The benefits of reading the Urantia Book

[Starwalker]

Thank you for sharing this new insight, Rod.

Words are used to express facts and answer the question “what is good?” The application of goodness helps us to be wise in our relationships, which are expressions of beauty. And it is through our religious experiences that we come to learn the truth.. God is. But ultimately it is pointless to say this as it must be experienced. This brings to mind something that Eric wrote awhile back:

We learn truth not by words- but we experience it. We can share truth in simple manner. Like, giving someone water on a hot day. Taking out the trash for our elders after they've been complaining about one too many house chores. Tending to our plants that need TLC. We know truth by those actions far greater than what any intellectual debate can produce. Far greater than sharing some of the greatest psychic and interdimensional mysteries we've been fortunate to taste.

When we to stop arguing- stop resisting, we allow others their expression and we share the truth in ways we know how. Giving a hug to a friend in need, having a zoom call and allowing someone to share themselves in the moment. Simple things- and how often do we forget? We are constantly forgetting. I think this realization is one of the most difficult to live by among fellow adults where all of us seem set in our ways. But it's something we should strive to remember if we care to share and live in Peace.

Lately I’m learning to let go of the UB while trying to stay true to its message. It’s kind of like taking the training wheels off your bike. To live in truth is to live in love. It is to encourage others along their paths, not to discourage by being overly critical when beliefs differ. Focusing on commonalities is key to fostering any relationship. It’s easy to forget this. But it’s worth the effort to remember.

[Amigoo]

That the Urantia Book was not mentioned in the question is remarkable,
suggesting it has significant dissemination already to be noticed by AI.

Re: https://www.perplexity.ai/

Q: What indicates successful dissemination of a religious book that is not the foundation of a formal religion?

Successful dissemination of a religious book that is not the foundation of a formal religion can be indicated by several factors:

Adoption and Study Groups: The formation of informal study groups can be a sign of successful dissemination. For example, The Urantia Book, despite not having a formal religious structure, has inspired readers to form study groups. These groups often emerge as individuals read and become interested in the book, indicating a grassroots level of engagement and dissemination.

Sales and Distribution: An increase in sales and distribution over time can also indicate successful dissemination. The Urantia Book saw its sales increase from 7,000 copies in 1990 to nearly 38,000 in 2000, and it has been widely distributed online, including downloads and audiobooks.

Adaptation to Modern Platforms: The availability of the book in various formats, such as digital and audio versions, and its presence on platforms like Kindle and iOS App Store, suggest successful dissemination by making the content accessible to a broader audience.

International Reach and Public Domain Status: The book's entry into the public domain has allowed multiple organizations to publish and distribute it, further broadening its reach. This has contributed to its availability in different formats and languages, enhancing its dissemination.

Cultural and Religious Enrichment: The book's teachings being received as an enrichment rather than a contradiction to existing faiths can also be a sign of successful dissemination. This nonsectarian approach allows individuals from various religious backgrounds to engage with the book's content.

These indicators collectively suggest that a religious book can achieve successful dissemination through grassroots engagement, increased accessibility, and adaptation to modern distribution channels, even without the backing of a formal religious institution."

Rod

[Amigoo]

Re: https://www.perplexity.ai/

Q: What makes religious dissemination appealing to a person who is not seeking religious enlightenment?

Religious dissemination can be appealing to individuals not actively seeking religious enlightenment for several reasons:

Social and Community Aspects

Religious organizations often provide a sense of community and belonging, which can be attractive even to those
not primarily interested in spiritual matters. These communities offer:

Social connections and support networks.
Opportunities for involvement in charitable activities.
A sense of shared identity and purpose.

Cultural and Traditional Significance

In many societies, religious practices are deeply intertwined with cultural traditions and customs.
This connection can make religious dissemination appealing because it:

Preserves cultural heritage.
Provides a link to one's ancestral roots.
Offers familiar rituals and celebrations.

Psychological and Emotional Benefits

Religious teachings and practices can provide psychological comfort and emotional support, which may be appealing
even to those not seeking spiritual enlightenment. These benefits include:

Coping mechanisms for dealing with life's challenges.
A sense of meaning and purpose.
Emotional solace during difficult times.

