |
I'll add to this one here. King Solomom once said, "Meaningless! Meaningless! says the Teacher. Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless," in the book of Ecclesiastes. I believe what he was referring to was "everything under the sun," -- the tangible things of this world--the things which can be destroyed by rot, rust, fire, flood, vandles or thieves.
"So why live?" Is the question. Our life is what we make of it, and we only get one. Also, life is full of causes and effects. What we decide to do, there are going to be undeniable consequinces -- good and bad. "So why live?" We, as humans, have the unique ability, above all other life-forms, to make our own decisions, to decide what we think, what to do with our life, and not follow instinct. What we decide to live for, to die for, what matters to us is is what makes life worth living.
| Quote: |
| Going for your hobbies on weekends? Work on weekdays? Family day on Sunday? Have you been cheating, ... Are you serious in life?
... if you have one. What do you believe in? |
These things mention above are all that makes up who you are. Wealth, style, possessions and all things are all subject to rot, rust, fire, flood, vandles and theives. Knowledge, wisdom and folklore may be pass down from generations, but all of these are bound to the the dirt of the earth.
What is life worth living for then? What is it that you are doing now? Do you believe what you are doing is right? Is this the thing you believe matters most to you? Then this is what is worth living for and what is worth dying for.
P.S.
| jeromep wrote: |
| You name it! They're all meaningless because everybody dies -- even if you don't bother at all! Wink |
Jeromep, are you advocating sucide if everything is "so" meaningless?
____________________
www.socialoutcast.co.nr
Yes.
So! To those who understood this and lost hope in life, God wants you to know that He loves you, and He wants to come in your life. There is hope in Him.
So! To those who understood this and lost hope in life, God wants you to know that He loves you, and He wants to come in your life. There is hope in Him.
| jeromep wrote: |
| Yes.
So! To those who understood this and lost hope in life, God wants you to know that He loves you, and He wants to come in your life. There is hope in Him. |
Jeromep,
is that a "Yes" to that you really are avocating suicide to secular people? If this is truely the case, where is your Christ like love which is spoken of in Scripture. You should know this as you stated earlier;
| jeromep wrote: |
| God directs my life through His word. |
These people may not know Christ or they may flat-out reject Him, but avocating someone to kill themself is not God's way and therefore shouldn't be yours.
As for things being meaningless, it is the things of this world that is meaningless, but it is the love God that continues throughout His creation and is beyond our understanding, but still plenty of examples to follow. It is by this which we are to uphold to everyone.
With all due respect everyone else who reads this, what you believe, what your are and what you enjoy is worth living for within the context of the law, of course.
______________________
www.socialoutoutcast.co.nr
I am not making any more comments on that
I believe that there will be nothin else after we die. If someone can prove the opposite, then I ll believe that, but if one uses his or her common sense he or she will doubt it.
| socialoutcast wrote: | ||
No No and No. You have to consider this. How do you that your religion is right? There is a process to test whether somethings is rght or not. This process can be used in many contexts. Science is the biggest one to use this method, religious matters, everyday things in life. |
In your own words...No No No. Religion does not use anything approximate to scientific method and nor can it, since it is not science and makes no testable statements.
| Quote: |
|
Truth must be tested to make it believable to you or me. Is a good practice to test ways in which you do things to make sure what you do is correct. |
So do tell me then, how do you evaluate the truth of christianity as opposed to (say) hinduism ?
As for truth being tested to make it believable...once again, no, no and no. It matters little if you believe a truth since it will still be true.
| Quote: | ||
So this is your motivation for living. |
Yep. Absolutely.
Chris
| Bikerman wrote: | ||||
In your own words...No No No. Religion does not use anything approximate to scientific method and nor can it, since it is not science and makes no testable statements. |
First off, you began that "no no no..." thing (ha ha ha). Secondly, what I'm trying to get across is that there must be a method devised that we can use confirm what we know to be true and false. The following is an illistration, so don't get bent out of shape. The scientific method is simply a method to check our observations for consistancy. (illistration done). But what we believe is what can give us, as indiviuals, purpose.
| Quote: |
| Truth must be tested to make it believable to you or me. Is a good practice to test ways in which you do things to make sure what you do is correct. |
| Quote: |
| So do tell me then, how do you evaluate the truth of christianity as opposed to (say) hinduism ? As for truth being tested to make it believable...once again, no, no and no. It matters little if you believe a truth since it will still be true. |
The truth does not take sides.
| Quote: | ||
So this is your motivation for living. Yep. Absolutely. |
Perhaps this indeed answers the question, "why?" for you.
| Quote: |
| So, it there purpose? Do not think about this question, but think about this one. What is it that you want out of life? |
| Quote: |
| Why do you go to work, school, eat or sleep? Because it's a necessity? Yes, These things we need in order to survive, but that doesn't mean we have to enjoy them, or do we? Instead of pondering life's meaning, what is that keeps you motivated? This may be a simplier question to comprehind. It could be just the bare essentials to keep us breathing. Or is there meaning beyond those things? And finally, can there be meaning without purpose? |
Perhaps then, the point to your life is simple to just continue. So perhaps the next logical questions is continue where?
Love God, love people, drink coffee.
www.socialoutcast.co.nr
| socialoutcast wrote: |
| First off, you began that "no no no..." thing (ha ha ha).
|
| Quote: |
| Secondly, what I'm trying to get across is that there must be a method devised that we can use confirm what we know to be true and false. The following is an illistration, so don't get bent out of shape. The scientific method is simply a method to check our observations for consistancy. (illistration done). But what we believe is what can give us, as indiviuals, purpose.
|
No. The scientific method checks more than consistency.
| Quote: | ||
The truth does not take sides. |
What is that supposed to mean ? It's gibberish. The truth, if it exists, does not take anything, it simply is.
| Quote: |
| So, it there purpose? Do not think about this question, but think about this one. What is it that you want out of life? |
| Quote: |
| Why do you go to work, school, eat or sleep? Because it's a necessity? Yes, These things we need in order to survive, but that doesn't mean we have to enjoy them, or do we? Instead of pondering life's meaning, what is that keeps you motivated? This may be a simplier question to comprehind. It could be just the bare essentials to keep us breathing. Or is there meaning beyond those things? And finally, can there be meaning without purpose? |
My comprehension is pretty good, I think, so don't worry about keeping it simple enough for me. The things I listed ARE the things I want out of life and the things that motivate me. What part of that is difficult to understand? As for meaning without purpose, I agree that one implies the other and have no problem with that. I deny a universal predefined purpose and I also deny a universal predefined meaning. Both are subjective/personal.
| Quote: |
| Perhaps then, the point to your life is simple to just continue. So perhaps the next logical questions is continue where? |
I gave you a list of the things that give meaning and purpose to my life. Friendships and love, knowledge, physical satisfaction, mental stimulation. What you are demanding is an external design which is a completely different thing. I do not accept that there is a plan and therefore a universal 'goal' or 'purpose' in that sense, so different individuals will find different purpose to their different lives. It's not too difficult a concept.
Regards
Chris
| Quote: |
| I do not accept that there is a plan and therefore a universal 'goal' or 'purpose' in that sense, so different individuals will find different purpose to their different lives. It's not too difficult a concept. |
Exactly.
I would not subscribe to the idea that there is a preset series of events that we are to follow in the course of arre lifetime. That's ridiculous. I would agree here, Bikerman, that my purpose on an individual level is differant than your purpose and is also differant then other persons. Purpose is what you make of it.
____________________
www.socialoutcast.co.nr
42, lol. I love The Hitchiker's Guide To The Galexy.
Anyway, seriously, there is no meaning to life. Life is a Scientific accident (coincidence, if you will).
Anyway, seriously, there is no meaning to life. Life is a Scientific accident (coincidence, if you will).
Love and be happy.
Well i could start making the same quote and claiming that the meaning of life is 42, but we have all read douglas adams and we all know that this answer isn't necissarily satifying.
I don't think this question can be answered in general, it is a very personal question, that everyone has to answer for themselves. Why am I on this planet, what is the meaning of my life?
These are good questions to aks yourself. Is happiness the answer or maybe joy. I see the meaning of my life as a contribution to something bigger, something more sustainable. I would like to contribute to the world existence and do everything possible to keep this world a beautiful place.
I don't think this question can be answered in general, it is a very personal question, that everyone has to answer for themselves. Why am I on this planet, what is the meaning of my life?
These are good questions to aks yourself. Is happiness the answer or maybe joy. I see the meaning of my life as a contribution to something bigger, something more sustainable. I would like to contribute to the world existence and do everything possible to keep this world a beautiful place.
Does it have to be satisfying?
There could be absolutely no point. You just make your own.
There could be absolutely no point. You just make your own.
| Spe_eddy wrote: |
| What do you think the meaning of life actually is? I know from a religious point of view, there is heaven/hell/reincarnation etc., but what if you're not religious, is it to be happy? to make others happy, or just to continue the human race? |
ofcourse many people wonder why we are alife and with what reason. I have questioned it myself and actually, it was pointless to wonder. I don't have a religion and I'm not willing to have one, I just have my own purpose in life. being happy, making people happy and making something out of life are my most important targets. I don't even care what happens if I die ^^ if I'm in my death bed and I can tell myself "I have no regrets in life" then I can die happy ^^
ofcourse from the evolution point of view, everyone keeps the human race alive and it's something that happens automatically. it's not that people don't make babies anymore because that's not their purpose.
owh by the way, I don't have a religion, but I do have my own believe and I made it up myself. it's called "Shin" and it doesn't have any rules or anything, but it does have some principles. If I would have a difficult time, I think about those principles and I become somewhat happy again or at least calm.
Everything is meaningful but nothing has a meaning!
When you see that it is all has no meaning at all, when you see that it is all tremendously meaningful and when you see that two points at the same time - then you should know that you have get it! Yes, this life could be understood only if with contradictions...
When you see that it is all has no meaning at all, when you see that it is all tremendously meaningful and when you see that two points at the same time - then you should know that you have get it! Yes, this life could be understood only if with contradictions...
| Quote: |
| Although I find it very interesting to discuss about these things. There is, seems to me, always the same re-occuring problem. Words have a different meaning for everybody - and as long as you do not agree about them, words do not really connect between people.
Before starting a sound conversation you need to know what you are talking about. About this topic: what do you mean with the term 'meaning'. Does it necessarily have to do with future or is a thing that only takes place right here, right now. Does it have to do with your own responsibilities in life, or is it a thing that takes place with other people. Or, even more, does it only comply to your own reality, or does it have to do with the universe (everything). My first response to your question would be: it has - if you want to, it doesn't if you don't. |
I believe in order to find the meaning of life,one must first define life.
My definition of life is : The ability to be able to process thought.
Think about it, if you are able to think right, you can live your life. If you are dead, you can no longer process thought. If you are a fetus, can you think? Nope, that is why I don't consider fetuses and insane people truely alive.
My definition of life is : The ability to be able to process thought.
Think about it, if you are able to think right, you can live your life. If you are dead, you can no longer process thought. If you are a fetus, can you think? Nope, that is why I don't consider fetuses and insane people truely alive.
| Cephalic_Carnage wrote: |
| I believe in order to find the meaning of life,one must first define life.
