I want a Goddess, but I feel like I'd be betraying God

[RosieMoonflower]

If you're going to approach this in Gnostic way, there's nothing to worry about. As Rosie said, many Gnostics believe that the Holy Spirit is a Goddess. They embraced it as a personified wisdom, Sophia, understood variously and taken as the manifestation of divine insight. Gnostic didn't represent a single or universal set of beliefs, unlike other Christian sects. In fact, there were various philosophies, beliefs and spiritual views, some even contradicting one another. But there was a common thread that ran through these multiplicity of beliefs -- Gnostics sought knowledge and wisdom.

On the other hand, if you're going to approach this in Christian and Hebrew perspective, I'm afraid you're indeed betraying their God as it was said, "You shall have no other Gods before me." This specific commandment is meant to last FOREVER -- and if you still see yourself as a Christian, I believe in my humble opinion should pay attention to this as a respect to your God and your faith.

I think I finally see what you are saying Seraphin. Christianity is a religion. And, that religion says to not worship other gods. But, if you are not a part of that religion, you can still believe in Jesus, you just wouldn't identify as a Christian. Because anyone can choose their own path. Am I somewhere near what you mean or am I way off? I'm not trying to be confrontational, so I hope this doesn't come off that way. I'm just truly trying to understand your perspective of this particular idea. Thanks for all your great advice Seraphin!

[Seraphin]

Very well Rosie! *shakes your hand* Sorry if my first post confuses you. Obviously I didn't express it very well.

You are right! That's what I meant. You can still believe in Jesus even you're outside of Christianity. You may identify yourself as Gnostic or Syncretist (Vodou and Santeria), Christo-Pagan, etc or you may even form your own system of beliefs, which suits you to a tea.

Outside of Christianity, you may freely have a picture of Jesus Christ quite different from that handed down to us by the Church. Like for instance, instead of a demigod and a savior, he appears more like a sympathetic and wise teacher like a guide liberating humanity from ignorance of some spiritual truths.

Inside the Christian religion, however, you can't do this. The story of Jesus, His personality, His teachings and miracles aren't subject to question or debate. Anyone who disagrees with the story, doubts its authenticity or reality or even simply view Jesus from a different perspective is denounced as a heretic, if not a lunatic.

[RosieMoonflower]

Very well Rosie! *shakes your hand* Sorry if my first post confuses you. Obviously I didn't express it very well.

You are right! That's what I meant. You can still believe in Jesus even you're outside of Christianity. You may identify yourself as Gnostic or Syncretist (Voodoo and Santeria), Judeo-Pagan, etc or you may even form your own system of beliefs, which suits you to a tea.

Outside of Christianity, you may freely have a picture of Jesus Christ quite different from that handed down to us by the Church. Like for instance, instead of a demigod and a savior, he appears more like a sympathetic and wise teacher like a guide liberating humanity from ignorance of some spiritual truths.

Inside the Christian religion, however, you cannot do this. The story of Jesus, His personality, His teachings and miracles aren't subject to question or debate. Anyone who disagrees with the story, doubts its authenticity or reality or even simply view Jesus from a different perspective is denounced as a heretic, if not a lunatic.

I agree with you completely now Seraphin that I understand what you meant. I am someone who does believe In Jesus in a different capacity than what the church allows. I guess I just need a name to identify myself as. I've heard the the Christo-pagan before. But, I'm not sure that's the best use offer for myself personally. I know Jesus, but I don't worship him as a "savior". So I will have to look into that term more and see if it in see does apply to me. Thanks again Seraphin!

Rosie [GREEN HEART]

[SnowCat]

I can remember being terrified when I felt a calling to something beyond the Catholic Church and God. It didn't help that I was 12 and getting ready for the Sacrament of Confirmation. Mixed messages and puberty all at the same time. Obviously I was not struck down by the wrath of whoever, since I'm here posting, but I can't say that it was an easy path to follow.

Snow

[seawitch]

Vesca and Seraphin, those are very interesting stories, and they have helped. I homestly believe that other gods and goddesses exist, we just make a personal decision to have a relationship with whoever it is we feel connected to. They have actually helped me. I honestly felt bad for believing that other gods and goddesses, but your stories have inspired me to not feel bad about it. I know I can acknowledge other gods, but it doesn't mean I have to worship them.

Snowcat, I'm sorry that happened, but I'm glad that you were able to choose the path that was right for you. Yeah, it hasn't been easy, but I'm getting through it.

So I haven't meditated on it yet due to finals, but I think a goddess is reaching out to me. All I know is that she's blonde. I've been having dreams about being in awe of a blonde woman.

Again, thank you all for replying, and helping me out. I do appreciate all the advice and support