Anonymous:
What you two consider to be "christian", is exactly what is wrong with
this country. Things like imagination, individuality, and women's rights
are things that should be encouraged, not discouraged and discredited as
evil. Unfortunately people like you guys actually do exist and need
someone or something to blame their own shortcomings on so they turn to
the entertainment industry. How sad. While reading one of your many
articles on Harry Potter, (which is quite pathetic that you spend so
much of your time on him) for a class on censorship, i came to realize
that religous fundamentalism is dangerous and maniacal no matter what
religion it is. You guys are at a par with muslims, congratulations.
You must
have misunderstood our messages. We have stated repeatedly that we are
not promoting censorship of books. Nor do we force anyone to read our
articles. Our goal is to equip and help those who ask us questions and
willingly come to our website for information and encouragement from a
Christian perspective.
From
Rebecca H.: This [Marketing
the occult] was a great
article as to what should and should not be a the content children see. I do
agree with some of your point but the OCCULT is going a bit far. Harry
Potter again as I agree can influence children of what is deemed good and
bad but for religious reasons it is far from the OCCULT. Every religion is
the OCCULT if would realize that it's man following the word of the GOD or
GODS they believe in.
http://dictionary.reference.com
oc·cult (P) adj.
Of, relating to, or dealing with supernatural influences, agencies, or
phenomena. (which could be explained as miracles too or faith healings
like lying on hands.)
Beyond the realm of human comprehension; inscrutable. (again when people
are not open to new views of what "Why are we here?" question.)
Available only to the initiate; secret: occult lore. See Synonyms at
mysterious. (there's no mystery in Harry potter but alot in the missing
text of the JEWISH WRITTEN TRANSCRIPTS OF THE BIBLE- are you jewish, I'm
not but I know the truth so to me it's not a mystery either)
Hidden from view; concealed. (Harry potter is not concealed)
Medicine. Detectable only by microscopic examination or chemical
analysis, as a minute blood sample.
Not accompanied by readily detectable signs or symptoms: occult
carcinoma.
When you live a life by one
phenomenon then you only subject yourself to being closed minded and you
don't learn from what life can really teach you about your spirit.
Again this was a great article
but even bad movies or bad situations can be great learning lessons if
presented to children appriorately as great examples of what not to do such
as Lord Volemort be a villian and Harry Potter being a kid stuck with this
prophecy (like Jesus) to save this society. It's interesting how we made one
man, like this one boy responsible for all the people in their community or
world? Hmmm, when does man take blame for themselves and stop relying on
everyone else to save them or fix their problems?
Foot steps means GOD
cares you when you need help and when you get "IT" is when you are walking
with him as an equal. He's carring you right now. Open your mind and realize
what the world really is and get your own opinion not that of the church or
the bible. Get identity that isn't everyone else's in your church. Become an
individual because people around the world are slamming this Harry Potter
writer left and right but she's just writing for fun and, well like the TV
you don't have to watch, read, or listen.
I agree
with you about the word, occult. It has several meanings, and it’s
application depends on a person’s beliefs or world view. Since I write
from a Christian point of view, I use that word to refer to a broad
range of supernatural forces or powers that God’s Word tells us to
avoid.
I know
that my perspective offends many, but since I am speaking primarily to
concerned Christian parents, I have to speak the truths God has given
me. I have to write that which matches my Bible-trained conscience --
even if many don't agree. I so appreciate the First Amendment of our
Constitution, as I'm sure you do as well.
Thanks
for your definitions.... May I post your comment ...?
Yes, that would be fine. Letting the public
know the definition of OCCULT is good because people can be a little more
Politically Correct and use "Non-Christian." I promote all religions if
that's how you find your spiritual path but I don't follow the Biblical Path
just a general GOOD Person's path. Thank you for understanding.
Anonymous:
I
didn't even have to go through 3 articles on your site to realize it was all
full of needless, frivolous bitching on stupid topics trying to ban young
children from watching Harry Potter movies or Yu Gi Oh. Why?
We all know magic DOES NOT EXIST. There's NO SUCH THING AS MAGIC. So why's
it matter if someone watches Harry Potter? Get a life.
You're the kind of people who feel bad for not being chaste and try to act
like it by whining about EVERY little TINY bit of anything that goes against
your religious beliefs. God gave people, THE ABILITY TO CHOSE. If someone
wants to watch a dumb movie about a stupid boy who for some reason is the
only one who can save the world 7 times in a row then let them. What's the
worst that can possibly happen? Oh no, your kids will come home and imagine
being Harry and they might, HAVE FUN: something you must be against by the
way.