My definition of life is : The ability to be able to process thought. Think about it, if you are able to think right, you can live your life. If you are dead, you can no longer process thought. If you are a fetus, can you think? Nope, that is why I don't consider fetuses and insane people truely alive. |
Hmm....and presumably bacteria, virii and 'lower' lifeforms are also not alive ? A foetus must, surely, be capably of thought to some extent since the very act of learning surely implies mental processing does it not ? If an insane person is not 'truly alive' then does that make them non-living ?
Chris.
| Bikerman wrote: | ||
Hmm....and presumably bacteria, virii and 'lower' lifeforms are also not alive ? A foetus must, surely, be capably of thought to some extent since the very act of learning surely implies mental processing does it not ? If an insane person is not 'truly alive' then does that make them non-living ? Chris. |
Yeah, I figured that part out about a day after I posted it. My defenition is flawed, but this begs another question. Is it possible to even define life?
| Cephalic_Carnage wrote: |
|
Yeah, I figured that part out about a day after I posted it. My defenition is flawed, but this begs another question. Is it possible to even define life? |
I seem to remember from my Biology (many moons ago) that there were 7 criteria....
respiration, locomotion, reproduction
after that I forget....
Chris
Well, as I am a muslim, I think, that after dead it is going to be a life. Life after death, as you call it. This world it is only a path for me, only a test, which is made by God, the greatest. I don't find any reason, why I am believing in this, or so, but still I believe. I don't believe in science and people, who are saying, that after we die, theres no life.
| Noner wrote: |
| Well, as I am a muslim, I think, that after dead it is going to be a life. Life after death, as you call it. This world it is only a path for me, only a test, which is made by God, the greatest. I don't find any reason, why I am believing in this, or so, but still I believe. I don't believe in science and people, who are saying, that after we die, theres no life. |
Science and life after death need not contradict each other, even though some scientists are atheists.
Saying you don't believe in science is like saying you don't believe that juggernauts have the ability to kill you if you cross the road carelessly. It may be what you want to believe, but it isn't true and it WILL kill you. Science does not need believers, it just gets on with doing it's thing. Whether you ignore it or not, progress will continue and science will progress.
Believe is a word which is not really applicable to factual stuff, as I have tried to point out to others before. You believe something where there is a chance it may be wrong. You don't 'believe' something if you are convinced and positive of it's existence. For example, you would not say "I believe in the colour red" or "I believe that there are people with red hair" - it sounds daft. You would say "There are people with red hair" because there is no doubt of it.
The same applies in science much of the time. When people say they do not believe in evolution, for example, they sound strange to my ears because it is not really a matter of dispute and there is no real uncertainty about it.
Believe in Santa Claus, believe that all humans are good at some level, believe that the War in Iraq is moral and just, believe that all Muslims are dangerous....these are things which are the subject of belief because there is clearly some doubt about whether they are true or not. Evolution, gravity and much else in science requires no belief - it works, it fits the facts and it has stood up to all attempts to disprove or falsify the theory....don't believe it, just accept it.....
Chris.
Personally I dont think the meaning of life and what happends when we die has annything in common ... or at least not much.
First of I dont think much happends when we die, we just stop excisting (yup, booring thery, but quite possible)
Secondly I dont think there´s a fixed meaning of life, nor for one individual or for everyone. I think the meaning of life is to make the best out of your time allive. If it´s trying to get world piece, get best honor in world of warcraft, or make a name within the streetracing community, that´s up to you. As long as you enjoy your time and dont regret what you have done and achieved it´s just great =)
It has nothing to do with religion.. at least not for me.
Regards
... or at least not much.
First of I dont think much happends when we die, we just stop excisting (yup, booring thery, but quite possible)
Secondly I dont think there´s a fixed meaning of life, nor for one individual or for everyone. I think the meaning of life is to make the best out of your time allive. If it´s trying to get world piece, get best honor in world of warcraft, or make a name within the streetracing community, that´s up to you. As long as you enjoy your time and dont regret what you have done and achieved it´s just great =)
It has nothing to do with religion.. at least not for me.
Regards
| Quote: |
| ... it works, it fits the facts and it has stood up to all attempts to disprove or falsify the theory....don't believe it, just accept it..... |
But to accept something just because that's the way it works is to accept that something blindly without knowing why you accept it. I could accept something that is completely wrong and believe with everything I know to be right. For example, I could put together a puzzle of a photograph of New York city wrong and have it come out in the end looking like a painting by Picaso or Dali and come to accept that is what it is supposed to look like. To accept something blindly is like putting together a puzzle wrong and believing it for yourself that it's right.
So, I think the meaning of life isn't known until we find out why we are here as individuals. Not until this monment we can learn we can do with our lives.
______________________________
Love God, love people, drink coffee
www.socialoutcast.co.nr
| Bikerman wrote: |
| Evolution, gravity and much else in science requires no belief - it works, it fits the facts and it has stood up to all attempts to disprove or falsify the theory....don't believe it, just accept it..... |
So based on this site, http://dictionary.cambridge.org/define.asp?key=23107&dict=CALD, could this be scientific dogma?
I know that word has more religious connotations, but the folks at Cambridge seem to have a more general definition for the word.
______________________________
Love God, love people, drink coffee.
www.socialoutcast.co.nr
[quote="socialoutcast"]
Could what be dogma ? Evolutionary theory ? No. I notice no lack of people willing to question and cast doubt on it, despite their normal lack of basis or knowledge for doing so.
Evolution is scientific theory, not dogma, it is really quite simple.
The Cambridge definitions are fine...that is a reasonable definition of Dogma, I agree, I just don't see how it is relevant to this discussion.
Chris.
| Bikerman wrote: |
| Evolution, gravity and much else in science requires no belief - it works, it fits the facts and it has stood up to all attempts to disprove or falsify the theory....don't believe it, just accept it..... |
| Quote: |
|
So based on this site, http://dictionary.cambridge.org/define.asp?key=23107&dict=CALD, could this be scientific dogma? I know that word has more religious connotations, but the folks at Cambridge seem to have a more general definition for the word. |
Could what be dogma ? Evolutionary theory ? No. I notice no lack of people willing to question and cast doubt on it, despite their normal lack of basis or knowledge for doing so.
Evolution is scientific theory, not dogma, it is really quite simple.
The Cambridge definitions are fine...that is a reasonable definition of Dogma, I agree, I just don't see how it is relevant to this discussion.
Chris.
| socialoutcast wrote: |
|
But to accept something just because that's the way it works is to accept that something blindly without knowing why you accept it. I could accept something that is completely wrong and believe with everything I know to be right. For example, I could put together a puzzle of a photograph of New York city wrong and have it come out in the end looking like a painting by Picaso or Dali and come to accept that is what it is supposed to look like. To accept something blindly is like putting together a puzzle wrong and believing it for yourself that it's right. |
This would be an example of what is called the straw man fallacy.
Has anyone suggested that people should accept evolution without understanding how it works ? Has anyone suggested blind faith ? I think not.
I cannot see what you are getting at with your painting comparison...it does not seem to be an analogous case....
| Quote: |
| So, I think the meaning of life isn't known until we find out why we are here as individuals. Not until this monment we can learn we can do with our lives. |
More straw man. Nobody suggested that the meaning of life IS known did they ?
Regards
Chris
Straw man, eh? But that is fun though
Is the meaning of life not a film by monty python. (Joke!!)
Meaning of life = be happy and do good things.
Meaning of life = be happy and do good things.
I think we are all here to be tested. Can we pass the test? Who is giving the test? We obviously won't survive the test. So, how will I get graded?
I will enjoy the test and that will be my life.
I will enjoy the test and that will be my life.
life..? we all want to live and we all hate and love life. we all sometimes ask why i'm nothing? why they didn't ask me if i want to live in this life or not? why they didn't give me the chance to tell how i want to live this life? anyway!! life is nothing and it's every thing.. it's strange but life is stupid or we can be the stupid. life is our dreams our happy "if there is happy" life i our injures is our fail our success hhh it's all what we need and all what we don't need
life is our dreams our happy "if there is happy" life i our injures is our fail our success hhh it's all what we need and all what we don't needwell, first off im a existentialist up and down.
the meaning of life is whatever you wish it to mean. I dont believe in the pre-determined fates of humans. When you are born the essence of your concious follows later, not before as most religious ideologies would lead you to believe. I think life doesn't have a fixed destiny therefore the meaning of life is indeed whatever you want it to mean. The choices are yours alone, and only you are responsible for the choices.
the meaning of life is whatever you wish it to mean. I dont believe in the pre-determined fates of humans. When you are born the essence of your concious follows later, not before as most religious ideologies would lead you to believe. I think life doesn't have a fixed destiny therefore the meaning of life is indeed whatever you want it to mean. The choices are yours alone, and only you are responsible for the choices.
| 01000101 wrote: |
| well, first off im a existentialist up and down.
the meaning of life is whatever you wish it to mean. I dont believe in the pre-determined fates of humans. When you are born the essence of your concious follows later, not before as most religious ideologies would lead you to believe. I think life doesn't have a fixed destiny therefore the meaning of life is indeed whatever you want it to mean. The choices are yours alone, and only you are responsible for the choices. |
Yeah! your right dude we have the same explanation, although life is that crucial you always have to decide what you want to be and what will you want to do in the rest of your life.
I think that the meaning of life is searching for the meaning of life , if all was clear and all was known than every thing was so simple .why would we wake up in the morning ? for another day ,no you dont know what the next day has for you .
you can choose to be happy to be sad ,to be angry or go skydiving . well that the meaning of life the search the adventure ,the ups and downs ,the feeling ,when it summs up ,you get LIFE ,and it's one of the best.
you can choose to be happy to be sad ,to be angry or go skydiving . well that the meaning of life the search the adventure ,the ups and downs ,the feeling ,when it summs up ,you get LIFE ,and it's one of the best.
life is what u make it. everymoment is life. your past and future is life. U should ignore idealism and what people try to brainwash you. No care for religion, but care for leading an exellent life.
Well we are born and then we die (we cant tell for sure what happens then if anything does at all) so the meaning is whats in beetween (obviously, i feel dumb pointing it out), I think the point is to make something, anything that expresses your being and what you were. For Example: Wrie poems to explain your view of the world and how you think. Show the universe what your about, yeah it has to be it. everything comes under that
I have no idea (wierd huh?) but i kind of hope we go to some kind of heaven or something.
The meaning is to contribute in evolution of own species. Try to enjoy your life as much as you can, put something from your life into our kind genetic structure, which will one day bring our species to the amount of power and possibilities to finish our world in a spectacular manner widely known. That end of our kind then would be great blockbuster everywhere and we would famous forever.
As an existentialist would say: Life is suffering. To in extent sure, that makes sense, but why does it have to sound so depressing.
Life's for the enjoyment of, well, living.
Life's for the enjoyment of, well, living.
It's totally 42.
Not only it's a funny thing, but it's true. For me, it just shows how useless is the search for the meaning of life. It's a waste of time. You might find an answer... but you will never be able to prove it.
