Faith, Power, and Responsibility E-Book

Lancar Ida-Bagus

• Herausgeber: Mijnbestseller.nl
• Kategorie: Geisteswissenschaft
• Sprache: Englisch

Seitenzahl: 255

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2024

Beschreibung

The non-religious Vishnuh Society offers a unique perspective on faith, power, and politics. It is critical of these concepts and offers an alternative view that differs from traditional religious and political structures. The Society emphasizes the importance of self-determination, individual freedom, and critical thinking. Faith: The Vishnuh Society views faith as the blind acceptance of religious dogmas that keep humanity backward and stupid. It promotes a spiritual practice based on cruelty, ruthlessness, injustice, war, and genocide, which encourages various forms of human rights violations. Power: In the context of the Vishnuh Society, power is viewed as something that must not be abused. Instead, power should be used responsibly to promote the well-being of all. The Society rejects authoritarian structures and emphasizes the importance of transparency, responsibility, and ethical action. Politics: Politically, the Vishnuh Society takes a stance of independence and critical thinking.

Leseprobe

Faith, Power, and Responsibility

Those who sow fear will not reap peace.

Authors: Vishnuh Society

© Adhipati: R.R. Purperhart

© Copyright: Vishnuh Society Copyright: R.R. Purperhart / Lancar Ida-Bagus © Bibliography, Photos, and Illustrations by Vishnuh Society

No part of this publication may be reproduced or made public by means of print, photocopy, microfilm, or any other method, without prior written permission from the copyright holders.

The Dutch and Javanese translations of the Lontar books of the Vishnuh Society are registered with the National Succession Office in Leeuwarden, the Netherlands, and have been deposited by Gurubesar (professor, heir, priest) of this Vishnuh Society, R.R. Purperhart.

© All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the written permission of the publisher.

Faith, Power, and Responsibility

Those who sow fear will not reap peace.

Lancar Ida-Bagus

Inhoud

The Gurubesar

Sharing does no harm.

My world

A Hard lesson

What is karma?

The poor people

Poverty is a Global Phenomenon

The Multifaceted Nature of Poverty

The Global Scope

The consequences of poverty

The Fight Against Poverty

A call to action

The Injustice of Guilt

A Matter of Systems and Structure

The Importance of Empathy and Solidarity

A Call for Empowerment and Justice

The Hidden barriers of Poverty

The Role of Privilege and Inequality

The Pursuit of Structural Change

A Call for Understanding, Empathy and Solidarity

A Society of Equal Opportunities

The Importance of Solidarity and Cooperation

The Roll of Money in Modern Society

Poverty and Basic Needs

Cooperation and Self-help in as Answer

A Call To Solidarity

The Power of Solidarity and Collective Action

Alternative Pathways to Wellbeing

A Vision of Hope and Empowerment

A Invitation to Cooperation

A safe Haven for All

Building a More Empathetic Society

Collective Responsibility for Change

A World Without Poverty

The Roll of Power and Privilege

The Appearance of Justification

A Plea for Human Dignity and Equality

A Call for Change

The Abuse of Religion and Ideology

Hypocrisy and Irony

The Abuse of Faith for Self-Interest

A Call to Consciousness and Change

Critical Thinking and en Resistance to Abuse

True Spirituality as a Source of Empowerment

Critical Thinking and Reinterpretation of Religious Stories

Inclusivity and Respect for Diversity

Collaboration for Positive Transformation

Dedication to Humanity and Solidarity

A Call for Resistance and Solidarity

The Power of Collective Action

A Future of Hope and Happiness

Politics and government

What is Vishnucratie?

An example of oppression.

What I know about the Chinese

South America

Not all leaders strive for equal rights for the people.

The history of Suriname in a nutshell:

The newcomers were looking for big profits.

Heaven and Hell

Not only in Suriname

The black reverend

Spiritual poverty, spiritual violence and selfishness are the enemies of world humanity.

Who is Jesus?

Judgment analogous to natural laws

… FINALLY…

The discovery of the century

Religion destroys more than you would like.

God is not merely love.

