I teach my children that there is no such thing as ghost, demons and angels. What harm am I doing?

Question

And just in case you may have missed it, I positivly teach them that ghost, demons and angels DO NOT EXIST.
What I want to know from spiritualist or christians etc is Do you believe teaching that is harmfull? And what is the harm you believe this will bring.
thankyou

Dont get confused either. I teach them this if the subject ever comes up, I dont sit them down every night of the week and drum it into their heads.

I guess another way of asking the question is "What possible harm can come from NOT believing in such things?"
Now I know some one will just ask me the same question back and you will just be ignored.
thankyou

I dont know how some of you can confuse teaching my children these things dont exist with teaching them that there is no wonder,mystery and awe in the world.

Sorry, I should have mentioned. I show the kids that many things are largely due to active imaginations. And my kids have never gone through any ghost visitations etc. I think this is largely because I am correct. So what is the harm in disbeliving that demons may come and visit them etc?

@ Today T
Howdy partner
The picture I have is actaully the front cover of a video "The God Who Wasnt There". Its an ok vid, though I wouldnt have ever been convinced by anything within it whilst I was a christian. Secondly, I seriously doubt that if Jesus existed, that this is his picture, and no doubt you will agree. Its simply some art from the past meant to be an artist impression of Jesus. Im sure most christians wouldnt take offense. No doubt a person can take offense with almost any picture. I think muslims dont like pictures of any creature at all. So I feel quite comfortable to just simply be me and choose whatever I like for a simple avatar. If anyone was to get offended at an avatar,well ... they just show their own insecurities somewhat. I have been known to change it in some online dialogues when speaking to people directly on Yahoo messenger, out of respect. But then I change it right back to what I want. Afterall, its 'mine'

When it comes to the NON existence of such things, I only have my own personal analysis of such things. I have experienced things in my life. eg when I was 4 I saw a shark in my room. I dont suppose it was one. I am quite certain the explantion that it is more than likely something to do with the imagaination is more plausable than there really was a spiritual shark in my room. And to this day it hasnt come back. And there have been other experiences in my life, usually when young. All with much more natural origins no doubt. And I would have no problems telling my children the truth of my expeeriences. (no doubt more detailed accounts much later in tehir life so as not to inadvertently feed their imaginations and scare them)

As a matter of fact, I teach my children quite often that I dont know everything. And I teach them that their are many many people who suppose that they know God, aliens, can transform into animals, are vampires, contact th dead. But in all my experiences not one shred of clear evidence has been shown for any of these things. so I just go straight to teaching them They do Not exist. Why bother with keeping thm open to that suggestion? really what possible Harm can come from teaching that they dont exist? I can only see benefit. You know what I mean?

@ Forget.me.not.
If that sequence of events happened, no doubt whatsoever it would have actually been a very real person in the room. If my child believes in demons and ghost etc, they may think its a ghost or demon instead of a real person. And after all, who does the most damage on earth people or ghosts? When do ghost kidnap and rape?
Anyway, I want to stick to my question on this one, and that is what is the possible harm that can come from simply not believing that they exist? The worst they could do, and I am speaking assuming they exist here, is this : If the dark shadowy man was a ghost (assuming they even exist for the sake of arguement), they simply will believe it was a person. period. They wont feel strange at all. Afterall, there is nothing harmfull in believing in the existence of persons now is there?

@ jared_the_guru
I knew someone would have to ask this. And I must say that in this question I am not going to address that much at all. I will say this though.I believe its harmfull to teach such things. And that is why I am asking the question to see what people have to say inregards to teaching them the opposite, and what is the 'unspeakable' crime I am commiting, lets say, is. How is it supposedly going to damage them etc? Regardless of what I believe, Truth is not subject to my opinion.