"Every situation should have a little piece of absurdity in it."
Not only it's a funny thing, but it's true. For me, it just shows how useless is the search for the meaning of life. It's a waste of time. You might find an answer... but you will never be able to prove it.
"Every situation should have a little piece of absurdity in it."
I find it hard to believe that the end of our life ,as we know it, is the end. Or that its just black when die. Something must happen as stated by newton, you can neither create nor destroy energy.
| outamoney wrote: |
| I find it hard to believe that the end of our life ,as we know it, is the end. Or that its just black when die. Something must happen as stated by newton, you can neither create nor destroy energy. |
I think as it's almost surely the end of the existence for you, it makes no difference. Of course, you can be cheered up by the thought that after your body rots away and all those biological processes, you sorta get back into the cycle.
I might be wrong, well, there's always that chance.
I think the meaning of life is to find a place where you love yourself, are loved by others and are happy just to be alive.
I really have trouble with like God and science because I love both (or I try to) and they go against each other practically half the time. Anybody else have the same problem?
Now there's a thought I'd do anything to keep away from. Blech!
I really have trouble with like God and science because I love both (or I try to) and they go against each other practically half the time. Anybody else have the same problem?
| Quote: |
|
I think as it's almost surely the end of the existence for you, it makes no difference. Of course, you can be cheered up by the thought that after your body rots away and all those biological processes, you sorta get back into the cycle. I might be wrong, well, there's always that chance. |
Now there's a thought I'd do anything to keep away from. Blech!
I think people are confusing the meaning of life with finding meaning in life. The meaning of life is pretty easy to define, depending on your particular religious / non-religious leaning.
Where it becomes difficult is finding meaning IN life, specifically each of our own lives. We search our entire lives for that which fulfills us, often to find very late and frequently too late that we had found that meaning in our life very early on, but never recognized it.
Where it becomes difficult is finding meaning IN life, specifically each of our own lives. We search our entire lives for that which fulfills us, often to find very late and frequently too late that we had found that meaning in our life very early on, but never recognized it.
somebody said before that "meaning of life" has different meanings. And so it is.
If we are talking about the absolute meaning of one's life we are talking about one's place in the universe, his role/purpose if any. This is the religious point of view.
Meaning of life as an animal means to multiply (have children). This is the scientific point of view.
Another meaning of life is meaning in life, to feel that you are doing something with your life. This is the humanistic point of view.
There are also a social point of view, etc
If we are talking about the absolute meaning of one's life we are talking about one's place in the universe, his role/purpose if any. This is the religious point of view.
Meaning of life as an animal means to multiply (have children). This is the scientific point of view.
Another meaning of life is meaning in life, to feel that you are doing something with your life. This is the humanistic point of view.
There are also a social point of view, etc
what i think the meaning of life is doesn't fit with any of the poll answers however the closest one is our spirit living on. i belive that the meaning of life is to enjoy yourself and be happy. i mean if you're not happy in life then what the point of living. i mean honestly why put yourself through worse and worse days if you dont enjoy life at all? i'm not encouraging suicide. thats just my opinion of what the meaning of life is. When we die our spirit lives on but i dont think we can go anywhere on earth, maybe a special place for spirits, similar to heaven but then again our spirit might somehow enable us to be born again with no recollection of a previous life, maybe another chance at life to enjoy it as fully as possible.
i love you
thank you so i take it you agree with my views?
so i take it you agree with my views?The meaning of life ... happiness and fulfillment (and 42). Surely everyone wants to be happy. I believe that we are going towards heaven/hell but if we live a happy fulfilling then we should go to heaven - unless your idea of a happy life is going around toturing little animals or other sadistic acts of hate.
Meaning of life is love! Everybody knows that.
| Spe_eddy wrote: |
| What do you think the meaning of life actually is? I know from a religious point of view, there is heaven/hell/reincarnation etc., but what if you're not religious, is it to be happy? to make others happy, or just to continue the human race? |
love is an impulse in the brain- an addiction.
so you're saying the meaning of life is an addiction?
so you're saying the meaning of life is an addiction?
Let us face it!
Life is a contradiction!
We want to live and live and live for ever!
But we will certainly die!
We want to be rich and rich and richer!
But some day some one else will be richer than thou!
We want to be intelligent! better than any body else!
What we know is but a tip of the iceberg.
We want to love the most beautiful girl in the world...
<<<no comments>>>
You get what you don't want!
you lose what you need!
Life is a contradiction!
Life is a contradiction!
We want to live and live and live for ever!
But we will certainly die!
We want to be rich and rich and richer!
But some day some one else will be richer than thou!
We want to be intelligent! better than any body else!
What we know is but a tip of the iceberg.
We want to love the most beautiful girl in the world...
<<<no comments>>>
You get what you don't want!
you lose what you need!
Life is a contradiction!
The meaning of life is living. I can't see there's any other point at all...
An excellent question and a good topic, especially if it's treated seriously. Not everything in life should be treated seriously of course we also need to have fun, but a topic like this is for serious discussion, even if it's done in a light hearted tongue-in-cheek way.
It's interesting that there has been religion throughout human history. Mostly polytheism at first. It's also interesting that the Celts believed in reincarnation, but not in the same way as the Buddhists or Hindus. Almost all of the ancients believed in an afterlife. Since archeologists have discovered the bodies of many mummies, it's obvious that at death the body decays. What happens to our intelligence and our spirit though?
For me, the meaning of life is to first, conquer yourself, know who you are and be in control of yourself; then to leave build on what our predecessors left us and make the world a better place than we found it.
Enjoy your life without trashing it, build relationships, build companies or even countries, make friends, party, travel, educate yourself and others, dream dreams. That's the difference between living and just existing. I'm not talking about world peace here, that's impossible at this point in human history.
Generally, the point is to take what you've been given and improve upon it, having fun and enjoying yourself along the way, and giving other people benefit and pleasure in the process.
It's interesting that there has been religion throughout human history. Mostly polytheism at first. It's also interesting that the Celts believed in reincarnation, but not in the same way as the Buddhists or Hindus. Almost all of the ancients believed in an afterlife. Since archeologists have discovered the bodies of many mummies, it's obvious that at death the body decays. What happens to our intelligence and our spirit though?
For me, the meaning of life is to first, conquer yourself, know who you are and be in control of yourself; then to leave build on what our predecessors left us and make the world a better place than we found it.
Enjoy your life without trashing it, build relationships, build companies or even countries, make friends, party, travel, educate yourself and others, dream dreams. That's the difference between living and just existing. I'm not talking about world peace here, that's impossible at this point in human history.
Generally, the point is to take what you've been given and improve upon it, having fun and enjoying yourself along the way, and giving other people benefit and pleasure in the process.
Its simple.... to evolve... the one reason we can ask the question, because we need to,... Everything we do happens for a reason, everything that happens, happens for a reason, were here to evolve, to change, to do what we need to do...
| Simulator wrote: |
| Its simple.... to evolve... the one reason we can ask the question, because we need to,... Everything we do happens for a reason, everything that happens, happens for a reason, were here to evolve, to change, to do what we need to do... |
If everything we do and experience happens for a reason then there must be more to it than evolution. Evolution is NOT purposeful and does NOT have a particular goal or end-point. There is no 'purpose' behind evolution - nature is not trying to create a particular species or an ultimate being. Evolution is simply a process, like any other biological process, and not an end in itself.
If you want to find a 'reason' for life then evolution is not going to help.
| Bikerman wrote: |
| If everything we do and experience happens for a reason then there must be more to it than evolution. Evolution is NOT purposeful and does NOT have a particular goal or end-point. There is no 'purpose' behind evolution - nature is not trying to create a particular species or an ultimate being. Evolution is simply a process, like any other biological process, and not an end in itself.
If you want to find a 'reason' for life then evolution is not going to help. |
Well said. People are funny really - I've met many evolutionists who often contradict themselves and indicate some belief in a creator, and some Christians who believe in evolution (through creation).
nothing much happens we just end up going back into the ground and helping other organisms to live. With the meaning to life I reakon that you have to just live it and not think too much just make sure you have a full ligfe meaning happy and sad and angry and great times in you life you need the bad to appreciate the good.
| classical_c wrote: |
| nothing much happens we just end up going back into the ground and helping other organisms to live. With the meaning to life I reakon that you have to just live it and not think too much just make sure you have a full ligfe meaning happy and sad and angry and great times in you life you need the bad to appreciate the good. |
That's a pretty dim view and even from an atheistic viewpoint, I don't think it is good enough. One rule of science basically says that energy is neither created nor destroyed. While worms eating bodies is an example of that, I believe that's limited to the body. What about your mind/soul?
The ancient Greeks spoke about the soul, as did most of the ancient religions. The Greeks also predicted atoms long before atoms could be seen or 'proved' to exist - and today we have the atomic bomb. One day we may know more about the soul/spirit in humans. That energy is different to the body's energy. The body may decay, but the mind/soul energy surely goes elsewhere.
| Tiger wrote: | ||
That's a pretty dim view and even from an atheistic viewpoint, I don't think it is good enough. One rule of science basically says that energy is neither created nor destroyed. While worms eating bodies is an example of that, I believe that's limited to the body. What about your mind/soul? |
The mind is not a problem when considering conservation. Since the mind is a product of electro-chemical energy then there is no problem saying that the mind ceases to exist at death.
| Quote: |
| The ancient Greeks spoke about the soul, as did most of the ancient religions. The Greeks also predicted atoms long before atoms could be seen or 'proved' to exist - and today we have the atomic bomb. One day we may know more about the soul/spirit in humans. That energy is different to the body's energy. The body may decay, but the mind/soul energy surely goes elsewhere. |
The ancient Greeks believed that the soul was lost at death and entered the underworld where is lived on as a 'shade'. One should be careful about attributing too much credit to the atomist philosophy of early Greece. The philosophy is normally attributed to Democritus but was later rejected by both Plato and Aristotle and very little of the original philosophy survives.
| Bikerman wrote: | ||
The mind is not a problem when considering conservation. Since the mind is a product of electro-chemical energy then there is no problem saying that the mind ceases to exist at death. |
| Bikerman wrote: | ||
The ancient Greeks believed that the soul was lost at death and entered the underworld where is lived on as a 'shade'. |
| Bikerman wrote: |
| One should be careful about attributing too much credit to the atomist philosophy of early Greece. The philosophy is normally attributed to Democritus but was later rejected by both Plato and Aristotle and very little of the original philosophy survives. |
In Phaedo, or Phadrus (I forget which, the one where he drinks the hemlock) Scorates presents a perfect analogy to the reincarnation of the soul that Eastern religions espouse. The dead cross over the river Lethe, the river of forgettfulness, so that they do not remember their previous life when they return to Earth as children. Socrates also asserted, later echoed by Mark Twain, that while most people consider birth an awakening and death a going to sleep, Socrates was of the reverse opinion. To him death was an awakening while birth was in fact a form of going to sleep (the crossing of Lethe).
I see life as a beautiful process!
I mean to spawn a system that
is soon to be self reliant ... that
is based on learning and consequent
adaptation and ultimately survival
till death.
