4 thoughts on “Blasphemy”

1. 1. Is it blasphemy synonymous with questioning? That is, is it blasphemous to try to be rational about the basic questions of religion?
   2. If the answer to 1. is yes, then is a parent obligated to shield his child from religions other than his own?
   3. Is it permissible in your religion for nonbelievers to try to reason their way into the flock, or are you preaching here only to the converted?

   JW

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   • Doubt, as I understand it, is natural to the human psyche. It can be a healthy stage in seeking understanding and knowledge of the Truth, leading to investigation, and deeper prayer, if one is desirous of the Truth. Human reason is a gift of God and using it is only reasonable. Truly searching for God demands a man make every effort using his mind, a sound will, “an upright heart,” as well as seeking sound and authoritative teaching, and not allowing oneself “to be tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming.”

     Blasphemy, “According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church: 2148:
     ” is directly opposed to the second commandment. It consists in uttering against God—inwardly or outwardly—words of hatred, reproach, or defiance; in speaking ill of God; in failing in respect toward him in one’s speech; in misusing God’s name. St. James condemns those “who blaspheme that honorable name [of Jesus] by which you are called.” The prohibition of blasphemy extends to LANGUAGE against Christ’s Church, the saints, and sacred things. It is also blasphemous to make use of God’s name to cover up criminal practices, to reduce peoples to servitude, to torture persons or put them to death. The misuse of God’s name to commit a crime can provoke others to repudiate religion. Blasphemy is contrary to the respect due God and his holy name. It is in itself a grave sin.”

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     • Joann,

       I understand from a layman’s viewpoint the need for the strictures of the Catechism, the Holy Bible, or the Quran. Those presuppose an a’priori acceptance of the respective faith. But my questions were meant to apply to one who has yet to make that initial acceptance.

       In your first paragraph you imply that circular logic be used, i.e., that the Truth is already defined and that only the Way to that Truth is in doubt. This is unsatisfying to a rational mind. But thanks for trying anyway.

       JW

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       • You are welcome!

         I think I understand your position. I pray God lead you in your seeking until you find Him who loves us all.

         If by “circular reasoning” you were referring to my comment on reason, I meant that God Who put it into our make up would expect us to use it, after all, it is part of who we are as cognizant creatures. It’s like using our eyes in evaluating a circumstance we want to observe and understand. Pretending to be blind would be foolish and not worthy of the creature.

         The Truth if it be Truth is already defined. God is unchanging. Even if it is not as yet clear to an observer it is what it is. The Catechism doesn’t create it or the Quran. God’s Holy Spirit is needed for grasp the things God reveals. I keep asking that He enlightening me day by day.

         As an aside: I see you are a Naval Academy grad. My husband is a West Point grad. Probably a case of “Never the twain shall meet.”
         Peace and thank you for visiting me site.
         Joann

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