@ Leviathan
You quite correct. And I understood when asking this question that some may get teh impression that i dictate my entire life around teaching my children there are no ghosts and demons etc. Of course that is not the case. I teach them often by asking them questions. Of course as an adult I have every intention of leading them one way or another. And in this case it is to lead them towards a disbelief in such things. Which I might add is quite easy. They have no problem seeing the absurdities in such things, and that is not because we have hour long discussions with them making sure they are in agreement with us no matter what the cost. As they get older I would then be able to discuss things with more detail and let them know that I have no idea for the existence of these things, however I do know that common folklore on this subject is just plain ridiculous. Still, what is the harm that is done?

Another way I teach the kids they do not exists, is by simply not talking about them. And what do you know, they have no spiritual encounters at all. And we have a great relationship. Of course I feel compelled to address the issua at times, because I dont live on an island, there are LOADS of people that promote the views. So I have to address it directly at times.
But still, not talking about the so called demons,angels,ghosts and spirits, is the best way of teaching them that they dont exist.

*****************
Today T
I cant really stress enough that the avatar choice was purely out affection for the VIDEO. If Brian Flemming had a picture of a goat, then my avatar would have a goat in it. I actually never ever thought this face to be of Jesus, it truly never entered into my mind. In Australia here, we dont get into the images of a Jesus at all.
I actually only really noticed when someone mentioned it to me here (A muslim). I changed it for the dialog, but changed it right back because I am use to it. I dont care about anyone elses and so the thought of it being offensive never crossed my mind, untill a few people have mentioned it, including yourself.
If I wanted to be offensive to christians I would choose a 'Satan' image, I never would have thought it possible that christians would be offended at the sight of Jesus.
So as you can see, I was never of the opinion that such a thing would ever had been considered offensive. So therefore that was not my original motive.

Also, I actaully once believed in such things. I spent the time and effort to learn. I asked questions and sought information. I had experiences in my own life. After many years I have learnt that they are imaginiation,lies,or just wishfull thinking. You say I have given up on learning, when all I can see is that I continue to learn. The world is amazing, it would seem the bigger the lie the more believable it becomes.
As for keeping an open mind, I wonder if you are aware of the possibility that you are complety incorrect?
I would still want the believers answer to the question. What Harm will come from me teaching that they Do Not Exists?
I can only see more harm teaching such things. Do you teach that these things DO Exist? .
I actually dont care too much for the 'Keep an open mind' statement. It seems to be usually used by people with a closed mind and no evidence, that are not impressed with the fact that their mere claims are not a sufficient answer.
So what harm is done?

Answer 1

Greeting CJunk,
Do you remember moi! before I dig into your question, I like to ask you a question. Why do you have the picture of Jesus Christ, is it to mock him and the Christians, and if that is so, that doesn't speak much about your impartiality and or open mindedness of an atheist as such as yourself!

I know you like to come back and add to your question. Therefore, I too will come back and expand on my reply to you sir.

Greeting again until then. I have much to tell you, and answer your question. Hope you are ready for me. Peace to you and yours.

Are you sure they don't exist! do you have any proof! any at all. As an atheist you prefer to have a proof to believe in things, and the contrast must apply as well. You must have a proof they do not exist. do you have any! as a father, a good father, you want to teach them what you think is right, and It seems that is what you are doing. But, I like to add, what if you are wrong, and there is more to it that you don't know, would you elaborate for them, and expand on to your teaching to them! would you tell them that as much as you are wise and knowledgeable, there is always the possibilities that you don't know everything, and you might be wrong with some things, we all can be wrong about some things, we believe we are so wise of them. Don't shut the door of knowledge on them.

Thank you.

+++++++
Add,
First, I would like to thank you for replying to my question. If we are to understand each others. We must ask to learn, and that why I shall and will ask. It is best to ask, than draw my own conclusion and cause more misunderstanding. You don't believe in Jesus, and that why I wondered why would you post a picture that represented him. Whether or not it is a true image of him or not, it doesn't change the fact that is suppose to represent Him. You have ever right to post any aviator you wish, as I have the right to ask and wonder what motivates you to do so. I think it is best to ask why, so there will not be any misunderstanding, and clear the air. We all have some insecurities including you. I don't feel offended by the picture, it is only your choice, that doesn't offend. I got bothered by the things that I can change, you I can't change, nor will I ever attempt to do so. Be yourself, as I will always be myself. Thanks again.