However ... in a broader scope,
life is just a glitch in space and time
from nowhere to nowhere
dust to dust
Compare it with algae that grow
in water. Weed that is somewhere
where it can persist. These are
just scaled down versions of the
mighty superset.
Purpose has got nothing to do
with life as it just a consequence
... a probabilistic eventuality,
a one in a billion scenario
So respect life ... cause it has
patiently stood the exploits of
the mightier adversaries ...
time and space
I mean to spawn a system that
is soon to be self reliant ... that
is based on learning and consequent
adaptation and ultimately survival
till death.
However ... in a broader scope,
life is just a glitch in space and time
from nowhere to nowhere
dust to dust
Compare it with algae that grow
in water. Weed that is somewhere
where it can persist. These are
just scaled down versions of the
mighty superset.
Purpose has got nothing to do
with life as it just a consequence
... a probabilistic eventuality,
a one in a billion scenario
So respect life ... cause it has
patiently stood the exploits of
the mightier adversaries ...
time and space
| Tiger wrote: | ||
Well said. People are funny really - I've met many evolutionists who often contradict themselves and indicate some belief in a creator, and some Christians who believe in evolution (through creation). |
True ... very true.
May be those who claim that
there is this creator that controls
the course of evolution, are
blinded because they are simply
fascinated, in due course of their
observation that they tend to forget
the rules of reality ... paving way
for far-fetched theories
Obviously you think that something with a 95% acceptance rate, like theism, is far-fetched, and something with only 5% acceptance rate, is less contentious.
That is indeed true. But that is my belief
but i did not mean any disrespect by
quoting certain beliefs as far-fetched.
Again it is my belief that i express
in that manner.
History tells us that a belief can be
coaxed into existence. You as well
me can suggest a lot of examples.
The numbers don't matter in such
circumstances, bear in mind in that
this goes for either cases, those
who are for and even for those who
are (not against but) in disagreement .
What is considered the fundamental truth
today will be nothing more than a
history lesson tomorrow. You ll have to
respect those lessons of yesterday!
but i did not mean any disrespect by
quoting certain beliefs as far-fetched.
Again it is my belief that i express
in that manner.
History tells us that a belief can be
coaxed into existence. You as well
me can suggest a lot of examples.
The numbers don't matter in such
circumstances, bear in mind in that
this goes for either cases, those
who are for and even for those who
are (not against but) in disagreement .
What is considered the fundamental truth
today will be nothing more than a
history lesson tomorrow. You ll have to
respect those lessons of yesterday!
HAPPY is the way to go...
The true meaning of life (only our human cycle of life ) is a continusly
fight to envolve to a super being. If that wasnt the true then our life and everything we do is just paranoia so if there is nothing before or after this life then we are a mistake of nature.
fight to envolve to a super being. If that wasnt the true then our life and everything we do is just paranoia so if there is nothing before or after this life then we are a mistake of nature.
I think that we are meant to grow and explore our spirituality and to work on our relationships with each other and God. I think that it is important to remember that we are supposed to love each other the way we love ourselves. I think that we are meant to be a help and support to each other. But I also think that the road we take is up to us. We have free will, and negative impulses that pull at us. We as humans tend to be judgemental, and to block out anyone that is different than us from our lives. During our lives, we have to confront those negative parts of us, and the logs in our own eyes, in order to grow in our relationships with God and with other people. I firmly believe that God can make something good come out of every negative experience we have if we are open to that possibility. I think that the question "What is the meaning of life", should be broken down to what is the meaning of today? Each day is a new opportunity to start over and work harder toward that inner peace we all crave, and toward the spiritual comfort and strength that we all need.
We all wish for the perfect world at times, but if the world were perfect, if our lives were perfect we would never grow in strength and understanding.
Life is a gift, each day we live is a gift. We are blessed.
We all wish for the perfect world at times, but if the world were perfect, if our lives were perfect we would never grow in strength and understanding.
Life is a gift, each day we live is a gift. We are blessed.
It seems that there is a lot of debate on whether there is purpose in life. Well, now that I have the obvious out the way, I continue.
I cannot buy into the idea that there is no meaning, and thee being nothing to to live for. I personnally enjoy my life and I enjoy having something to wake up in the morning to. Surely, it must be hard to accept that people wake up from their sleep to feed themselves, to work to feed themselves and only go back to bed and then wake up and do it again the next day like other animals on this planet.
If there is no meaning to life, then that make us no better than other creatures and criters. If we are to just evolve towards some other higher species then where we are now and not know what direction we are headed in, then it would be easy to believe there is no meaning exept to evolve.
If we have evolved through some serious of evolutionary accidents over some millions of years, then any purpose and meaning is life is just an accident.
I cannot buy into the idea that we are just accidents which evoled from something else. I find this idea a bit uneasy, pointless and worthless.
Consider the things in your life that matter most to you. Question. Are these things or people worth living for? I'm not trying to say that your all accidents, because I don't believe that. I believe that there is purpose in life beyond the tangable things. The things that are important in my life are the people in my life. There is a saying that says something like 'it's not what you know, but who you know.' Relationships matter for our personal growth, mentally and phycally.
Love God, love people, drink coffee.
www.socialoutcast.co.nr
I cannot buy into the idea that there is no meaning, and thee being nothing to to live for. I personnally enjoy my life and I enjoy having something to wake up in the morning to. Surely, it must be hard to accept that people wake up from their sleep to feed themselves, to work to feed themselves and only go back to bed and then wake up and do it again the next day like other animals on this planet.
If there is no meaning to life, then that make us no better than other creatures and criters. If we are to just evolve towards some other higher species then where we are now and not know what direction we are headed in, then it would be easy to believe there is no meaning exept to evolve.
If we have evolved through some serious of evolutionary accidents over some millions of years, then any purpose and meaning is life is just an accident.
I cannot buy into the idea that we are just accidents which evoled from something else. I find this idea a bit uneasy, pointless and worthless.
Consider the things in your life that matter most to you. Question. Are these things or people worth living for? I'm not trying to say that your all accidents, because I don't believe that. I believe that there is purpose in life beyond the tangable things. The things that are important in my life are the people in my life. There is a saying that says something like 'it's not what you know, but who you know.' Relationships matter for our personal growth, mentally and phycally.
Love God, love people, drink coffee.
www.socialoutcast.co.nr
I don't think there are enough poll options. Also I think that this can be answered in a single post thread, from a certain point of view.
I think the meaning of life is to reconstruct life and consciousness to be totally perfect. A goal.
Also I think we you die, you just are another person/alien or are reborn in another universe/same universe after it collapses then expands (evolution is different).
Basically, after you die, you reincarnate into something that can produce "consciousness".
Anyways consciousness doesn't really exist it is just really space time data distortions
I think the meaning of life is to reconstruct life and consciousness to be totally perfect. A goal.
Also I think we you die, you just are another person/alien or are reborn in another universe/same universe after it collapses then expands (evolution is different).
Basically, after you die, you reincarnate into something that can produce "consciousness".
Anyways consciousness doesn't really exist it is just really space time data distortions
Meaning of life? Yeah, apart from being 42, I think it is at best something for us to explore and enjoy tremendously (how I don't know) and at worst something that one has to endure while hoping that he would go somewhere else (likely to be a better place) after death.
With me, the meaning of life is almost the first one (Yay, I'm ejnoying every single bits of it right now).
With me, the meaning of life is almost the first one (Yay, I'm ejnoying every single bits of it right now).
I'll start off with what I think happens when we die. I'm actually not sure at all what happens, but I am almost positive that there is no Heaven/Hell. If God is the creator of all, which would make God our parent, God would not want to see any of us being eternally tortured. There is not a single parent out there that would want to see their child tortured. But, the way I see it, if there really is a Heaven/Hell. I would rather burn in Hell then be with someone who would let their children burn in eternal torture.
Now as for the meaning of life. From whatever angle I look at it, there is only one Earthly answer I can truly feel comfortable with. It is for us to achieve our high state of potential, and the only way to do so is to seek enlightenment through finding our true Primal nature and completely embracing it to it's fullest.
Now as for the meaning of life. From whatever angle I look at it, there is only one Earthly answer I can truly feel comfortable with. It is for us to achieve our high state of potential, and the only way to do so is to seek enlightenment through finding our true Primal nature and completely embracing it to it's fullest.
mike1reynolds, I think based on the way you use the term "geek" would place yourself in that category.
But a geek with heart! Too be all in your head is dry and stringy... Too be all in your heart is too be a puddle on the floor. Too be both a man of mind and heart is too be a God.
| mike1reynolds wrote: |
| But a geek with heart! Too be all in your head is dry and stringy... Too be all in your heart is too be a puddle on the floor. Too be both a man of mind and heart is too be a God. |
Tell me how I would transfer my mind into my heart.
Let us be frank! There is no meaning to this life. We live, we die! what else is there in it. The rest are only assumptions and imaginations. The reality is too hard to digest that is possibly the reason why all these inventions become a necessity.
Keep arguing until possibly the Judgment day arrives, if it does. May be the judgment day (flames that would consume hell and heaven!) is the end of the earth when the sun loses its heat. God only knows, if He is there that is! Poor man can only keep guessing. It is like the story of the ant that wanted to see the elephant!
Keep arguing until possibly the Judgment day arrives, if it does. May be the judgment day (flames that would consume hell and heaven!) is the end of the earth when the sun loses its heat. God only knows, if He is there that is! Poor man can only keep guessing. It is like the story of the ant that wanted to see the elephant!
I think that we are like anything animal. When we die, our body breaks down and we disappear of the earth
there should be another option "other" none of those poles apply to me, the nearest one would be the spirit one
Someone explain me why the option "I don't know" isn't there!!!!!!
Is an insult for agnostic people!
Is an insult for agnostic people!
There is no meaning of life
There is definitely meaning to life.
I don't know if this has been said already (and it most likely has), but I sincerely believe that the meaning of life is to be happy. So many people aren't truly happy, and it amazes me that this can happen in such a modern society as ours. Marriage, jobs, and other such things are designed to promote happiness, but so often they do not. Divorce rates are high now, and it's an interesting thing because we're getting less and less patient in our pursuit of happiness, but feeling more and more as if we absolutely deserve it.
I don't know if this has been said already (and it most likely has), but I sincerely believe that the meaning of life is to be happy. So many people aren't truly happy, and it amazes me that this can happen in such a modern society as ours. Marriage, jobs, and other such things are designed to promote happiness, but so often they do not. Divorce rates are high now, and it's an interesting thing because we're getting less and less patient in our pursuit of happiness, but feeling more and more as if we absolutely deserve it.
| Keran wrote: |
| I believe that we just live and then just die, who knows what happens next... |
The meaning of life can be to remember what happens next...
You wake in the morning and you have two choices.
To be happy or unhappy...........The choice you make from those dictates the meaning of your life!
It's that simple!
To be happy or unhappy...........The choice you make from those dictates the meaning of your life!
It's that simple!
Well of course the answer is 42. Thank you Douglas Adams.