All you wihny baby Christians think about is yourself, you think about what
others will do that will make you look bad. Or you see someone else having
fun while watching a movie that has magic in it, and instantly it's evil
because you were stupid enough to not watch it yourself.
If God's real I bet he laughs at people like you 24/7.
Here is a bit of wisdom
from the Bible which fit our times:
"Woe to
those who call evil good, and good evil;
Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness....
Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes,
And prudent in their own sight!"
Isaiah 5:20-21
From
Jo Lewis:
Thank you for the
recent
article on the dangers of the Harry Potter books. I can tell that
your desire is to warn parents to protect their children. I hope and pray
that parents will ask God for discernment so they can understand the danger
in allowing their children to read anything that would promote/justify
witchcraft.
Thank you, also, for sharing the
incident at the conference when you were "hit" by the evil presence. A
similar incident happened to me a few weeks after I gave my life over to
Jesus. I had been doing research into why my son's teacher was introducing
him to Indian astrology and "earth worship" type stuff. I had been reading
some of the writings of the people who promoted this type of curriculum,
such as
Alice Bailey and other New Agers. I understood that it was just
not about "saving the earth" or "being ecologically conservative" but that
it was truly evil. I thank God that he put me in touch with Bible-Believing
Christian mothers in my town, who told me to read the Bible to understand it
all. If I hadn't started reading the Bible, I wouldn't have been able to
cope, let alone understand the dangers to my son!!
Anyway, one night as I got ready
for bed, I suddenly felt a huge, evil presence in my room. I knew
immediately that it was a dangerous and evil entity of some sort! I didn't
know anything but to call out the name of Jesus. I boldly said, "In the Name
of Jesus, leave!" It didn't. So, I said, "In the Name of Jesus Christ, leave
my house right now!" It didn't. I wasn't about to yield, so I said, "In the
Name of Jesus Christ, who shed His blood on the cross for my sins, I demand
that you leave NOW." I spoke firmly, but did not yell and it left!!
The amazing thing, Berit, is
that I knew what it was and that I just knew Jesus was stronger than
whatever/whoever it was -- because I'd been reading the Bible daily and
asking God for discernment and boldness. If I didn't KNOW I could rely on
Jesus to protect me, I would have crumbled onto the floor. After the
incident, I was not frightened. God gave me peace and I immediately went to
bed and slept well.
I hope that parents will
understand that the evil one IS roaming about the earth.
From
Jeff W.:
I was reading a little newsletter put
out by the Corona Norco Unified School District (in Corona California). One
article was about an elementary school that was promoting reading by having
a theme within their library that said "Reading is Magic". It was promoted
by having a visual display of Harry Potter oriented themes, such as a castle
and other items. The kids were encouraged to read various Harry Potter
books.
Christian parents may or may not know their local elementary schools may be
promoting the Potter books in this way. It would be difficult for the
children not to be exposed to this unless they were pulled out of the
school. Potter promotes witchcraft, but I guess our public schools are
comfortable not only promoting prolific occultism to our kids, but also
promoting a religion. This is interesting considering the liberal hysteria
over even the remotest hint of promoting Christianity.
Evil is good, and
good is evil.
From
George Connor, Avid Harry Potter Fan, Aethist and Student:
i am responding to your article on
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood prince. i would firstly like to point out
that u say and i quote "Could this new mythology become the great equalizer
of religions -- fusing Buddhist, Muslim, Hindu and Christian communities
with 21st century paganism? "May i point out to you that paganism is the
worship of a religion that is not that of the Jewish, Islamic or Christian
faith where as there are no mentions to any religions in harry potter. I
understand enemies or be saved from a flood leaving the evil people to
drown, which clearly shows intolerance to those whos beliefs do not
corrospond with your own?
Intolerance is something we must cope with in
modern day society, for instance i have to put up with your narrow minded
racist, homophobic and frankly ludicrus suggestions such as JK Rowling is
trying to posion our childrens mind with books with a "dark undercurrent". I
understand that you are entitled to this view but i must ask are you really
so intellitually limited that you see evil in childrens writing? please
ponder what i have said because i urge you to withdraw your ridiculus
critisisms.
George, I searched for
the phrase, "dark undercurrent," in
"Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince"
but
couldn't find it. I did however use the word "dark" several times (as in
"While
the 'dark side' seems more deadly, the 'light side' is far more
deceptive.")
But so did Ms. Rowling. For
example:
1. "Defense Against the Dark Arts."