The whole problem with this world is that fools and fanatics are always so certain of themselves, but wiser people so full of doubts. Don't be so certain of what you know, you may discover that you are wrong with many or some of them. Not that I am calling you a fool, fanatic, or anything else. Ever heard of some truth comes out of the unbelievable, or fiction! Or there is truth behind the fiction! be open to the impossible for it may be so possible that it may spin your head.
With those issues that we may not understand, it comes lot of imagination. Knowledge without imagination is absolute. Let their imagination grow, they may teach you a thing or two from their young imaginative minds. If we couldn't imagine we would have never walked on the moon, or even be tempted to know what lies beyond what the eye can see or reach.
What makes you so certain of what you believe must be the only truth and nothing but the truth, and all those who believe in it, must be all wrong. What is that something special in you that led you to believe that you are right, and all those who believe are wrong!
You say you saw a Shark in your room when you were four. There could be many things that can explain that. Was the Shark in a tank! or was the Shark a football player, or were you watching a TV program, or was it a toy, or... many many more possibilities. and on top of them all, is that you have or had the imagination that led you to believe you saw that certain shark. You are the only one who knows why you saw that shark. Another Or, would be is making up the story to make a point, in which I can turn it around and make you believe of that which you refuse to let your kids to think of the impossible.

You ask what wrong could come from that! well, lot os it. Don't tell them what to think of, teach them how to think, and they will have the proper tools to lead their life, and they in return will pass it on to their children and be great teachers and parents to their own kids. You know the theory teach them how to fish and they can feed themselves, rather give the fish and feed them for a day. When you give them the proper tools, that will ensure what they will do it, and they will not be scared of things they don't understand. We are humans, even if you don't believe in those demons, Ghosts, or spirits. We, or they will find something else to make them worry about them, or scares them. It is in our nature, that we must worry about something, or we will be restless.

The wisest mind has something yet to learn. From what you said, you seem you are done with learning, and you don't want nothing more. I could be wrong, but that is what I got from your post.
To receive wisdom, one must discover it for themselves after a journey of discovery, and no one, not even a great father such as yourself, can take for them or spare them the experience. Let them make their mistake, and with it they will grow. This applies to everything in life, including religion. If your parents didn't give that certain tools, you would still be a Christian not an atheist as you are right now. They give you the tool to think for yourself, and because of that you decided that their beliefs are wrong, and you changed. Let you kids have the opportunity to make their mistakes or rights on their own, and you from the side be there for them to guard and protect them.

I am not instructing you on how or what to teach your kids, far from it. Only you and your wife are the only people who should do that. I am only asking you to keep an open mind. The world is filled with the unexplained. Just try to think, What If! What if!

I respect you for whatever you believe, and hope you in return will give me the respect I deserve even if I don't agree with everything you believe in. I am a Christian, I believe in God, in Jesus Christ, and I believe life is full of things we don't understand, and that is why I am always open for the impossible. You and I are not so different. I hope you keep your mind open to what I believe in, and you want me to believe in what you believe. We are not different, only our direction differ. Not everything must come with proof. A proof you must see and touch. Do you get my points!

Respectfully, and thank you.

+++++++

Hello again CJunk,

You are a caring person, give your self some credit. If you didn't care! you wouldn't have responded to my post again. I respect you for that and thank you.

I was not offended by the picture, I just wondered the reason for you choice, nothing more. It is your avatar, and you have the right to pick what you think is right for you.