Quotes from the Talmud

The Most Holy Book of the Jews

The Gurubesar

As Gurubesar of the Vishnuh Society, I am accustomed to a different way of living and thinking. The responsibilities that come with this position are numerous and demanding, and I am acutely aware of the challenges I must overcome daily. Despite these difficulties, I am convinced that everything will eventually turn out well. This faith provides me with a certain level of comfort and assurance.

However, it is important to acknowledge that an internal conflict has arisen within me. This conflict stems from the discrepancy between my own feelings and the expectations tied to my role as Gurubesar. From a young age, I learned that a Gurubesar must be a beacon of support and strength for the community. My education and experience have prepared me to always be there for others, to guide them, and to support them in their spiritual and personal growth.

Yet, as the years go by, I increasingly realize that I, too, as a human being, have my own insecurities and moments of weakness. It is sometimes difficult to set aside these personal feelings and meet the expectations that the community has of me. This internal conflict forces me to constantly seek a balance between my own needs and those of the people who rely on me.

It is a continuous challenge to maintain my inner peace while trying to fulfill the role of a spiritual leader. This process of self-reflection has taught me that it is not only important to help others but also to give myself the space and time to grow and recover. Only by finding this balance can I be an authentic and effective leader for the Vishnuh Society.

I have also discovered that sharing my own experiences and struggles with the community can contribute to a deeper understanding and a stronger bond. By being open about my own human experiences, I can inspire others and show that it is okay to be vulnerable. This creates an environment where everyone, including myself, can grow and learn from one another.

In conclusion, the journey as Gurubesar is one of continuous self-discovery and adaptation. It is a path that requires courage, introspection, and a deep understanding of both one's own needs and those of the community. As I continue this journey, I remain committed to the values and ideals of the Vishnuh Society, knowing that true strength and leadership come from embracing both our strengths and our vulnerabilities.

It is also complicated. As Gurubesar of the Vishnuh Society, I find myself in a unique situation, in a place that my ancestors never knew. Even the Society in Suriname cannot fully empathize with what it is like for me here in the Netherlands. Upon my arrival in the Netherlands, I had to reinvent everything. The way I fulfilled my role as Gurubesar in Suriname could not be applied in the same way here. I faced the challenge of giving a new interpretation to my duties and responsibilities, despite all the setbacks and hardships I encountered.

The transition to a new country brought not only cultural and social challenges but also personal and spiritual trials. I had to learn to navigate through a society that differs in many ways from that in Suriname. The customs, expectations, and even the way of communicating are different, and it was up to me to find a way to adapt my role as a spiritual leader to this new context.

Despite the many obstacles I encountered, such as the language barrier, the loneliness of missing my familiar community, and financial uncertainty, I remained determined to continue my mission. I developed new ways to convey my message and support my community. This required a lot of creativity, patience, and perseverance. I learned new skills and found innovative methods to connect with people and inspire them.

Every day brought new challenges. Poverty and misery are real problems that my community and I face daily. These conditions test my resilience and my ability to continue supporting others, even when I am dealing with difficulties myself. Yet, I see these obstacles as a new challenge for me as Gurubesar. They force me to become stronger and more flexible and to find new ways to serve my community.

Through these experiences, I have learned that true leadership is not just about following traditional methods but also about adapting and innovating in the face of change. My ancestors taught me much, but my current circumstances require that I supplement their wisdom with new insights and approaches. This process of adaptation has deepened and enriched my understanding of my role.

I am grateful for the lessons I have learned and the growth I have undergone. Although the journey is difficult, I know that these challenges make me stronger and better prepared to lead my community. Every obstacle is an opportunity to learn and grow, and I am determined to continue this journey with courage and determination.

For my members, it might even be somewhat comforting that I now need help, allowing them to do something for me. It gives them the opportunity to show their gratitude and support, further strengthening our bond. However, I understand well what is happening inside me. Perhaps I need to separate the financial support from the moral support I provide by simply being myself. As a Gurubesar in Suriname, it was not about money.

Nowadays, however, money seems to play a much bigger role, and I am now a victim of this. Yet, I stand tall for the Society, and I am sure they look at me with pride. I am now the living example of how money, or the lack thereof, does not affect my essence, even as a Gurubesar.

In Suriname, I could fulfill my role without worrying about financial issues. The focus there was entirely on spiritual guidance and the community. Here in the Netherlands, the situation is different, and this requires an adjustment in my approach. Separating financial matters from my spiritual responsibilities is a necessary step to maintaining my inner balance.