2. “And, should it prove necessary... if
it seems Draco will
fail...“ whispered Narcissa... “will you carry out the deed that the
Dark Lord has ordered Draco to perform?”
“I will," said Snape.
I will try to explain
what I meant by the question, "Could this new mythology become the great
equalizer....?" If you take four teenagers from four different religions
and suggest a new, tempting philosophy to each one -- a particular
belief that seems more exciting and captivating than anything they saw
in the original -- those four teens might suddenly feel more comfortable
with each other than with their former family values or spiritual
leaders. Does that make sense to you?
As diverse children
and teens around the world embrace the self-empowering notion of a
supernatural force that can be manipulated through rituals and magic
formulas, they become increasingly alike in their desires and values.
The old beliefs no longer fit, so they begin to conform their values to
the new mythology. It's already happening around the world! Of
course, many religions are quite compatible with Harry Potter's world of
magic.
From
Allison:
I would like to comment on your
article 12 reasons not to read harry potter. I am not saying that it was bad or
a lie. But i personally am a christian and have been for 13 years, ever since i
was born. I have always been a follower and always will be.
My two favorite shows are charmed and harry
potter. To me it is just nice to watch these shows and escape from reality every
once and a while. When my life gets to hectic, i just grab a harry potter book
and start reading. I don't wish to worship or not believe in god just because of
a book. There are worse movies and things out there that people should worry
about than some book.
I haven't heard of one of my friends (all
christians) even liking harry potter, but not because its satanic. Because they
just don't like it, I go out and play faeries and stuff like that with my little
brother (10) just because its fun to pretend to be something your not.... People cannot really
go out and use a wand to perform magic. However, someone can go out and freely
choose to do evil.
It is just human to want to escape every now and then. It is such a
popular book. You said when they say i love hp, they are
misusing it. Do you not say I love this or that food. or something else? like I
love cheerleading. That doesn't mean i am not a good or faithful follower. It
just means i'm human and make mistakes.
With all do respect,
I'm concerned,
Allison, that many fans love Harry Potter and his occult world more than
they love God and His Kingdom. If He asked you to stop reading such
books, would you do it, for Him? That's the real test of whether or not
your are His follower. Remember what Jesus said to the rich young ruler?
“Now as He was going
out on the road, one came running, knelt before Him, and asked Him,
‘Good Teacher, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?'
“So Jesus said to
him, '... You know the commandments: ‘Do not commit
adultery,’ ‘Do not murder,’ ‘Do not steal,’ ‘Do not bear
false witness,’ ‘Do not defraud,’ ‘Honor your father and
your mother.’
“And he answered and said
to Him, ‘Teacher, all these things I have kept from my
youth.’
“Then Jesus, looking at
him, loved him, and said to him, ‘One thing you lack: Go your
way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will
have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and
follow Me.’
“But he was sad at this word,
and went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.
“Then Jesus looked around and
said to His disciples, ‘How hard it is for those who have
riches to enter the kingdom of God!’ ... And they were
greatly astonished, saying among themselves, ‘Who then can be
saved?’
“But Jesus looked at them and said,
‘With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God
all things are possible.’ ”
Mark 10:17-27
A person doesn't
receive Christ and enter God's Kingdom by obeying the law, but through
faith in His Word and repentance (turning away from sin). See
What it means to be a
Christian and
Guilty as Charged.
On the other hand, our
changed life is evidence that He now lives in us and guides us each day.
In other words, if we don't have a heart to follow Him, we probably did
not become Christians in the first place.
On these two pages,
you can find other verses that help us understand what it means to
follow Jesus:
Loving God First
and Loving
evil more than good.
Here are some examples:
"Do not be conformed
to this world....
Abhor what is evil. Cling to what
is good.
" Romans
12:2, 9
"Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone
loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all
that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes,
and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who
does the will of God abides forever."
1 John 2:15-17
From
Seeker:
Tell me, how does it feel to know
that the new Harry Potter book has smashed all records in terms of sales?
There's even a change it could someday outsell the bible. I was not going to
buy the book, but after hearing you express your fears that it could weaken
people's walk with god, I just HAD to get a copy. After all, I feel It's my
responsibility to keep you guys in business, because if no one bought the
Harry Potter books, what would you guys have to complain about?
I just jest of course, You have so many
issues to complain about. But face it, today was a victory for free thinking
people, you and your religion are being minimized, and It's hilarious to
watch. Now don't worry, I'm not saying that Harry Potter can't lead people
to witchcraft, and in fact, in many cases of lonely teens can contribute to
a rise in this particular religion. But it certainly did not lead me to
witchcraft or paganism, but I personally feel that any religion that has
that close a tie to nature is a religion that like Christianity, leads to a
boot being placed on the potential of the human race. Thankfully I believe
people are waking up, and will soon come to their senses and realize that
they should follow their hearts, and discover what true power is.