But in my opinion i believe in reincarnation. That comes from being Buddhist. But to break it down into something all most everyone can understand.
the law of conservation of energy states that energy can not be created or destroyed, it can only be changed from one form to another
From Wiki
Basically our soul cant just disappear, assuming it is energy, and there for it has to go somewhere. Because there is no real proof of a soul we just have 2 go on faith. Believe what you want. But something happens in the end in my opinion.
Danke
But in my opinion i believe in reincarnation. That comes from being Buddhist. But to break it down into something all most everyone can understand.
the law of conservation of energy states that energy can not be created or destroyed, it can only be changed from one form to another
From Wiki
Basically our soul cant just disappear, assuming it is energy, and there for it has to go somewhere. Because there is no real proof of a soul we just have 2 go on faith. Believe what you want. But something happens in the end in my opinion.
Danke
yeah.. life is so simple...
just live your life to the fullest.. meaning.. enjoy your life ( not by going into illegal stuff of course..)
but enjoy it in the sense of making other people happy...
but don't forget that God will inquire about all our actions in this world once we die...
so enjoy life to the fullest! live and love..
jah blez!
just live your life to the fullest.. meaning.. enjoy your life ( not by going into illegal stuff of course..)
but enjoy it in the sense of making other people happy...
but don't forget that God will inquire about all our actions in this world once we die...
so enjoy life to the fullest! live and love..
jah blez!
The meaning of life is 42. haha Just trying to lighten up the mood. For me, the meaning of my life is to do all I can to further the kingdom of God.
Just trying to lighten up the mood. For me, the meaning of my life is to do all I can to further the kingdom of God.| skipz wrote: |
| The meaning of life is 42. haha Just trying to lighten up the mood. For me, the meaning of my life is to do all I can to further the kingdom of God. |
"42" pointless. I never did understand the point of that book.
Love God, love people, drink coffee.
| socialoutcast wrote: | ||
"42" pointless. I never did understand the point of that book. Love God, love people, drink coffee. |
Tell me one, who did! Even the author admitted that was a number that just came up in one of the interviews!
There are many viewpoints that can be taken on the question of life and universe. The clock work theory says that everything in the universe has a meaning. In a clock there can be hundreds of components. But every one of them is there because it is needed. There is no redundancy in a clock. And then there is a purpose to the clock. And that purpose is to show time. Much like that, the universe has a meaning and a purpose. But then who gets the meaning and the purpose. In a clock, the user of the clock gets the meaning and the purpose. What is the purpose of the clock for the spring or the gear wheel inside the clock? There is no purpose served for them. There is a purpose for the human being who is outside the clock.
Much like that, the purpose of the universe might not be obvious for the people who are part of the large clock called the universe. So the life of the 'spring' that is the human being has no meaning to the human being himself. But it has a meaning to some one who is standing outside and watching when ever he wants to see the 'time' or whatever it is that he has made this for! If the spring has to know what for it is ticking away, it better well work out and find the whole thing and find out how it will really look like from the 'outside'. We need to wait for all that to happen!
This is the scientific theory if you want to view it that way!
The meaning of life... everyone wants it to be such a difficult, enlightened, meaningful thing. By my experience, it's not. It's quite simple really, so simple that it's "deep"... although it's a bit contradictory, as it's less a meaning and more of what it is, if you get what I'm saying there. There is no "meaning"; the "meaning" of life is to be.
That's it. That's all there is to it. There is no purpose, there is not grand scheme, life simply is and that all there is to it. We live because we are.
Of course, I say this as something of an agnostic or athiest; neither term quite applies correctly. Inferring that there is a meaning to life is an acceptance of there being not just a god/deity, but accepting that this entity is directing, has a plan. As such, if one is actually athiest, one cannot believe that there is a meaning to life; as a meaning would directly lead to there being deity, which the athiest denies. That is, of course, only an issue if you have an issue with being an athiest and a hypocrite.
That's it. That's all there is to it. There is no purpose, there is not grand scheme, life simply is and that all there is to it. We live because we are.
Of course, I say this as something of an agnostic or athiest; neither term quite applies correctly. Inferring that there is a meaning to life is an acceptance of there being not just a god/deity, but accepting that this entity is directing, has a plan. As such, if one is actually athiest, one cannot believe that there is a meaning to life; as a meaning would directly lead to there being deity, which the athiest denies. That is, of course, only an issue if you have an issue with being an athiest and a hypocrite.
There is no one meaning of life or its better to say, it has no meaning..
Life is to Live... Lets live happily in our known way without harming other..
Life is to Live... Lets live happily in our known way without harming other..
The meaning of life. It's deep.
I once read a good piece about it. It said: We are not safe with a fatherly God, we are no creations of a higher being, we are mearly passing by in a cold and cruel universe.
And I think that describes it perfectly. No matter how much we'd like to think there is something higher and some deeper meaning we ought to accept that there is not. The idea of something like that comforts us as it would mean we are not alone. But fact is that nature is cruel, it's harsh. Only the fittest survive. So what use would there be for a meaning of life.
What if there was a meaning. Some sort of goal, and you reached that goal. Then what? Your life would be empty and meaningless again. And what if you don't reach that goal and die without completing the goal? Then your life was meaningless too. What remains is that life is meaningless. Just enjoy the time you have, live and enjoy your life. That's the best you can do.
I once read a good piece about it. It said: We are not safe with a fatherly God, we are no creations of a higher being, we are mearly passing by in a cold and cruel universe.
And I think that describes it perfectly. No matter how much we'd like to think there is something higher and some deeper meaning we ought to accept that there is not. The idea of something like that comforts us as it would mean we are not alone. But fact is that nature is cruel, it's harsh. Only the fittest survive. So what use would there be for a meaning of life.
What if there was a meaning. Some sort of goal, and you reached that goal. Then what? Your life would be empty and meaningless again. And what if you don't reach that goal and die without completing the goal? Then your life was meaningless too. What remains is that life is meaningless. Just enjoy the time you have, live and enjoy your life. That's the best you can do.
Life is what you make of it.
| medievalman26 wrote: |
| Life is what you make of it. |
Very true.
The meaning of life is trying to find Answers. Why? Because we all have Questions. Living our own Life, we all need find the Way of Truth. And it has nothing common with any religion. Religion is a some sort of rules set. You can live after this rules but if You want develop youself, you need to rise above good and evil. You need to be a God.
Personally I liked Monty Pythons Meaning Of Life, especially the part with the fat man eating all the food and exploding with vomit everywhere. But on a more serious note, I am not a believer of god, heaven and hell and all that, and have always been a realist, and take life as it comes and how I see it. My personal views on religeon, is that it is for peeps who cannot get on with their own life's and are looking for something else, in believing that there is something out there more than what they have now. And thats were peeps turn to religeon for a new goal. This I personally believe is mans weakness, of trying to get out of something, that he cannot no longer put up with.
To me life is what you make it, and I am perhaps lucky in a way that im happy in my life in going along with the flow of it. I keep myself busy with my hobbies that keep me happy. Im not in anyway rich and if anything totally the opposite in being poor, and have had many struggling times throughout my life along the way. But I do not let these things get me down, and I would rather be poor than rich, and see it as an achievment when I go out and buy something, to which I have worked and saved up for, rather than just have the money and go out and buy it.
Although im not religeious in anyway, I do however think that when we die, we could come back as something else, and that life is one big recycle of reincarnation. But that is personally something I think of, rather than really belive in. I have nothing against religeon in anyway for those who want it and live by it. And I would not try and diverse anybody from there belieifs, just the same way as I would not let anyone entice me into theirs either. So the best way is to get on with it, and enjoy life for as long as you've got it. Because time is very precious and is something we are all short of in the end.
But on a more serious note, I am not a believer of god, heaven and hell and all that, and have always been a realist, and take life as it comes and how I see it. My personal views on religeon, is that it is for peeps who cannot get on with their own life's and are looking for something else, in believing that there is something out there more than what they have now. And thats were peeps turn to religeon for a new goal. This I personally believe is mans weakness, of trying to get out of something, that he cannot no longer put up with.
To me life is what you make it, and I am perhaps lucky in a way that im happy in my life in going along with the flow of it. I keep myself busy with my hobbies that keep me happy. Im not in anyway rich and if anything totally the opposite in being poor, and have had many struggling times throughout my life along the way. But I do not let these things get me down, and I would rather be poor than rich, and see it as an achievment when I go out and buy something, to which I have worked and saved up for, rather than just have the money and go out and buy it.
Although im not religeious in anyway, I do however think that when we die, we could come back as something else, and that life is one big recycle of reincarnation. But that is personally something I think of, rather than really belive in. I have nothing against religeon in anyway for those who want it and live by it. And I would not try and diverse anybody from there belieifs, just the same way as I would not let anyone entice me into theirs either. So the best way is to get on with it, and enjoy life for as long as you've got it. Because time is very precious and is something we are all short of in the end.
By "The Meaning of life" most people understand the purpose of one man's life, life of an individual. That's why there are so many pessimistic comments as "there's no meaning to life!" or as I see in this thread the perceived opposite to this: "life's what you make of it!".
To me the meaning of life (if any) refers to the mystery of the biologic life. What's the origin of life? Why the only(?) purpose of biological life is reproduction? In this view the meaning of life for an individual is perpetuation/evolution of life by procreation and raising children.
As concerns what happens/expects us after death (=the end of the biological life) I am inclined to say: nothing... but I can't exclude with certainty some preservation/transformation of something intrinsic to us (let's call it spirit for simplicity). Anyway the question about what happens after our death is not a matter of curiosity, it's not about religion, it's not even about what to do with your life.... it's primarily about reason... at least for me.
To me the meaning of life (if any) refers to the mystery of the biologic life. What's the origin of life? Why the only(?) purpose of biological life is reproduction? In this view the meaning of life for an individual is perpetuation/evolution of life by procreation and raising children.
As concerns what happens/expects us after death (=the end of the biological life) I am inclined to say: nothing... but I can't exclude with certainty some preservation/transformation of something intrinsic to us (let's call it spirit for simplicity). Anyway the question about what happens after our death is not a matter of curiosity, it's not about religion, it's not even about what to do with your life.... it's primarily about reason... at least for me.
I'm almost falling into a nihilistic view on life.
All it seems is that life is about money. We are educated to get into college, and we go to college to get a job, a good-paying job so we can have ... you guessed it, money!
All life is is a struggle to get richer.
Of course, there are always exceptions to a rule.
All it seems is that life is about money. We are educated to get into college, and we go to college to get a job, a good-paying job so we can have ... you guessed it, money!
All life is is a struggle to get richer.
Of course, there are always exceptions to a rule.
| Soulfire wrote: |
| I'm almost falling into a nihilistic view on life.
All it seems is that life is about money. We are educated to get into college, and we go to college to get a job, a good-paying job so we can have ... you guessed it, money! All life is is a struggle to get richer. Of course, there are always exceptions to a rule. |
There are plenty of exceptions - me for example. I'm educated, went to college (Uni), got several good paying jobs (teacher, lecturer, systems manager) and don't really give a hoot about money. At the moment I'm not working - decided to have a couple of years off and pursue things that interest me like recording music, working on my bike, walking the dogs etc. We are therefore 'poor' by our normal standards but we have enough to pay the bills.