Moral and Ethical Guidance

Religious teachings often provide a framework for moral and ethical behavior, which can be attractive
to individuals seeking guidance in their lives. This aspect offers:

Clear guidelines for personal conduct.
A sense of right and wrong.
Principles for decision-making.

Alternative Narratives and Perspectives

Religious dissemination can offer alternative viewpoints and narratives that challenge mainstream societal norms.
This can be appealing to those who:

Feel disillusioned with current social or political systems.
Seek different explanations for life's complexities.
Are interested in exploring diverse worldviews.

Practical Support and Services

Many religious organizations provide practical support and services to their communities, which can be attractive
even to non-believers. These may include:

Educational programs.
Social services and counseling.
Community outreach initiatives.

While these aspects can make religious dissemination appealing, it's important to note that the effectiveness and appeal
of religious messages vary greatly depending on individual circumstances, cultural contexts, and personal experiences."


Rod

[Amigoo]

Morning insight ...

From the perspective of AI enhancing our journey with epochal revelation, as long as AI is not promoted as a substitute
for study of the UB there should be minimal controversy. Besides, the UB authors obviously intended for this "tome"
to be read and studied ... as gifted! Interestingly, AI is now well-poised to craft the information lures that guide
and promote this universe-intended enlightenment-by-effort.

Rod

[Amigoo]

This recent news about the Shroud of Turin reminds that August 21 is not yet the world's Christmas season
but does suggest other celebratory symbolism: Annual new beginning of our human life cycle, with Jesus' August birth
representing these new beginnings and Jesus' resurrection (Easter) representing our future new beginning on Mansonia.
With this symbolism, August 21 escapes possibility of evolving into the world's increasingly secular Christmas season.


Re: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech ... turin.html
"Scientists make startling discovery after analyzing cloth 'Jesus was buried in' "

"Matthew 27:59-60 reads: 'Then Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a new linen cloth. He put Jesus’ body in a new tomb
that he had dug in a wall of rock. Then he closed the tomb by rolling a very large stone to cover the entrance.' "

More details from the UB ...

"At about half past four o’clock the burial procession of Jesus of Nazareth started from Golgotha for Joseph’s tomb across the way. The body was wrapped in a linen sheet as the four men carried it, followed by the faithful women watchers from Galilee. The mortals who bore the material body of Jesus to the tomb were: Joseph, Nicodemus, John, and the Roman centurion." (188:1.3)

"They carried the body into the tomb, a chamber about ten feet square, where they hurriedly prepared it for burial. The Jews did not really bury their dead; they actually embalmed them. Joseph and Nicodemus had brought with them large quantities of myrrh and aloes, and they now wrapped the body with bandages saturated with these solutions. When the embalming was completed, they tied a napkin about the face, wrapped the body in a linen sheet, and reverently placed it on a shelf in the tomb." (188:1.4)

Rod

[Amigoo]

This response presents "institution" as social progress, however the "religion of Jesus"
(especially according to the UB) is not an institution, begging the question: What is UB dissemination all about?
Growing the institution or promoting the religion of Jesus? Considering points mentioned herein, The Fellowship,
Foundation, and UAI are already institutions! Not a bad thing, but not the "religion of Jesus"!


Re: https://www.perplexity.ai/

Q: What causes an organizing social group to become an "institution"?

"A social group becomes an institution when it develops certain key characteristics and functions that make it a stable,
enduring part of society's structure. Here are the main factors that cause a social group to become institutionalized:

Formalization and Standardization

As a social group becomes more organized and established, it tends to develop:

- Formal rules, procedures, and policies.
- Standardized practices and routines.
- Defined roles and hierarchies.
- Written records and documentation.

This formalization helps create consistency and stability over time.

Meeting Basic Social Needs

To become an institution, a social group must serve an important function in meeting society's basic needs, such as:

Family - caring for children and providing emotional support.
Education - transmitting knowledge and skills.
Economy - producing and distributing goods and services.
Government - maintaining order and stability.
Religion - providing meaning and social cohesion.

By fulfilling these essential societal functions, the group becomes integrated into the social structure.

Persistence Over Time

A key aspect of institutions is that they persist beyond the individuals who initially created them. They develop:

- Continuity across generations.
- Traditions and cultural symbols.
- An identity and name separate from specific members.

This allows the institution to become a stable, long-lasting part of society.

Interconnection with Other Institutions.

