May
Humane, not Harsh
Heathenism is not a rough tough bully boy religion. We are not divinely designed to kick ass at the slightest provocation. The ideal man in the old literature was an even-tempered fellow who thought before he acted. He was able to settle disputes, not cause them. However, when the time came for sterner action, he showed up prepared.
The ideal Heathen was not a booze-guzzling B movie Viking. He kept a clear head about him. This was the kind of man who gained the respect of his fellows.
Along with the ideal man went ideal behavior. Heathenism is a kind religion. Right at the start of one of its most important books, it shows the way to welcome a guest. The generosity is not just in providing things, but in assuring the visitor’s comfort.
A hard-hearted religion would make provision only for its strongest and most powerful adherents. Heathenism makes provision for all its people, whether strong or not. The book states clearly that all are of value, even if they are crippled, deaf, blind or otherwise afflicted. Heathenism is a religion where all of the people can find a place where they excel.
Heathenism is a humane way of life. In my opinion, it is the best way of life. The power of a people is in how it treats all of its elements. Our power is that we give all the same respect and dignity, whether they are mighty or not. Everyone counts. And that includes you.
I sometimes wonder whether extreme Social Darwinists with their bully-boy worship of the strong against the weak aren’t in fact very privileged individuals who’ve never experienced much harshness. It seems to me that people who have experienced difficult times know the importance of caring and hospitality. They know that good work is important most especially because of the good enjoyment it will bring, and people who struggle against the elements don’t tend to mess around when it comes to enjoyment. They enjoy well and good. It’s kind of like your last post about Jera, and sowing the seed so you can enjoy the feast.
May 14th, 2008 at 5:15 am