Don't get me wrong - money is important - especially if you don't have enough to get by (I am lucky enough to have never been truly hungry), but the amount you need to get by is not so much as many think.
Some people do live their lives seeking more and more money (the super-rich do it to 'keep score', the middle classes do it to 'keep up') but a lot of us don't.
I think life does have a purpose: it is a kind of opportunity- we can become like animals if we work hard (in that direction)- or we can become better than human beings- kind of superior beings- the superioroty may consists in: knowing that we are much more than this body and the sense- that we are using these things in the same way as we computers- This realisation gives us a sense of worth beyond those of animals..
Yes, it seems to be an opportunity..
Yes, it seems to be an opportunity..
I did not completely read through this thread but i will submit my answer. God gave us our meaning in the Bible. To be fruitful and multiply and to go out into the nations and spread His word. Beyond that the meaning of life is many things. For Thomas Edison it was the light bulb. But for all who read and post we all have specific meanings that we have the opportunity to benefit either mankind or simply one person.
| DavidkChase wrote: |
| I did not completely read through this thread but i will submit my answer. God gave us our meaning in the Bible. To be fruitful and multiply and to go out into the nations and spread His word. Beyond that the meaning of life is many things. For Thomas Edison it was the light bulb. But for all who read and post we all have specific meanings that we have the opportunity to benefit either mankind or simply one person. |
Damn - I guess my life is a complete waste then since I haven't been fruitful and I haven't multiplied, and I certainly haven't gone into the nations and spread his word. There again, perhaps it is possible to find other purpose in life...just an idea...
I believe the purpose of this thread was to discuss the meaning of life and what it is to each of us. So what I posted has nothing to do with judging you or anyone else but yet it seems you have a chip on shoulder. Besides what I put that the Bible plainly states I also mentioned that you as a person may have a life-purpose meaning besides that. You may come up with the cure of cancer or you may simply help feed a starving child. One purpose I had was when I was 15 and me and my father helped a man who was caught under a flipped vehicle. If not for us he would of died. It is not entire purpose in this world but it was certainly one of them. So try not to be so defensive.
You can interpret the meaning of life as the pinnacle of existence, as in what you're supposed to do, the true path and no other path exists. Doesn't that seem depressing in many ways? You've reached the limit of what happiness in life is supposed to be. I guess since I'm Buddhist, until you either find the meaning of life or actually choose to accept, you'll continue to be reincarnated. Once you do so, you have nothing else to do upon the plane.
I think someone said it best in that there is a heaven on earth but we preoccupied with it being somewhere else, we never see it. The meaning of life to me is for each of us to find our little piece of heaven on earth.
I think someone said it best in that there is a heaven on earth but we preoccupied with it being somewhere else, we never see it. The meaning of life to me is for each of us to find our little piece of heaven on earth.
I have always believed that teh individual in you never dies..whether its reincarnated or whther it lives as a ghost is up to debate . but life is a continuos cycle..
I believe when we die that's it. Your time has passed end of story, I could be wrong in some way i hope so, but then i would live forever and that's not a happy foresight.
the meaning of life is to have live most of your dreams. to be happy. to be able to see that your life had a positive effect on the lives of other people.
To me life is a mystery, and while it is a mystery so much is to be discovered and learned, and so while I am learning, I am happy. I think it is when there is no more mystery and you cannot learn anything, that life has no more meaning in it.
There are different symbols created since the beginning of recorded history to understand consciousness and life. Each set of symbols is just that, a set of ideas that try to describe what is beyond symbols. My first symbols were enough to save me from this hell, but I strive to understand as many as I can so that I may speak to anyone who questions this life.
In the Bible, Adam fell into a deep sleep and never woke up. From him came woman, and from them came human kind. In Rabbinic Judaism, Adam Kadmon, the only child of God, is the soul which contains all souls, neither male nor female this is the divided consciousness to which we all belong. Adam and Eve ate from the tree of knowledge and that was the choice which brought us here (remember, this is a dream). We collectively chose to understand and we will remain here until we do. So the purpose of life can be said to be to learn the purpose of life. Jesus was the first to wake, and realize that He existed in everyone. The Head awoke, while the body still sleeps, until the whole body is awake, the Earth will serve as a classroom.
In Eastern philosophy, particularly Taoism, the beginning is described as "darkness within darkness, the gateway to all understanding." From this source came all symbols which rely on each other for definition. Good creates bad, light creates dark, pretty creates ugly. The point of life in Taoism is said to be undesire. That is, first we must desire, then see that anything we don't already have is not worth wanting. That we ARE, is more than enough. Words often fail to describe these things, and I don't want to write a book here, but if anyone has any questions or comments, don't hesitate to pm me! I am a passionate student-teacher, and would love to talk!
In the Bible, Adam fell into a deep sleep and never woke up. From him came woman, and from them came human kind. In Rabbinic Judaism, Adam Kadmon, the only child of God, is the soul which contains all souls, neither male nor female this is the divided consciousness to which we all belong. Adam and Eve ate from the tree of knowledge and that was the choice which brought us here (remember, this is a dream). We collectively chose to understand and we will remain here until we do. So the purpose of life can be said to be to learn the purpose of life. Jesus was the first to wake, and realize that He existed in everyone. The Head awoke, while the body still sleeps, until the whole body is awake, the Earth will serve as a classroom.
In Eastern philosophy, particularly Taoism, the beginning is described as "darkness within darkness, the gateway to all understanding." From this source came all symbols which rely on each other for definition. Good creates bad, light creates dark, pretty creates ugly. The point of life in Taoism is said to be undesire. That is, first we must desire, then see that anything we don't already have is not worth wanting. That we ARE, is more than enough. Words often fail to describe these things, and I don't want to write a book here, but if anyone has any questions or comments, don't hesitate to pm me! I am a passionate student-teacher, and would love to talk!
| stacygoode wrote: |
| In the Bible, Adam fell into a deep sleep and never woke up. |
| Quote: |
| From him came woman, and from them came human kind. In Rabbinic Judaism, Adam Kadmon, the only child of God, is the soul which contains all souls, neither male nor female this is the divided consciousness to which we all belong. |
| Quote: |
| Adam and Eve ate from the tree of knowledge and that was the choice which brought us here (remember, this is a dream). |
| Quote: |
| We collectively chose to understand and we will remain here until we do. So the purpose of life can be said to be to learn the purpose of life. Jesus was the first to wake, and realize that He existed in everyone. The Head awoke, while the body still sleeps, until the whole body is awake, the Earth will serve as a classroom. |
| Bikerman wrote: | ||||||||
|
Agreed. I was a little baffled too by the Adam story.
You know, I want to be able to say one way or another what everything is here for and what really is behind the existence of everything, but I will never be able to. I grew up practicing and being devoted to my religion, but as I got older I became more aware of the people and world around me. Not saying that I am necessarily aware of anything beyond me, but from where I stand, I have to say that I am no longer such a devoted Christian because of what I have experienced. I still occassionally go to church, practice certain teachings, and I still hold a certain set of morals and values that was given to me when I was younger. I, however, would not call myself a traditional Christian. I have congregated with people from around my city and grown with them for nineteen years, and I can't help but believe that a majority of them don't understand what's really existing in our world. Most of them believe out of fear; you know, 'if I believe in God, He'll let me into Heaven.' I don't think that that is the way it works. At all. We can't even be sure what God really is. A being, an idea, a clash of dimensions, universes, etc. etc. Some people tell me, 'you just need to have faith in God and in the Bible.' But, I am skeptical of the creation and translation of the Bible. I can't have faith in something I don't understand or know who has created it. Since it's manmade, even if it's a first hand account of something, it's hard to fully take in. I am open to believing, but I am not able to take it in it's original form and gather from it what I think it was meant to say. I can take generalizations and theories and thoughts that others have offered throughout the years, but that's really all I can do. I also want to say that I am equally interested and fully absorb everything that is science. I mean, afterall, science is explaining what that greater thing (God, if you will) has done. It can all only go so far, and it's that extra hidden step that leaves room for religion. Personally, I think there is a lot from several different religions that should be considered. I believe that energies, for example, are incredibly important. I think one's energy is parallel to their spirit, one in the same, and its here before we are and after we are. We're just a vehicle, kind of. So, where should the emphasis lie? On us as a human, or on us as a spiritual being? I could ramble for awhile, and it feels like I am. So, what I am trying to say is, is that religion is something beautiful and necessary, because we all wonder why everything is the way it is and what this all really means. But, the meaning of life is nothing needed to know and living life and persuing a positive spirit amongst everyone else in the world is what's really worth considering.
If you really need to find meaning of life, than you have to put some extra effort. It is not as easy to find. Do you think you will find meaning of life from Internet? You may find some help that could lead you in some direction. If you really really want to know the meaning of life and you put enough efforts you realize that, you can only get answer from religion. That is true that to be happy is best way to leave a life. But is it that easy to live such life? Aren’t you going to face some ups and downs in life? How are you going to stay happy. That is why you need religion, which provides you with fait on god and positive thoughts. Hinduism is such a great religion that teaches you how to leave great life. I hope this helps you answer you question. Good luck in your search!!
Difficult. It is bound to be different for different people and different for the same guy, at different stages of life. Finally, a lasting purpose, which many people discover is to find one's relationship with rest of the creation and its creator. Once this is understood, people go whole hog after it- either in creative field or philanthropy on contemplation in solitude.. I think it is important to find out what our destiny is- rather than do what the world offers us or what we think we are good at..
Life is a gift. Heaven is here and hell is too. It is just the matter of our perception. We don't know what will happen after death. May be we are just computer programs...huh. And the death is the end of program.
I wish we could reincarnate, but it seems SO impossible. "/
Actually reincarnation is very scientific and rational answer. You can find explanation from “Vedic culture” (Hinduism). Don’t we believe that energy doesn’t die or destroy? It just changes its form. Exactly same thing apply for life. When we die. Our physical body takes different from. For example when we are criminated our body merges in to soil and in air. Or even when we are buried it merges in to soil. But than there is other part of us that makes body moves. That is spirit that resides in us. What happens to that? As science says nothing die or destroy just changes its form. So this spirit starts another life. When baby is born, spirit that makes baby live, where does it come from. It is not something new that came on earth. It is spirit only that has taken another form.
| pmehta51 wrote: |
| Actually reincarnation is very scientific and rational answer. You can find explanation from “Vedic culture” (Hinduism). Don’t we believe that energy doesn’t die or destroy? It just changes its form. Exactly same thing apply for life. When we die. Our physical body takes different from. For example when we are criminated our body merges in to soil and in air. Or even when we are buried it merges in to soil. But than there is other part of us that makes body moves. That is spirit that resides in us. What happens to that? As science says nothing die or destroy just changes its form. So this spirit starts another life. When baby is born, spirit that makes baby live, where does it come from. It is not something new that came on earth. It is spirit only that has taken another form. |
And when there is reincarnation, than only law of karma can apply. We see lots of people have done bad deeds. And sometime they die with punishment. So are they lucky….? I don’t think so. God keeps track of everyone’s karma. Ant everyone has to pay for his or her karma, either it is good or bad.