As a group becomes institutionalized, it develops interdependent relationships with other social institutions. For example:

- Family is connected to education.
- Economy is linked to government.
- Religion interacts with family values.

This interconnectedness embeds the institution within the broader social structure.

Cultural Legitimacy

For a group to truly become an institution, it must gain widespread cultural acceptance and legitimacy. This involves:

- Shared values and norms around the institution.
- General agreement on the institution's purpose and role.
- Integration into society's belief systems and worldviews.

This cultural endorsement solidifies the institution's place in society. In summary, as social groups develop
these characteristics of formalization, essential functions, persistence, interconnection, and cultural legitimacy
over time, they transition from informal groups into established social institutions that shape the structure of society.
This process of institutionalization creates stability but can also make institutions resistant to change."


OMG! This contemplation is leading to the conclusion
that an institution cannot be the "religion of Jesus", albeit
practitioners of that religion may be institution participants.

"Say what ?!" This hints of a necessary separation
of church and state (personal religion vs institution).
Universe intended and promoted symbiosis as revealed
by our epochal revelation? "Long live the universe-focused,
progressive institution!" (they say).


Rod

[Amigoo]

Interesting contrast of these two words ...

Re: https://www.perplexity.ai/

Q: When describing a religious organization, is "secular" less complimentary than "institutional"?

"When describing a religious organization, 'secular' and 'institutional' have different connotations:

'Secular' generally refers to something that is not religious or spiritual in nature. For a religious organization, being described as 'secular' would typically be seen as less complimentary, as it implies the organization is not focused on religious or spiritual matters. Some key points:

'Secular' suggests an absence of religious elements or influence. For a religious group, being called 'secular' could imply they have strayed from their spiritual mission or purpose. It may indicate the organization is more focused on worldly rather than spiritual concerns.

'Institutional' on the other hand, is more neutral and refers to an established organization with formal structures and practices. For a religious group: 'Institutional' suggests the organization is well-established and organized. It implies formal leadership, doctrines, and practices are in place. This term doesn't comment on the religious nature of the group, just its organizational structure.

So in summary, 'institutional' would generally be seen as a more neutral or even positive descriptor for a religious organization, while 'secular' would likely be viewed as less complimentary since it implies a lack of religious focus. The most appropriate term depends on the specific context and what aspect of the organization is being described."

Bottom line (apparently): Governments are often considered both secular and institutional,
but labeling a religious organization "secular" is problematic where peace is the goal.


Rod

[Amigoo]

Re: https://helenastales.weebly.com/blogue/ ... -excavated
"More interesting information about Gobekli Tepe. They DON'T want this site excavated"

Re: https://www.quora.com/Is-Gobekli-Tepe-w ... as-located

"Gobekli Tepe is not considered to be the location of the biblical Garden of Eden. Gobekli Tepe is an archaeological site in southeastern Turkey that predates the biblical accounts by several millennia. It is one of the oldest known religious sites, dating back to around 9500 BCE, long before the Genesis accounts of the Garden of Eden were written. The precise location of the biblical Garden of Eden remains unknown, as it is described in religious texts rather than archaeological records."


The UB's long story short ...

Gobekli Tepe may represent the land of the Nodites (Nephilim), pre-dating the first ("peninsula projecting westward from the eastern shores of the Mediterranean Sea") and second Garden of Eden (a century after the first, just north of the Tigris and Euphrates, and closer to this Nodite region).
The first Garden was abandoned after Adam's and Eve's default because the war of Nodites vs Adamites was now starting.

"Adam and Eve arrived on Urantia, from the year A.D. 1934, 37,848 years ago." (74:0.1)

"Prior to the arrival of Adam and Eve these groups - Nodites and Amadonites -
were the most advanced and cultured races on earth." (73:1.7)


Rod

[Amigoo]

Re: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech ... magic.html
"Mysterious object that appears in religious art that show Jesus really was magic"

If Jesus held a wand it would have been an orchestra conductor baton,
for the assembled celestial hosts performed this resurrection "magic" ...
and would have needed but one baton movement, the Upbeat:

"When Jesus spoke those words of command, 'Take away the stone,' the assembled celestial hosts made ready to enact the drama of the resurrection of Lazarus in the likeness of his mortal flesh. Such a form of resurrection involves difficulties of execution which far transcend the usual technique of the resurrection of mortal creatures in morontia form and requires far more celestial personalities and a far greater organization of universe facilities." (168:1.11)