This new reality has taught me that true strength and leadership are not dependent on material resources. Although the financial pressure is real and can sometimes be overwhelming, it does not define who I am or what I can offer my community. My value as Gurubesar is not diminished by economic challenges; on the contrary, it highlights the resilience and determination that are essential for true spiritual leadership.

The support I receive from my community, both materially and emotionally, is a testament to the mutual bond we share. It is a circular relationship of giving and receiving, where every act of support strengthens the community as a whole. It has also shown me that accepting help is not a sign of weakness but rather an acknowledgment of our human vulnerability and interconnectedness.

For my members, seeing my struggle and determination to persevere despite the difficulties can be a source of inspiration. It demonstrates that challenges, no matter how great, cannot break us as long as we remain true to ourselves and our values. I hope my example shows them that we are stronger together and that support, in any form, is essential for our collective well-being.

I remain committed to my role and the values of the Vishnuh Society. My experiences in the Netherlands have taught me that leadership is not only about leading in good times but also about navigating through difficulties with integrity and courage. I am proud of the growth I have undergone and the resilience I have shown. And I am grateful for the continued support and trust of my community, who continue to inspire me to move forward.

No one is defined by their poverty, and that is why I am now a shining example for many. A lesson that can be seen has so much more power than words ever can. I now lead literally by example. This experience shows that true resilience and spiritual strength are not determined by material circumstances but by inner values and the will to survive and thrive despite difficulties.

And as for inequality in relationships? It does not depend on money and help. Equality lies in being there for each other, being ready with advice and counsel when needed. And that, I can do better than anyone. My relationship with my members can never be unequal because nothing is measured. I give as much as possible of what money cannot buy. Who knows how precious that is? My dedication, time, and unconditional support are invaluable and form the core of my connection with the community.

I have a good heart and give what I can with the most loving intentions. My commitment and care for my community have always been genuine and sincere. I believe that true support and guidance come from a place of love and compassion, and that is something no amount of money can replace. This is the essence of my leadership and the strength of the Vishnuh Society.

Through my experiences and the challenges I have overcome, I am able to inspire others and show them that it is possible to grow and thrive, regardless of the circumstances. My life and my work are living proof of the power of human resilience and the unbreakable spirit of the community. This example, this living lesson, is more powerful than any speech or advice.

In these difficult times, it is my duty and privilege to show my members that we stand strong together, that true strength comes from within, and that our interconnectedness can help us weather any storm. I am proud to be a beacon of hope and a source of inspiration for my community.

My role as Gurubesar goes beyond spiritual leadership; it is an embodiment of the values of compassion, resilience, and unconditional love. These values, which I practice daily, are the foundations upon which the Vishnuh Society is built and remain the light that guides us all, regardless of the challenges we face.

Being a Gurubesar is challenging because people look up to you and forget that you are also just a human being.

Being a Gurubesar is a role that comes with prestige and respect. People look up to you for wisdom, guidance, and inspiration. They see you as a source of inexhaustible knowledge and an example of the highest human qualities. However, this esteem carries a weight that is often overlooked by those who look up to you.

The expectations placed on a Gurubesar are immense. There is an implicit assumption that you always have the answers, that you are morally impeccable, and that you never make mistakes. These unrealistic expectations can lead to an isolating experience. As a Gurubesar, you are often placed on a pedestal, causing the human side of your being to be forgotten. You have the same emotions, insecurities, and challenges as anyone else, but there is little room to show these vulnerabilities.

Additionally, the pressure to always be a role model can lead to a sense of loneliness. It is difficult to maintain authentic relationships when everyone around you sees you as more than human. Friends and followers hesitate to show you their own doubts and weaknesses, fearing that this will affect your perception of them. This reinforces the idea that you are unapproachable and strengthens the isolation.

The responsibility that comes with being a Gurubesar is enormous. Your decisions and words have a profound impact on the lives of others. This responsibility can feel overwhelming, especially when you realize that you can also make mistakes. The fear of failure can be paralyzing, as every misstep not only damages your reputation but also the trust and hope of those who look up to you.