I too could be wrong, that is also possible. That is why I say anything is possible. As much as I like to believe I am an astute student, I don't know everything, and thus I try to keep an open mind. The more We ask, the more We will learn.
I don't know if what you mention are real, that is why I keep wondering and ask what if they are real! Of course I could be wrong.
As for keeping an open mind. No I am not wrong. If you weren't an open minded person, you will not be asking the questions you ask. You will be standing on the side, just watching and reading what goes around, without voicing your opinion. You are open minded, but respectfully, not about everything.
I have never said that you gave up on learning. You are learning as we speak. Everything we discuss, we are learning from each others about the other person point of view. The world Is amazing, and the more we learn the more complex it becomes to comprehend. Too many cooks in the kitchen, too many holier than thou who are seated up above all others, and want to put others down just merely for differences of opinion and or beliefs.
I didn't mean to offend you by "Keep an open mind" statement. I was just trying to make a point as to the possibilities that you might be wrong, and there is more to it than you, or I for that matter know. I don't have to have physical evidence that these things do exist.
I saw something in the middle of the night. A friendly young boy who looked at me, right at me and smiled. It was in the middle of the night, so I was confused, surprised, and didn't know what or who that person was. I don't know if that person was a ghost, angel, I don't think it was a demon, I don't know. That was 8 yrs ago, and I can still remember him, and how he was dressed and how he looked, and how he smiled at me.
My eldest brother saw our father standing by the School bus stop, waving good bye to him, and wearing his favorite long black coat. The problem with this is our dad just died two weeks before that. Does that means my brother saw the Ghost or the spirit of our father! I don't know, my brother doesn't know either, but it seems to be the case.
My mother saw our father one night when she was crying in her bedroom in despair. My father just died, and she was left with the responsibilities of taking care of six young children, I was the youngest of them all, age 3 1/2 years old. Was that the ghost or the spirit of our dad. I don't know. But I think you can get where am I going. We don't understand a lot of things, and those are some of them. If you know or have a definite proof what we saw, or to the contrary, I am open to your interpretation!

You ask what harm is done!
I think, I explained why it is not such a good idea as much as I am able. No disrespect you, let them prove it for themselves if it is true or false, let them go into that room of discovery on their own and find out by learning about it on their own. You be their guide, and they will have the proper tools to make you and your wife proud. It is not imperative that they will, nor will they ever encounter these beings, but at least they can learn about them. Never say never. If you do that you are limiting them, and their willingness to learn about the unknown. Not everything must be scientifically proven or it should fail. That is why it is called faith and belief. Respectfully, that is just my opinion, you asked and that is what I believe, you in the end will be the judge what is best and not wrong on how to teach and what to teach your children. Best of luck to you and them.

Do you want proof! would this site make you at least wonder and ask 'what if!' !!!
http://members.aol.com/bjw1106/marian7.h...
http://www.apparitions.org/zeitun.html...
I am NOT preaching anything to you, only want to point out something that has been documented with many eye witnesses.

Last and certainly not least. You are a very interesting person. I enjoyed our little discussion. Sorry, it seems to go on, and I have tried to limit it. There is much more I can say about this topic, but I must stop with that.
Thank you again.

Answer 2

The only problem I see is that there is no conclusive proof you are right. It is making you somewhat superstitious and inconsistent as a person who relies on science for your facts. I think you should admit to your children that you don't know but up until this point you have not seen one instead. Having personally cast demons out of people I can assure you they exist. You can see and feel them with your eyes and hands. Not being informed is not conclusive to me.
For children I do not recommend these topics are addressed other than a gloss over because the truth can do more damage sometimes if it generates fear. I tell my children not to worry about anything and if anybody bugs them daddy will take care of it. When they are teenagers I will certainly warn them about Ouija boards and such. They are very dangerous.

Answer 3

I searched a Christian website and I've included the link of a Christian stand point on demons. I'm sure if you poke around the site you can find more about angels, ghosts, etc.