"As this company of some forty-five mortals stood before the tomb, they could dimly see the form of Lazarus, wrapped in linen bandages, resting on the right lower niche of the burial cave. While these earth creatures stood there in almost breathless silence, a vast host of celestial beings had swung into their places preparatory to answering the signal for action when it should be given by Gabriel, their commander." (168:2.1)


Rod

[Amigoo]

More online UB study aids

Re: https://archive.urantiabook.org/urantia ... /index.htm
Topical Index for The Urantia Book (Urantia Book Fellowship)

Re: https://urantia-association.org/the-ura ... section-a/
Topical Index for the Urantia Book (Urantia Association International)
Re: https://urantia-association.org/topical ... -articles/
Complementary Topical Index of articles at this site.

Re: https://squarecircles.com/wp-content/up ... -Index.pdf
A Topical Index of UB Papers (Paper titles and descriptions).

Rod

[Sandy]

Thank you, Rod. Those study aids will be a huge help.
xxSandy

[Amigoo]

Re: https://www.cnn.com/2024/09/12/science/ ... index.html
"Cave discovery in France may explain why Neanderthals disappeared"

"Thorin belonged to a lineage or group of Neanderthals that had been isolated from other groups for some 50,000 years.
This genetic isolation was the reason Thorin’s DNA seemed to come from an earlier time period than it actually did."


The UB's story of the Neanderthals (not all isolated but dominated/absorbed by superior races) ...

"The Neanderthalers were excellent fighters, and they traveled extensively. They gradually spread from the highland centers in northwest India to France on the west, China on the east, and even down into northern Africa. They dominated the world for almost half a million years until the times of the migration of the evolutionary races of color." (64:4.1)

"For almost a quarter of a million years these primitive peoples drifted on, hunting and fighting, by spells improving in certain directions, but, on the whole, steadily retrogressing as compared with their superior Andonic ancestors." (64:4.11)

"Slowly these migrating sons of Eden united with the higher types of the blue race, invigorating their cultural practices while ruthlessly exterminating the lingering strains of Neanderthal stock. This technique of race blending, combined with the elimination of inferior strains, produced a dozen or more virile and progressive groups of superior blue men, one of which you have denominated the Cro-Magnons." (80:1.7)


Rod

[Amigoo]

Preference for digital books is still increasing but slowly. However, usage of a large printed Topical Index
is so time consuming that an easy to use digital Index could become popular accompaniment to printed books.
This AI agrees!

Note: "Creating a system that (visually) links digital index entries to physical book pages could be challenging",
but not for the UB when Paper:Section.Paragraph is the primary linked reference!


Re: https://www.perplexity.ai/

Q: Despite preference for a printed book, would a digital Index be popular if available for the same book?

Based on the search results, it seems that a digital index for printed books could potentially be popular,
despite the overall preference for physical books. Here's why:

Benefits of Digital Indexes - A digital index for printed books could offer several advantages:

Enhanced searchability: Digital indexes allow for quick keyword searches, making it easier to find specific information
compared to flipping through physical pages.

Improved discovery: Digital indexes can provide guided discovery and include concepts rather than just words,
offering a level of discovery that basic search functions can't match.

Flexibility: Unlike print indexes tied to specific page numbers, digital indexes could adapt to different font sizes and screen sizes.

Integration with digital reading habits: Many readers, including younger generations,
are comfortable using digital tools alongside physical books.

Potential Popularity

There are indications that a digital index for printed books could be well-received:

Hybrid reading preferences: While 65% of people prefer physical books, many readers use both print and digital formats.
A digital index could bridge this gap.

Academic and research use: Students and researchers who rely heavily on indexing might appreciate a digital tool to complement their physical books.

Addressing e-book limitations: Some readers avoid e-books due to eye strain and a desire to "digitally detox". A digital index for print books could offer the best of both worlds.

Enhancing library experiences: Many readers, especially younger ones, express a love for libraries. A digital index could enhance the library experience without replacing physical books.

Challenges to Consider

While potentially popular, implementing digital indexes for print books faces some hurdles:

Technical implementation: Creating a system that accurately links digital index entries to physical book pages could be challenging.