Because of these beliefs most Hindus who truly believe in “Vedic theory”, they know God is keeping track of their karmas. Thus they are tend to be nicer person. They don’t run blindly behind money and heart other peoples. They are more focus on living life full of virtues. They are ready to scarify for others happiness. Or at least scarify for family. Thus idea of reincarnation increases our faith for God and for good deeds. Because our good deeds are not going to be worthless.
| WicCaesar wrote: |
| I wish we could reincarnate, but it seems SO impossible. "/ |
It is totally possible. It is totally scientific. Remember what science says. Energy dosn't destroy it changes it is forms. That is true for life too. Spirit that makes our body live dosn't die or destroy. It changes it's form and thus reincarnate. So your wish that we could reincarnate is granted.....just kidding. But if you wnat to know you can search "Vedic scripture".
Here is your tube linke providing some information and support that there is reincarnation.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_EWwzFwUOxA
LOL...you think this is credible?
You have a kid that likes planes and has nightmares. You have parents which take the kid to a quack doctor. The quack spouts some nonsense about reincarnation. The parents are taken in by the quack and 'remember' episodes that probably never happened.
Do me a favour...
Science does indeed tell us that energy is conserved. That has precisely nothing to do with reincarnation. Human life is 'fuelled' by food and oxygen which allows the creation of electro-chemical signals which operate, through the central nervous system. Stop the food and you stop the signals. Imagine a battery - you use it to power your transistor radio. The battery is 'fuelled' by electrochemical energy which gets used and the battery runs out of power. Are you suggesting that a used battery is somehow reincarnated as a brand new battery in another radio? Does that make any sense at all to you?
You have a kid that likes planes and has nightmares. You have parents which take the kid to a quack doctor. The quack spouts some nonsense about reincarnation. The parents are taken in by the quack and 'remember' episodes that probably never happened.
Do me a favour...
Science does indeed tell us that energy is conserved. That has precisely nothing to do with reincarnation. Human life is 'fuelled' by food and oxygen which allows the creation of electro-chemical signals which operate, through the central nervous system. Stop the food and you stop the signals. Imagine a battery - you use it to power your transistor radio. The battery is 'fuelled' by electrochemical energy which gets used and the battery runs out of power. Are you suggesting that a used battery is somehow reincarnated as a brand new battery in another radio? Does that make any sense at all to you?
| WicCaesar wrote: |
| I wish we could reincarnate, but it seems SO impossible. "/ |
Here is another video that gives explanation on reincarnation. It provides how scientific it is and rational it is. It is in two-part video. It says what Veda explains. It has quotes from "Bhagavad geeta".
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s6VEEgtpcGc&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F5HWch9yHdo&feature=related
LOL...this is what happens when one engages with a 'true believer'. Debunk one set of nonsense and they immediately post another.
I haven't got the time or inclination to go through a whole series of nonsense on this issue. There is NO scientific evidence for reincarnation and no matter how many videos from mystics and deluded people you post up it will remain the case.
If you want to convince me (or anyone else) then start by reading the sticky in the science forums. Then you will understand what is meant by science. Once you have done that then you will be able to tell us exactly what data supports reincarnation, how it is tested, and what the mechanism is. When you have done so then I will take it seriously and answer in more detail.
I haven't got the time or inclination to go through a whole series of nonsense on this issue. There is NO scientific evidence for reincarnation and no matter how many videos from mystics and deluded people you post up it will remain the case.
If you want to convince me (or anyone else) then start by reading the sticky in the science forums. Then you will understand what is meant by science. Once you have done that then you will be able to tell us exactly what data supports reincarnation, how it is tested, and what the mechanism is. When you have done so then I will take it seriously and answer in more detail.
I think that We are just going to die, nothing else; so I think that we should not be waiting to go to heaven, expecting anything, because you just die. It is Very simple but some people just can't accept that there is nothing ahead of death.
Even though i am Buddhist, I do not believe in reincarnation; I think the meaning of life is to try your strengths and try to make the world a better, more peaceful place for the generation of your children to live in.
I think we all live to have an opinion in the world, and to do whatever we think we were meant to do.
ShadowmasterX
Even though i am Buddhist, I do not believe in reincarnation; I think the meaning of life is to try your strengths and try to make the world a better, more peaceful place for the generation of your children to live in.
I think we all live to have an opinion in the world, and to do whatever we think we were meant to do.
ShadowmasterX
The Answer to Life, the Universe and Everything is 42.
lol
but seriously, God does exist and when we die, we either go to be with Him or are set apart from Him.
lol
but seriously, God does exist and when we die, we either go to be with Him or are set apart from Him.
In my opinion, it varies with people. You can't actually tell it's meaning until you have gone through the process of living it. You can't find it's meaning through other people. They may give insight but that's all there is. We often look for the meaning of life in things that surrounds us, when in reality it depends upon ourselves. Life is what we make it.
The meaning of life?
I don't know...it exisists?
I don't know...it exisists?
I just know the answer is 42.
Reincarnation is not too bad I think.
We go to heaven or hell according to our deeds and also take another birth, as a man, or as animals. If you have done some really good things you are born in a good family, and if you have done something bad, you might be born in a bad family or as lower animals. Thats what hindus believe to be true....
so option no. 1 and 2 are correct
so option no. 1 and 2 are correct
i wod lyk to share a quote with u guys
"wat a tangle web we weave when we aspire to percieve"
"wat a tangle web we weave when we aspire to percieve"
To be happpy and to make others happy. There is a girl scout saying that we should leave everywhere a little better than we left it...now this usually applies to camp-sites and that kind of thing, but I think it also applies to life. To have a sucessful life you must leave it better than it is
I think that when we die we all go to "heaven" then once you are there it is your perfect world. You can visit other peoples heavens and do whatever you want. You also have the choice to go back to our world as it is now and live there. Also when you are in heaven you can remember everything from all your lives. Also I think that the point of life is to ummmm whatever you decide it to be. I think everyone has a different reason to live.
I dont believe in any particular religion or say this is true anything is possible.
I dont believe in any particular religion or say this is true anything is possible.
| GiocoDigitale wrote: |
| The meaning of life?
I don't know...it exisists? |
This is a good question GiocoDigitale
Maybe the meaning is that there is no meaning? It does not exist. We've been making it up in our attempt to make life worthwhile, and/or to run away from our fears?I think that the meaning of life is to be happy and when you reach that goal than you share with your happines to all sentient beings without discrimination. This is perfect philosophy and religion 4 me.
But the question is how to make yourself happy?
One day you are happy the other you are depressed how can you help it, in this way function normal people, right? You can't be in high spirits all the time, but this is not true for higly realized meditators, jogis and advanced buddhist practicioners. I do buddhist meditations 4 over 10 years and still haven reached realization, that is recognition of ones' mind nature. That's the goal that brings ultimate happines, wisdom, compassion and fearlessness. The understanding who you really are liberates you from constant suffering you are put through all your life.
If I inspired someone I recomment learning about buddhism in general, and dzogchen and kagyu masters. Reading their life stories is inspiration and conviction that you are a buddha or "God" yourself but still haven't found that out yet. The difference between buddha and me is this that he meditated more, that's all. He meditated more and discovered his mind's nature. Recognition of this fact awakens you from deep sleep of ignorance, which is the direct cause of suffering.
But the question is how to make yourself happy?
One day you are happy the other you are depressed how can you help it, in this way function normal people, right? You can't be in high spirits all the time, but this is not true for higly realized meditators, jogis and advanced buddhist practicioners. I do buddhist meditations 4 over 10 years and still haven reached realization, that is recognition of ones' mind nature. That's the goal that brings ultimate happines, wisdom, compassion and fearlessness. The understanding who you really are liberates you from constant suffering you are put through all your life.
If I inspired someone I recomment learning about buddhism in general, and dzogchen and kagyu masters. Reading their life stories is inspiration and conviction that you are a buddha or "God" yourself but still haven't found that out yet. The difference between buddha and me is this that he meditated more, that's all. He meditated more and discovered his mind's nature. Recognition of this fact awakens you from deep sleep of ignorance, which is the direct cause of suffering.
The meaning of life is whatever God has planned for you, and when you die if you walk on gold in
Heaven, or burn in Hell.
Heaven, or burn in Hell.
Walking on gold is very problematic:
a) Gold is an excellent conductor. If you are in hell then this means that gold would either melt or be very uncomfortable to walk on. If you are in heaven then I suppose it depends on the ambient temperature - personally I would prefer a carpet.
b) Gold is very ductile and a bad choice as a pavement material. You would quickly find the surface worn away and after a few hordes of angels had passed, you would find deep grooves in the pavement. This might serve to keep everyone on the 'straight and narrow' but it would mean that everyone would end up going in the same direction. Whilst this might be desirable from a theological perspective, it would make life pretty boring. It would also quickly become a self-reinforcing phenomenon - the deeper the groove the more people would be forced to walk down it. This would quickly lead to an increase in the depth of the groove and might, in time, lead to heaven becoming worn-through (depending on the original depth of course)...
a) Gold is an excellent conductor. If you are in hell then this means that gold would either melt or be very uncomfortable to walk on. If you are in heaven then I suppose it depends on the ambient temperature - personally I would prefer a carpet.
b) Gold is very ductile and a bad choice as a pavement material. You would quickly find the surface worn away and after a few hordes of angels had passed, you would find deep grooves in the pavement. This might serve to keep everyone on the 'straight and narrow' but it would mean that everyone would end up going in the same direction. Whilst this might be desirable from a theological perspective, it would make life pretty boring. It would also quickly become a self-reinforcing phenomenon - the deeper the groove the more people would be forced to walk down it. This would quickly lead to an increase in the depth of the groove and might, in time, lead to heaven becoming worn-through (depending on the original depth of course)...
I think the question is fallacious. What is meaning?
Thats it, nothing else,our brain dies .... hopefully... cus otherwise, I'm going to Hell !! 
What the heck are all of you talking about!!???"The answer to life is 42." " Life is 42..." omfg what is 42!!???
| Kyohtee wrote: |
| What the heck are all of you talking about!!???"The answer to life is 42." " Life is 42..." omfg what is 42!!??? |
That is an allusion to the movie (I think there is also a book) titled The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy. I haven't watched the movie (or read the book), but from what I understand, the movie/book is supposed to reveal the "meaning of life." After building up the climax, it's revealed that the meaning of life is simply "42." That could be off (I wouldn't know, I haven't read/watched it and I do not feel like going and doing the research). This is based solely off of what I have heard/read people saying. It seems a bit silly to me, but it also seems a bit funny.
It is hard to find mining of life. To know why we have life we have to ask creator of life. The only person can answer the mining of life is one who created a life. That is of course a god. And I have heard that once you have realized a god or understood a god, you automatically get the answers for all your question. Not only you have all your answer you also get a happiness in life. And that is never ending happiness. So basically meaning of life is to find and realize the god and get everlasting happiness. When you search for happiness these way you also make other happy. So meaning of life is to be happy and make other happy.