The bible discusses all of these things in some fashion or another. Personally, I wouldn't necessarily tell your children they do not exist if you are instructing them using a bible. That would only give a mixed message to believe the bible but some parts have falsehoods. Personally, I recommend informing them on how to avoid bad things. Not sure how what your religious position is.

http://www.bible.com/bibleanswers_result.php?bible_ans_cat=Spiritual%20Warfare/Demons

Good luck & God bless

Answer 4

Well. That really just depends on what you believe yourself. I've always thought that you should raise children to believe that there are some things in this world that aren't easy to explain and during the course of someone's life, they're likely to encounter something beyond ordinary. In the event that something does happen in the course of your childs life, you'll want to make sure that they were aware of things in advance. Does that make sense???? For example, (this is untrue, i just made it up) Jonny and Sally are brother and sister and were raised to believe that there was no such thing as a ghost. One night, Jonny woke up from sleep to a dark shadow standing near his bed. He started to scream but nothing came out of his mouth. When he woke up in the morning, there were scratches all over his face, the only thing he remembers is the transparent dark shadow in his bedroom.

Now a child that's been raised to believe that this couldn't possibly be real will likely think that there's something wrong with him. The sister will think that he's done it to himself. There may be a completely plausable explination for this but if you're raised to believe that things like this simply don't exist, you're probably going to think that it's something seriously wrong with you and not anything else.

Answer 5

Ok you have the right and the free will to teach your kids what ever you please, but I begg to differ in this case there are such things as demons and there are such things as angels. Read your bible If you go back to when jesus expelled the demons from the man and the demons jumped into the the animal and threw themselves off of the mountain. I just say read your bible and ask for Gods understanding of his word. I understand you probably don't want your kids to grow up being afraid or scared of things but don't make them lack the knowledge of what's going on around them as well

Answer 6

How you raise you own children is none of my business. As a Christian I'd leave out the ghosts and demons to avoid scaring the kids (there are no such things as ghosts anyway, and demons can be either real or symbolic depending on what you believe.)

Personally, I'd leave the angels in. Kids like angels . . . angels are nice.

Answer 7

I thought you were trolling, but then I read some of the answers to your question. Are there seriously people out there who teach their kids to believe in ghosts, demons and angels?

Sometimes I feel like I've logged on to an alternative universe when I come on to this site.

Interesting, but kind of scary, too.

Makes me feel like sooner or later someone's going to fly an airliner into a skyscraper.

Answer 8

You are correct that their aren't ghosts. Depending on their ages, children need to know that the devil is real, and he's the cause of all the evil and sin in the world. It's his fault we are all suffering down here on earth, instead of laying around in the Garden Of Eden, living peacefully, with no jobs, wars, death or illness or sorrow. Put the blame where the blame belongs. Them knowing about the devil and that he's real, will prepare them to resist him. Also, everyone has a guardian angel and we have angels encamped all around us to help us. You can ask God to send His angels to protect you and help you. Why would you not want your kids to know there is help available in the form of angels? Of course they are your kids and you can do what you want. It is not harmful to teach kids these things.

Answer 9

I believe some people exalt angels more than Jesus, but angels and demons are real. I take it you do not believe in God or Jesus and the bible. Cause in God's word Jesus cast out demons. An Angel came to Mary.

Answer 10

What religion are you starting off as? If you are a Christian teaching your kid that angels and demons don't exist, that kid will be very confused when he/she reads the bible and sees that angels are mentioned in it.

If you are of another God-fearing religion (Islam or Judaism) the kid will still be confused for each of their holy books mention angels.

If you are athiest, it won't matter. Your kid will see your example of not believing in any diety and won't see this as out of the ordinary unless he/she decides to study and accept religon later on in life.

If you are of a non God-fearing religion (all others, basically) the belief in angels, ghost, and demons varies and does not need to be accepted.

Answer 11

Well it is probably no more harmful than telling them that those things do exist.
You are teaching them things that you possibly don't know to be true, the same goes for raising them in a religeon or getting them involved in church.
Why are you teaching them this? Is it for protection or are you simply a skeptic?