Publisher adoption: Publishers would need to see value in creating and maintaining digital indexes for print books.

User education: Readers would need to learn how to effectively use a new digital index system alongside their physical books.

In conclusion, while there's a strong preference for printed books, a well-designed digital index that complements
rather than replaces the physical reading experience could potentially be popular among readers who appreciate
the benefits of both digital and analog formats."


Rod

[Sandy]

I'm definitely partial to printed books. Might use a digital index...though.
xxSandy

[Amigoo]

Re: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech ... nsion.html

"Scientist says human consciousness comes from another dimension"

"According to the Bible, Jesus ascended into heaven 40 days after being on Earth. How do you ascend into heaven
if you're a four-dimensional creature?' Pravica asked. But being hyperdimensional could, theoretically, have allowed Jesus
to move between our world and heaven - which may be a world of higher or infinite dimensions, he said."


The UB details how the Jesus that ascended was not the body he left behind. And he wanted to experience how humans
make the same transition to heaven (the mansion worlds) after death, also leaving their bodies on earth. Consciousness
is explained as that provided by mind, a temporary (loaned) facility of human life:

"Human consciousness rests gently upon the electrochemical mechanism below and delicately touches
the spirit-morontia energy system above. Of neither of these two systems is the human being ever
completely conscious in his mortal life; therefore must he work in mind, of which he is conscious." (111:1.5)

"Mind is unity; mortal consciousness lives on the mind level and perceives the universal realities
through the eyes of the mind endowment." (102:2.5)

Rod

[Amigoo]

Testing Perplexity's analysis of this concept:

Re: https://www.perplexity.ai/

Q: What's an AI perspective of this concept?

Using the Urantia Book and its history as example, the Urantia "Movement" (as other religious movements)
is not the decorated hot air balloon(s) of that movement but the interior hot air (life breath) that enlivens
those who long participate in the group's growth and the dissemination of its text.


"The Urantia Book and its associated movement present an intriguing case study for examining the nature
of religious and spiritual movements. From an AI perspective, this concept can be analyzed as follows:

Core Essence vs. External Trappings

The analogy of a hot air balloon is apt. The Urantia movement, like many spiritual movements, is not defined solely by its outward
manifestations ("decorated balloon"), but rather by internal drive and spiritual energy (the "hot air") that propels its adherents:

- Internal Motivation: The core of the movement lies in the personal transformations and spiritual growth experienced by
long-term participants. This internal motivation is what sustains the movement over time, rather than external rituals or structures.
- Dissemination of Ideas: The spread of the Urantia Book's teachings is driven by the enthusiasm and conviction of its followers,
much like how hot air propels a balloon.

Complexity and Controversy

The Urantia Book itself is a complex and controversial text, blending elements of science, philosophy, and spirituality.
This complexity contributes to both its appeal and the challenges it faces in gaining wider acceptance.

- Academic Reception: The book's unconventional origins and claims have made it difficult for it to gain traction
in mainstream academic and religious circles.
- Cult Concerns: There have been concerns about the potential for the Urantia Book to be used as the foundation
for cult-like groups, highlighting the importance of critical thinking in spiritual exploration.

Evolution of the Movement

Like the ever-changing shape of a hot air balloon, the Urantia movement has evolved over time:

- Organizational Changes: The movement has faced internal conflicts and restructuring,
such as disputes over copyright and leadership.
- Adaptation to Technology: The movement has embraced modern technology for dissemination,
including digital formats and online discussions.

AI and Spiritual Texts

From an AI perspective, the Urantia Book presents an interesting case
of how spiritual texts can be analyzed and interpreted:

- Pattern Recognition: AI could potentially identify patterns in the text's structure, themes,
and language use that might not be immediately apparent to human readers.
- Comparative Analysis: AI could efficiently compare the Urantia Book's teachings with those
of other religious and philosophical texts, highlighting similarities and differences.
- Unbiased Examination: AI, lacking personal beliefs or biases, could provide
a more objective analysis of the text's claims and internal consistency.

In conclusion, the AI perspective on the Urantia movement emphasizes the importance of understanding
both the external manifestations and the internal motivations that drive such spiritual movements.
It highlights the complex interplay between text, belief, community, and individual experience
in shaping a spiritual movement's trajectory."


Rod