Moreover, there is the constant balance between maintaining your own well-being and serving others. Like everyone else, the Gurubesar needs rest, personal growth, and self-care. But the role often requires you to put yourself second. This can lead to burnout and exhaustion, especially when the support you provide to others is not reciprocated.

It is essential to acknowledge that a Gurubesar is also a human being with their own needs, feelings, and limitations. Creating a culture where they can be themselves without the fear of being judged can help alleviate the burden of their role. Open communication and understanding can contribute to a healthier dynamic between the Gurubesar and their followers.

In essence, it is important to remember that admiration and respect for a Gurubesar should not mean that we ignore their humanity. By recognizing them as people with their own struggles and successes, we can create a more empathetic and supportive community.

I do not want to stand on a pedestal, but I am there nonetheless because only others can put me there. I cannot place myself on it.

It's a paradoxical situation in which I find myself. Despite my desire to be seen as an equal, others place me on a pedestal. This is not something I choose for myself; it's a projection of their admiration, expectations, and idealization. They see in me a source of inspiration, wisdom, and strength, automatically placing me in an elevated position.

Breaking this dynamic is challenging because it's beyond my control. It's the perceptions and actions of others that determine how I am seen. Even if I strive to remain humble and approachable, people continue to place me on that pedestal because of the role I play in their lives. This makes it difficult to have truly equal contact because the distance created by their idealization persists.

The feeling of powerlessness that comes with this is sometimes overwhelming. I want nothing more than to show myself as I truly am—with all my faults, insecurities, and vulnerabilities. But the pedestal position makes it difficult to fully reveal this human side because there's always a certain expectation and pressure to meet the idealized image.

Moreover, this position can lead to loneliness and isolation. When people put you on a pedestal, they often hesitate to share their own vulnerabilities and issues with you. They may think you won't fully understand them or that they'll disappoint you by not meeting your perceived standard. This reinforces the sense of distance and makes it harder to form genuine, mutual connections.

It's important to try to change this dynamic by openly communicating about my own experiences and difficulties. By showing that I'm also just a human being, I can try to nuance the image others have of me. This requires courage and perseverance, but it's essential to present a fairer and more authentic picture of myself. This can help bridge the gap and create an environment where everyone feels free to be themselves, without fear of judgment or rejection.

Essentially, acknowledging this paradox is the first step towards finding balance. By embracing both my own vulnerabilities and respecting the admiration of others, I can work towards a more nuanced and empathetic relationship with those around me. It's an ongoing challenge, but one that's worth undertaking because it leads to deeper, more meaningful connections and a stronger sense of community.

Sharing does no harm.

Sharing that I sometimes struggle brings me closer to others.

By openly sharing that I sometimes find things difficult, I reduce the distance between myself and others. It means that people don't just see me as a leader or a role model, but also as a human with my own challenges and vulnerabilities. This can have a profound impact on the relationships I have with the people around me.

When I share my own struggles and difficulties, I show that I'm fallible. This makes me more approachable and relatable to others. They no longer see just the strong, infallible leader, but also someone who, like them, wrestles with everyday problems. This can lead to a stronger sense of identification, fostering greater feelings of connection and mutual understanding.

Sharing my own difficulties can also be a source of comfort and inspiration for others. It reminds them that it's normal to sometimes struggle and that even those they admire don't always have everything under control. This can encourage them to be open about their own struggles and seek help when needed. Moreover, it fosters a culture of openness and empathy, where everyone feels supported and understood.

By showing that I struggle too, I give others the courage to show their own vulnerabilities. This can lead to deeper and more authentic connections, as people feel safe to be honest about their own experiences. Sharing my own difficulties can also help create a more realistic view of success and leadership. It emphasizes that success doesn't mean you don't have problems, but rather that you learn to deal with and overcome them.

Furthermore, sharing my own challenges can lead to a stronger community. When people see that their leader also has vulnerabilities, they may feel more comfortable sharing their own stories. This can result in a deeper sense of connection and a stronger support system within the group. Everyone can learn and grow from shared experiences, contributing to a tighter, more empathetic community.

In essence, by being open about my own difficulties, I give others the space to do the same. This creates an environment where vulnerability is not a sign of weakness, but a bridge to deeper, more authentic connections. It reduces the distance between myself and those who look up to me, strengthening the sense of community and mutual support. It's a powerful way to show that, despite the pedestal on which I may be placed, I am still connected to the reality and the human experiences that everyone shares.

