I have been trying to find the right (hopefully Christian) religion to follow, but so far have not been successful. An issue I have is that animals are a huge part of my life, and I have not found a religion that supports this integral part of who I am. None seem to place much importance on animal well-being, and all seem to believe that animals lack souls and an afterlife, a belief I simply do not agree with and do not want forced on me, as I have recently lost three pets. Another complication is that I work as a zookeeper, and because God's animals need care seven days a week, I will usually need to take care of them on Sunday, and will therefore be unable to attend church on the traditional day. I think I would also appreciate a religion that allows its members the freedom to pose questions and form their own beliefs, rather than blindly following what is told to them. Does anyone have any suggestions for a religion that could fit with my beliefs and lifestyle?
2007-07-04 09:47:19 · 23 answers · asked by Rain Dear 5 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
Hinduism is against killing and harming all animals.
2007-07-04 09:49:01 · answer #1 · answered by [brown♥eyed♥girl] 4 · 4⤊ 1⤋
I think you need to take another look at Christianity. There is nothing in the Christian religion that is against animals or that suggests animals do not have souls or an afterlife. Humans and all other living creatures are all God's creations. You would be free to have your own feelings towards animals and that would be respected.
Ever heard of a fellow named Noah.
2007-07-04 09:52:00 · answer #2 · answered by J D 5 · 3⤊ 0⤋
if you are wanting to form your own beliefs then you cannot be a christian.
there are religions that allow you to come and go and don't study the bible etc...
if you are looking for a bible based church alot have services on Saturday nights and Early Sundays 8:00 8:30 am
they also have services Wednesdays. if you want to go to church you will find a way.
the christian religion loves all creatures, but believing they come back after death the christian belief does not believe this, however the Jehovah's do, and they are a great religion I'm not one but have friends who are. it is a strict religion though and they have church services Saturdays and durning the week but no Christmas no birthdays and no holidays.
2007-07-04 09:59:38 · answer #3 · answered by jeanniep 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, Besides Hinduism there is also Buddhism. While raised as a Christian I too had issues with some passages regarding animals. Buddhism might be best for you; however, if you're more inclined for a Christian-type religion consider the Unitarians. They seem accepting of a variety of beliefs.
2007-07-04 10:27:11 · answer #4 · answered by goddesstin 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Pagans honor all nature, especially animals. We care for animals sometimes at our own risk. Animals have souls and are closer to spirit than any human. There are many pagan traditions to choose from. Try studying a few pagan religions and see how they feel and maybe try them on for a fit. These are custom made religions for individuals and are peaceful. Be sure to keep an open mind when searching for something this important to you. Everyone, including myself, has said they feel like they have come home when they embraced paganism. Good luck and blessed be.
2007-07-04 09:57:05 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 3⤊ 0⤋
Jainism and Native American traditions come immediately to mind, however I am a Metaphysician and a Spiritual Peacemaker and we also respect all life as we do all religions. I agree with you and can understand were you are coming from. Church is important for social development, but Spirituality is a personal thing and is developed by introspection and study. I like how you are not sacrificing your beliefs and finding a religion to match you! Many paths are available, be curious and explore. Start by searching Jainism, native american culture, Science of Mind or http://www.emissaryoflight.com/_.aspx?t_t=5
2007-07-04 10:01:39 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
To me it seems that you would need to start your own religion. You have your priorities all wrong. I am sure that the animals at the zoo would not come to any harm having a late breakfast. Of course you could also go in very early and take an hour or two off for service.
If animals were so important then Jesus would have made mention of them. He was so caring that he would not have wanted any harm to come to any creature with a soul.
Think about this, if these animals had souls then it would not have been given go ahead to eat animals that have souls because the Bible says "Thou shalt not kill".
Sooooooooo, it seems to me that you would apply this same love to taking care of fellow human beings that needs that you would be doing God's work. God needs that love placed where it belongs.
2007-07-05 02:57:47 · answer #7 · answered by morganjlandry 3 · 0⤊ 2⤋
All of the Abrahamic Religions tend to place humans in "dominion" of nature. However there ARE a number of Religions who DO place humanity in it's TRUE place in the universe, as CARETAKERS of the world around us. I'm a Wiccan and for the MOST part, Wiccans believe that ALL things have a right to exist on the Earth for their OWN sake. This not only includes animals but also plants, and even rocks and minerals. We DO understand that SOME things must die in order for us to survive and recieve nourishment however we tend to kill only what we need to eat or use in some other fashion and ALWAYS give respect and honor to those who we end up killing. Wiccans believe that we are a PART of nature and as such, even though we KILL to eat, when WE die, other things eat US. It is ALL a part of the cycle of Life in the Universe and is only natural.
Raji the Green Witch
2007-07-04 09:56:33 · answer #8 · answered by Raji the Green Witch 7 · 2⤊ 1⤋
Hindu, Buddist, Jain and "amritdhari" sect of Sikhism! Basically the indian Indigineous religions have a belief that if you are kind to animals you are kind to all life. There is a Hindu Bishnoi community in India that have laid down their lives at times to protect animals and forests!
2007-07-04 09:51:24 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋
Buddhism is the closest I can come up with. You might consider Quakers. I have a lot of respect for their respect for life.
BTW, I'm very sorry about the loss of your pets. I don't know what I'll do with myself when my dog dies. I have a connection with her like I have with no human. You have my sympathies. I hope you find comfort in working with the animals every day for your job.
2007-07-04 09:50:16 · answer #10 · answered by Laptop Jesus 3.9 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Jewish, sorry they seem pretty animal friendly Haha. I really dont think religion has anything to do how the person treats animals.
2007-07-04 09:50:02 · answer #11 · answered by I ? Colbert 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