The meaning of life changes for me every day. Right now for me the meaning of life is living it to the best of your ability, sometimes up and sometimes down. You only get one life (perhaps at a time), best keep it simple, uncluttered, uncomplicated and easy, however I sometimes get tripped up with complicated thinking.
| pmehta51 wrote: |
| It is hard to find mining of life. To know why we have life we have to ask creator of life. The only person can answer the mining of life is one who created a life. That is of course a god. And I have heard that once you have realized a god or understood a god, you automatically get the answers for all your question. Not only you have all your answer you also get a happiness in life. And that is never ending happiness. So basically meaning of life is to find and realize the god and get everlasting happiness. When you search for happiness these way you also make other happy. So meaning of life is to be happy and make other happy. |
Are you a Christian? If so, your Creator makes it very clear what your purpose of life is. You don't even have to meet him (although from a theological point-of-view, all Christians have met the Lord). Your purpose of life is clear. You are to go and make disciples of all nations. Sell your possessions and live for the Lord. Try being a missionary in some foreign country. Witness to everyone that you see (except me, please).
There isn't a meaning to life. Never has been never will be. We exist so lets make the most of it.
the meaning of life is to have fun, grow old and die
Enjoying it, making the most out of it, creating something, having kids, living it your own way.
I don't mean to sound negative just logical, but the primary function of a human being is to consume and breed. Much like a parasite. We consume and consume because nothing can completely feed our hunger. Most humans value survival at all costs and will continue to breed and consume until there is nothing left to consume but each other. This is of course thinking very long term and it may never come to that as the human race might not last until the dying days of the planet.
I guess another answer might be you live to reach the end goal much like if you had an errand or task, the purpose would be to reach a measurable end goal. For the case of life your measurable end goal is death, as such everything you do in life is irrelevant because you will inevitably reach your end goal. There is no escaping inevitability.
In any case if you are searching for an emotional or spiritual purpose rather than logical then I believe the answers are internal and you will most likely find them before you meet your end.
I guess another answer might be you live to reach the end goal much like if you had an errand or task, the purpose would be to reach a measurable end goal. For the case of life your measurable end goal is death, as such everything you do in life is irrelevant because you will inevitably reach your end goal. There is no escaping inevitability.
In any case if you are searching for an emotional or spiritual purpose rather than logical then I believe the answers are internal and you will most likely find them before you meet your end.
that, you can tell only after you have lived yours. Every life has a different meaning, a different purpose...
for me life is precious..just imagine like a vertical line which each line represent a year span...the end is your destination..i think life is living each day to the fullest and making it count..grabbing @every opportunities whenever you can...life is NOT perfect NOR it would be like a bed of roses...no doubt it will be a bumpy ride leaving you bruised all over..but it is just worth it and without living to the FULLEST it will be like L.I.F.E-F=LIE! we live in a pretense..pretending that life is good when we are actually not enjoying every second of it..we will be filled with regrets at the later stage of life when we look back at many missing opportunities..sigh can't emphasize enough..life is indeed beautiful, irreplaceable..we can't rewind but only move forward..the end point is where we climb a steep hill, feeling tired, at times feeling like want to give up and throw things off..but in the end after the climb..all is worth it when we are at the top..looking over and savoring a glorious sight =)
I believe the meaning of life is just to live it to the fullest, forming my own destiny.
That was a great meaning Lucy!
Once upon a time I remembered that my message was to tell that; Nothing is what you believe it is. With the subline of having fun to alter every basic understanding...
Today - well it is kind of the same BUT the subline is not the same. My theme of my subline is "Don't U remember?"
So in a was a part of my meaning is to tell people to try to remember - And even if U don't remember: Lucy has a great meaning - try that!
Once upon a time I remembered that my message was to tell that; Nothing is what you believe it is. With the subline of having fun to alter every basic understanding...
Today - well it is kind of the same BUT the subline is not the same. My theme of my subline is "Don't U remember?"
So in a was a part of my meaning is to tell people to try to remember - And even if U don't remember: Lucy has a great meaning - try that!
| Afaceinthematrix wrote: | ||
That is an allusion to the movie (I think there is also a book) titled The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy. I haven't watched the movie (or read the book), but from what I understand, the movie/book is supposed to reveal the "meaning of life." After building up the climax, it's revealed that the meaning of life is simply "42." That could be off (I wouldn't know, I haven't read/watched it and I do not feel like going and doing the research). This is based solely off of what I have heard/read people saying. It seems a bit silly to me, but it also seems a bit funny. |
I got really curious and googled the deal about the number 42...
| UWW Max @ Yahoo Answers wrote: |
| Everyone is searching for an answer, by the time they figure it out ("42"), they don't remember the question. As Wiki suggests " The Ultimate Question itself is unknown - suggesting on an allegorical level that it is more important to ask the right questions than to seek definite answers."
|
more.
| HoboPelican wrote: | ||
Meaning of life, eh....one of my favorite quote from the 70s...
Seriously, the meaning of life, for me, is to get through it hurting as few as possible, helping where I can and enjoying it as much as I can after that. |
sounds about right.
hum........
who is mr. natural?
Well, if you consider the Bible, man was not always a victim of death. God initially created man as an immortal being in his own image. Man was given Earth as a gift by God. His life on Earth was meant to be heaven in itself. He was pure as he bore no negative traits like envy, malice, etc. However, he was curious and his curiosity made him eat the apple from the forbidden tree. God had contained all the negative traits in the apple tree as he could not destroy it and so on eating the apple, these traits passed onto him. As a result a curse was laid on mankind and they became mortal. Thereon, only those men whose hearts were pure possesed the ability to go to heaven after death. Those whose hearts were corrupted had to pay the price for their sins in hell. Our lives on Earth are no longer the blissful lives of our ancestors before the fall of mankind. We must sweat and toil and work for the betterment of our fellow men so that we may finally enjoy true bliss in heaven, and bliss is a pleasure that never cloys; it is indefinite as bliss is a characteristic of the soul itself. We cannot turn a blind eye to the great wrong in our world. If we can see our fellow men suffer and not be moved by it, then this world is beyond redemption and I want no part of it.
- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow,
A Psalm of Life
| Quote: |
|
"Tell me not, in mournful numbers, Life is but an empty dream! For the soul is dead that slumbers, And things are not what they seem. Life is real! Life is earnest! And the grave is not its goal; Dust thou art, to dust returnest, Was not spoken of the soul. Not enjoyment, and not sorrow, Is our destined end or way; But to act, that each to-morrow Find us farther than to-day. Art is long, and Time is fleeting, And our hearts, though stout and brave, Still, like muffled drums, are beating Funeral marches to the grave. In the world's broad field of battle, In the bivouac of Life, Be not like dumb, driven cattle! Be a hero in the strife! Trust no Future, howe'er pleasant! Let the dead Past bury its dead! Act,--act in the living Present! Heart within, and God o'erhead! Lives of great men all remind us We can make our lives sublime, And, departing, leave behind us Footprints on the sands of time; Footprints, that perhaps another, Sailing o'er life's solemn main, A forlorn and shipwrecked brother, Seeing, shall take heart again. Let us, then, be up and doing, With a heart for any fate; Still achieving, still pursuing, Learn to labor and to wait." |
- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow,
A Psalm of Life
| Gael_Knightley wrote: |
| We Thereon, only those men whose hearts were pure possesed the ability to go to heaven after death. Those whose hearts were corrupted had to pay the price for their sins in hell. Our lives on Earth are no longer the blissful lives of our ancestors before the fall of mankind. We must sweat and toil and work for the betterment of our fellow men so that we may finally enjoy true bliss in heaven, and bliss is a pleasure that never cloys; it is indefinite as bliss is a characteristic of the soul itself. We cannot turn a blind eye to the great wrong in our world. If we can see our fellow men suffer and not be moved by it, then this world is beyond redemption and I want no part of it.
|
People can be exposed to corruption and yet not be corrupted by it. Such people are moved by corruption and want to do something to eliminate corruption. Their intentions are to make the world a better place to live in, for themselves and others. So their hearts are pure. They are not malicious, greedy, arrogant, selfish, egocentric, etc., but being simple, gentle and humble people as they are, they find joy in helping other people. This joy does not cloy, it elates the spirit and lasts forever. The wrongs in our world are poverty, infanticide, violence, killing, etc. The "great wrong in our world" is the negative traits of human beings which in turn is the root cause of all other wrongs and therefore we must eliminate that first.
What is 42? Life is about circle,
you can't just be happy, you have to feel every other emtions to
what goes round comes round
I understood life, although at this point I can't seem to type it into words
maybe next time
and another thing, we're not meant to understand it
because if everything becomes clear, then life is over and there is nothing left
life has to have uncertainity, sometime it preditable, other time it not
it has the dark side and the bright,
yinyang is life and the universe
you can't just be happy, you have to feel every other emtions to
what goes round comes round
I understood life, although at this point I can't seem to type it into words
maybe next time
and another thing, we're not meant to understand it
because if everything becomes clear, then life is over and there is nothing left
life has to have uncertainity, sometime it preditable, other time it not
it has the dark side and the bright,
yinyang is life and the universe
Life i believe is meant to be lived and fulfil our dreams and God's dreams as well. to build up his kingdom on earth and to call to him his own. we are meant to do more in life.
Man was given charge over the world and all nature...more a custodial ideal verses one of rule.
Mans job is to care for creation and to elevate humanity through this service to G-d.
Tikkun Olam ( repairing the world) is a major tenet of Judaism. Modern man seems to have a self serving concept of purpose. It seems to me that we are the ones in service, not the ones to be served.
Through this purpose we are directed towards connection with our Creator. This connection is more a return to the original relationship that was damaged in Gan Eden (garden of eden) ...reparation of the world and reparation of the connection we were intended to have with G-d.
Mans job is to care for creation and to elevate humanity through this service to G-d.
Tikkun Olam ( repairing the world) is a major tenet of Judaism. Modern man seems to have a self serving concept of purpose. It seems to me that we are the ones in service, not the ones to be served.
Through this purpose we are directed towards connection with our Creator. This connection is more a return to the original relationship that was damaged in Gan Eden (garden of eden) ...reparation of the world and reparation of the connection we were intended to have with G-d.
As I'm an Atheist, I chose answer 3 "Nothing".
But somehow, I really the option to tick 42
But somehow, I really the option to tick 42
You can not find the meaning of life. You have to create it.
| catscratches wrote: |
| You can not find the meaning of life. You have to create it. |
and then destroy it
Brain dies. We are all biological machines, we do not live on when we die of an accident/ageing. I don't believe there is some thing called a spirit or something. When we die its all over, so I make the best of every day and do what I wanna do.
We have different opinions but to me the meaning of life is...
And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul,-Deut 10:12
Man was created to serve the Lord God of Israel.
At present, people can't accept this kind of law.
And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul,-Deut 10:12
Man was created to serve the Lord God of Israel.
At present, people can't accept this kind of law.
| rosgar wrote: |
| We have different opinions but to me the meaning of life is...
And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul,-Deut 10:12 Man was created to serve the Lord God of Israel. At present, people can't accept this kind of law. |
Are you surprised.
Related topics
 |