Is self-loathing a major component of religion?

Answer 1

Yup.

Answer 2

I see no reason that self-loathing has to be, or should be, a part of religion at all. I do think it plays a role in some religions, and the brand of Christianity which accepts predestination and original sin comes to mind.

But Judaism is, I think, a decent example of the opposite. There is no original sin in Judaism, and it teaches a balance that is probably healthy. There is a saying in Judaism that one should carry in his pocket a statement that says "I am but dust and to dust I shall return" and in the other pocket a statement which says "The world was created just for me." So on the one hand, it recognizes the greatness of man, and on the other, it stresses the humility.

I do not believe that self-loathing is a part of my own religion. In fact, I think it's the opposite.

Answer 3

I wouldn't exactly call it self-loathing, rather a diminished sense of pride in one's own accomplishments and capabilities. I think that it has the capacity to deny individuals the right to relish their own accomplishments, instead surrendering credit to some objective entity. I think a more accurate notion would be that a major component of religion is the subjugation of the self.

Answer 4

LOL! If it is, that's a sure sign that something's wrong!

I guess there is a component of self-awareness that is uncomfortable at times. But the whole idea behind self-examination is to see that we need help. Nobody has perfect parents, a perfect upbringing, or lives in a perfect world. We get hurt and sometimes broken. We learn ineffective ways of compensating. Knowing that is the first step in seeking healing.

And that is the goal. To heal and to learn to love ourselves not because we convince ourselves we're perfect, but just because God made us and He loves us. As we grow confident in His love, that love and confidence enables us to love and encourage others without fear.

Answer 5

Self-loathing is not allowed in my religion. Self-esteem building is a basic component of what people learn when they come into paganism :)

Answer 6

Yes! it helps, because only by ones understanding, fully understanding that is, of the insignificance of ones-self can one improve and focus on helping those less fortunate than ourselves. Only there is helping others by helping them, and there is helping others to help themselves! To be truly spiritual, one must give everything. few are up to that and most that are have ulterior motives. Realistically its not viable for 99.9999999% of the population. the only true way to progress is to STOP all together, though that's extremely controversial, true non-the-less. My whole life has benefited others, nothing to date can i recollect have i done for myself. Does that make me closer to God? Do i care? not really, my actions towards others irrespective of few displaying gratitude is my reward, why then should i feel closer to God for living in denial just because i do. Hell is a place on earth too and i have nothing to prove to others least God by my actions and i seek no reward. so why i ask now.... would Self-loathing be a part of religion? If it where not an act in defiance of Gods will to do so? A man can be judged by his actions, but God judges by his motive! I do both but seek none. Ed x

Answer 7

Hello sweet bettierage… :)

"I am not really sure what you mean by self-loathing"..

But I do not loathe anyone..I do try and put others needs before that of my own..

If I slip and fall into sin, I just go to the Lord in prayer..I do not dwell on it, for I believe that once we confess our sin, that God forgives us right then and there.. we should then go on and pray that we sin no more..


In Jesus Most Precious Name..
With Love..In Christ.. :)

Answer 8

particular, i imagine hurting others emotionally or bodily may be information of self-loathing. i have undemanding those who positioned others down for no sturdy reason, yet I suspected it replaced into because it takes a lot less attempt than self-progression. As colors reported, it may be too painful for them to settle for the real reason they do it at the same time as the uncomplicated way out is accountable and criticize others.

Answer 9

Kenosis and self-loathing are opposites. The website provides some clarification:

Answer 10

No, just the opposite is true for me. I know that I am loved unconditionally. Jesus died in my place. He counts the very hairs on my head.I am special and unique. Where is the self-loathing there?

Answer 11

"As I would not be a slave, so I would not be a master," Lincoln famously said.

The creeds of the Abrahamic religions are the creeds of slaves (the faithful masses) and masters (the leaders who live off the fear and credulity of the masses). Anyone with an ounce of self-respect should have no part of it.