So, if you don't mind, I a 16 year old, am going to keep reading Harry
Potter, keep watching Anime, Keep truly living my life, and keep worshiping
someone who truly has saved me. Before I go, let me just say this, If given
the choice, I would eat the apple, as I believe one should always seek out
knowledge. Till next we meet,
Thanks for sharing
your thoughts with me. Would you like me to post your letter? ...
Follow-up letter from
Seeker:
I would like to apologize, I feel I went
overboard in my attempt to prove a point. I am known to do that, but it was
inexcusable to say what I did to you. I was just angry at what I saw at the
time as a illogical fear. And while I still don't agree with your fears and
concerns, you have the right to write whatever you want. Actually, I'm not
very religious as I'm sure you can guess, as I feel it holds humanity back
somewhat. Anyway, after reading your newest article on Harry Potter, I still
think you miss the point of the story. Would it be alright if I emailed my
views to you a little later? And sure, put my letter on your site, but
please refer to me as Seeker. Till next time, your friend,
From Greg:
I just felt compelled to write you. I
was browsing the web, and I came across your abhorrent web site. In the
brief time I have to write you I can only justify certain distains. First,
your obvious attempt to commercialize your website with Harry Potter
references is tantamount to what you are chastising. By using such obvious
tactics you make yourself no better than people who…and I quote your site
“lie and cheat when it serves their purpose”….
Going through the obviously tenuous list of twelve, there are entries that
have absolutely no relevance to Harry Potter and only are, at best, remotely
connected. I can only point out the most obvious disconnection that you have
with…. what you deem reality….. Example….number ten; God tells us to "train
up a child in the way He should go." Only at the last two words of your
inconsistent paragraph do you throw in the words Harry Potter…. God doesn’t
exsist because…oh, Harry Potter.
In summation, I think you need help, and the only reason I’m taking these
few, relaxing moments out of my life is to tell you there is no god. In fact
“god” was created by the politicians of ancient history to control and tax
the people.
The biggest evil of all time is organized religion, not Harry Potter. Just
give it a rest!
I can understand,
Greg, why the article made so little sense to you. There are two main
reasons:
1.You have been
misinformed. Please see this chart:
Biblical versus Cultural
Christianity
and
Brave New Schools, Chapter 2
2. You see reality
from an entirely different perspective. The following Scripture reminds
us how impossible it is for those who don't know God to understand His
love and wisdom:
“'Eye has not seen,
nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man
The things which God has prepared for those who love Him.'
But God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. For the Spirit
searches all things, yes, the deep things of God. ... Now we have
received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from
God, that we might know the things that have been freely
given to us by God." 1 Corinthians 2:9-12
If you would like to
understand why I believe and write as i do, please see
What it means to be a Christian
From Vicki: I want to say "God bless you!" for your faithful stand for right and
against evil. Don't ever
become discouraged or afraid. If we are ashamed of our Lord, He will be
ashamed of us.
We only become persecuted (by other's acts or words) if
we are touching them in some way with the truth.
You get many negative comments regarding your stand against the snares
of satan, but I believe the Holy Spirit brings these dear writers (of
negative comments) to your site so they can hear the truth. They may
not want to admit it now, but the Holy Spirit will continue to strive
for their souls and bring to their minds the things they read here.
Time is growing short and I pray we can all be shining lights for our
God in Heaven and be faithful to the end. Please keep the faith and be
strong, dear friends in Jesus.
Visit
www.bibleuniverse.com today!
Anonymous:
Your site is horrible. You say people
shouldnt watch harry potter for dumb reasons. First off, who #%$#
are YOU to say if people should watch something or not. You are saying that
magic is not real. LOL a "God" that is all powerful and set natural laws for
the world is real? It makes me sick people like you. You say what god wants
and try to push your opinion to others, but i dont push my views on anyone.
You have no right. I bet if an ATHIEST group came public trying to ban the
bible from being sold, you would be VERY OFFENDED.
OKAY IM DONE
No, I wouldn't be
personally offended. Even today, many Christians in China bravely face
torture and imprisonment because they have dared to distribute Bibles
which are banned unless bought through government-regulated churches.
Since the death and resurrection of our Lord, Christians have joyfully
endured persecution rather than betray the One they know.