Most members see me as someone who never gets sick, never feels pain, always tough, as a man who shouldn't cry. That's because they need that. And I adapt to that. I shut off the rest of my own self because that's my secret.

The image that others have of me is that of an unwavering rock. They see me as someone who never gets sick, never feels pain, and is always tough. In their eyes, I am the embodiment of resilience and strength, a man who shouldn't cry. This image didn't just come about; it stems from their own needs and expectations. They need someone who represents these qualities, someone they can rely on and who gives them a sense of security and stability.

In an attempt to meet these expectations, I adapt. I play the role they expect of me because I understand how important it is for them to maintain that image. I show them what they want to see: the strong, infallible leader. This allows them to feel empowered and supported. It gives them an anchor, something to hold onto in difficult times.

But this adaptation comes at a cost. I shut off the rest of my own self. I keep my own vulnerabilities, fears, and emotions hidden. This is my secret, a part of myself that I don't share with others. It feels safer to keep this inside, to prevent it from tarnishing the perfect image they have of me.

The consequence of this is deep inner isolation. By shutting off a part of myself, I carry a burden that no one sees. The constant mask I wear can be exhausting and draining. The pressure to always be strong and never show that I'm struggling weighs heavily on me. It's a lonely road, where I feel like there's no one with whom I can truly share what I'm going through.

However, it's important to acknowledge that showing vulnerability is not a sign of weakness, but rather of courage. By opening up and being honest about my own experiences, I can help others embrace their own vulnerabilities too. Breaking this cycle of a perfect facade can lead to deeper, more authentic relationships, where mutual understanding and empathy are central.

Finding a balance between meeting the needs of others and staying true to myself is an ongoing challenge. But it's a challenge worth taking on because it leads to a more fulfilling and balanced life. Sharing my true self, including my secrets and vulnerabilities, can be a source of strength and inspiration for others and helps build a community where everyone feels accepted and understood.

My world

My home is a reflection of my inner world, a place where my thoughts, feelings, and personalities converge. Anyone who enters my home steps into this intimate space and catches a glimpse of who I truly am. They wander around, taking in the surroundings, and I see their gaze wander over the books, artworks, and personal belongings that fill my living space.

There's a moment of silence and then a subtle change in their eyes. A glimmer of melancholy appears as they look at me, as if they suddenly understand a deeper truth. Their eyes seem to say, "I now understand how lonely you feel and how little understood by the outside world." They feel the disconnection, the gap between my unique way of thinking and society's common perceptions.

My way of thinking is different, perhaps more complex, and that makes it difficult for others to fully comprehend me. I see the recognition in their eyes that my mindset is sublime, that it delves deeper than what most people experience or contemplate on a daily basis. This realization brings them a moment of melancholy, a kind of sad admiration for the isolation that comes with this brilliant but divergent way of thinking.

These moments of understanding are rare, but they are meaningful. They offer a fleeting connection, an acknowledgment that, although I often feel misunderstood and lonely, there are still people who catch a glimpse of my reality. They understand that my thoughts and ideas often transcend the boundaries of the ordinary and that this can be both a blessing and a burden.

The realization that my mindset is "sublime and beyond everyone's understanding" is both a compliment and an acknowledgment of the isolation that comes with it. People recognize the brilliance but also the loneliness it causes. They see that my mind is constantly in motion, always seeking deeper meanings and larger connections, which sometimes alienates me from the everyday world around me.

This moment of mutual understanding, although fleeting, is valuable. It reminds me that my isolation is not total, that there are people who, if only for a moment, understand what it's like to live with a mindset that is so fundamentally different from the norm. It gives me a sense of connection, a reminder that, despite the loneliness I often feel, my world and my way of thinking still resonate with others in a deeper, more fundamental way.

In these moments, I feel less alone, knowing that my unique perspective is appreciated and understood, even if only for a moment. It offers a glimpse of hope and an affirmation that my path, though different, still holds meaning and value in the eyes of others.

A Hard lesson

A hard, but valuable lesson has been to discover that many of the people I considered friends actually only came to take. Perhaps that was their role in my life, to confront me with the limits of my own goodness and generosity. It has taught me to be more cautious in giving my time, energy, and love to others, and to pay more attention to my own needs and boundaries.

It's painful to realize that my good intentions were not always appreciated, and that some people only saw me as a source of help and support, without giving anything in return. But instead of becoming bitter from these experiences, I have learned from them. I've learned not to let my worth depend on the approval or appreciation of others, and to follow my own path regardless of what others expect from me.

It was a process of self-discovery, of recognizing and embracing my own blueprint, my unique essence. I discovered that my constant adjustments to meet the expectations of others only harmed me, and that it was never enough to meet their needs. So I had to focus on myself, take my own needs and desires seriously, and put myself first.

It wasn't a selfish act, but rather an act of self-love and self-respect. I realized that I know best what I need because I can give it to myself. I don't need to depend on others to feel happy, fulfilled, or appreciated. I have the power to rediscover myself, to follow my own path, and to pursue my own happiness.

And in this journey of self-discovery, I have found a deep inner peace, a sense of wholeness and completeness that I had never experienced before. I am stronger, more resilient, and more balanced than ever before. And although it sometimes seems like a lonely road, I now know that I am never alone because I always have myself to fall back on. And that is a powerful and liberating thought.

The reason I know best what I need is because I have restored the connection with my own inner voice. I have learned to listen to my intuition, my deepest desires, and needs, and to act on them. This doesn't mean I have to do it alone; on the contrary, I am aware that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

By allowing myself to ask for help when needed, I maintain my autonomy and independence. I recognize that I don't have to carry everything alone and that sharing my burdens with others is a sign of wisdom and courage. It allows me to focus my energy on what truly matters to me, while at the same time creating a supportive network around me.

The process of removing the layers of everything others had imposed on me has been an act of liberation and self-fulfillment. I have freed myself from the expectations, beliefs, and limitations that others had imposed on me, and have sought out my own truth and authenticity.

This is an ongoing journey of growth and development, a journey that brings me closer to myself. I am no longer bound by the limitations of the past; I embrace the possibilities of the present and the future with open arms. I am free to be who I truly am, to follow my own path, and to create my own happiness.

And although this journey can sometimes be challenging, I know that I am never alone. I have found myself in this process, and that is the greatest strength I possess. With my inner compass as a guide and my own inner strength as a pillar of support, I am ready to face any challenge and lead my life on my own terms.

This journey of self-discovery has taught me that the greatest strength does not come from outside, but from within. Every difficulty, every obstacle, and every setback has made me stronger and has fueled my determination. My inner compass guides me through the darkest times, while my inner strength gives me the courage to persevere, regardless of the circumstances.

I have learned to trust my intuition and base my decisions on what is best for me, rather than conforming to the expectations of others. This self-confidence and self-awareness have given me the freedom to choose my own path and pursue my own goals. I am no longer bound by fear or doubt but am able to pursue my dreams with determination and conviction.

Every step I take, no matter how small, is evidence of my growth and my determination to lead my life on my own terms. I am not afraid of change or uncertainty because I know I have the power to overcome any challenge. My journey is unique and personal, and I embrace every aspect of it with an open heart and a strong mind.

With this self-assurance and inner strength, I am ready to face any challenge that comes my way. I am determined to live my life according to my own rules and pursue my own dreams. I know I have the power to succeed because I have found my greatest strength from within.

He understands it but doesn't quite get there himself.

It's an irony that doesn't go unnoticed: sometimes I meet people who, though they understand my complexity and can appreciate my unique perspective, are still unable to reach the same depths of thought themselves. They recognize the subtlety of my thoughts, the nuances of my worldview, and yet they remain stuck in their own way of thinking.

It's as if they reach the edge of a precipice but can't step over it. They can perceive the beauty and complexity of my mindset, but simultaneously feel bound by the limitations of their own thought patterns. It takes a certain degree of openness and flexibility to make the leap to a deeper understanding, a level of thinking that goes beyond what they're accustomed to.

This observation evokes a sense of compassion in me. I understand that breaking free from familiar frameworks of thinking isn't easy, to open oneself to new perspectives and ideas that might challenge one's worldview. It requires courage and a certain level of intellectual curiosity to question the status quo and explore what lies beyond.