Please also remember
that our website was first written for those who share our desire to
know and follow Jesus. As far as I know, no one is forced to visit us.
Would you prefer to see our "right" or "freedom" to share our beliefs
with others in America be terminated?
From Kimberly
(25 yrs. old, F.Y.I.): I
never cease to be amazed by the reactive remarks people make in regards to your
inspired and thought-provoking articles. Every one of your articles is well-researched,
well-documented, and presented in an articulate manner - hardly what I would
call the ravings of a crazed lunatic! I'm deeply disturbed by the lack of discernment
and Biblical knowledge among many of the dissenters (ESPECIALLY those who claim
to be pastors!! Yikes) You speak the Truth as the Bible presents it, yet you
are judged as being "judgmental" by those who tell YOU not to be judgmental!!
Incredible. Although it's to be expected, it's undeserved, and I for one highly
commend you on the body of work contained within this site. I praise God for
the gifts of insight and wisdom which He has bestowed upon your ministry! I
have learned much from you, and for that I thank you.
The great irony I found in these postings is that many of your accusers' statements
personify the very qualities they supposedly find in you: "judgmental," "ignorant,"
"misguided," "closed-minded," etc. Their own words have revealed them to be
hypocrites (which is another trait on the list of offenses; point proven). They
claim to follow God, yet they base their conclusions on their own thoughts and
"feelings": "**I** like Harry Potter because **I** don't see anything wrong
with it...."
To those who are offended by the Truth, I pose this question: Did Jesus offend
people when He threw over their tables in the temple (John 2:12-25)? Definately!
Were the Sanhedrin and the Pharisees offended by the stinging words Jesus spoke
against them? Absolutely! But Jesus was more concerned with pleasing God than
He was with pleasing people; He made excuses for no one or no thing.
To this end, I pose another question: Why do people throw around the word "intolerant"
as though it's a bad thing? Is it wrong to be "intolerant" of those things which
are not of God? I'm reminded of one other such Person Who was hated for His
uncompromising stance and "intolerant" views of the world. For being thrown
into this much-derided category, a person should be glad; they're in good Company!
It's clear that people mistake God's patience for tolerance. God doesn't *tolerate*
anything which is contrary to His Word, although He does show exceeding *patience*
in granting us ample opportunities for repentance. People need to remember that
God is not only Love. One only has to do a superficial reading of the Bible
to see examples of God's holy, righteous wrath being used against those who
knew the truth, yet contemptuously refused to obey.
__________________________________________________
From
"a Christian that likes to read
Fictional stories:" Hello. I'm a sixteen
year old girl that goes to church, follows Christ, believes in the word of God,
been saved, and I read and watch Harry Potter. I dont understand what is so
wrong about these books and movies. To me they are just for imagination. I understand
what is the difference and there isnt anything wrong with me. I'm not satanic.
I do not study witch craft or wicca. I do not believe that Harry Potter is real.
Harry Potter has not gotten in the way of my path to Christ. It just a story.
If you want to ban Harry Potter why dont u ban
all of the cartoons that children watch because I know they all have something
to do with magic. I've seen disney movies that have magic in them and I have
been watching them since I was young. If you closely read Harry Potter there
isnt anyway these books can show witchcraft because it doesnt tell anyone how
to do the spell or whatever. It just happens. Also if you read in the books
they always have Christmas. I dont think they would celebrate Christmas if they
werent celebrating the birth of Jesus since thats the day he was born.
In our postmodern times,
what do most people think about during Christmas? Jesus and what He did
for us, or presents, parties, food and decorations? Across America, nativity
scenes are being banned, while Christ-less celebration are promoted. That
kind of Christmas fits in well with pagan beliefs -- especially since the
Christmas tree and other highlights celebrated during the winter solstice
were pagan from the beginning.
Harry also has a godfather which may suggest
a baptism. I think if a child believes that these fictional characters are real
they may have some problems because its just a book or movie! Actually
I was saved in the middle of reading the 2nd Harry Potter book.
In Europe, godfather
and godmothers illustrate old tradition that have little Christian meaning
for the masses.
If you haven't already
read "Twelve
reasons not to see Harry Potter
movies," please
study it -- and look up the Scriptures. You will find better answers there
than I could summarize here.
Here are some Scriptures
that show God's view of the imagination:
Imagination
I would like to ask you
a couple of questions. Could you share your testimony of how you became
a Christian as you were reading about Harry Potter? Could you also tell
me what it means to be a Christian? And finally, who is Jesus Christ to
you?
I posted the rest of your
letter on the Star Wars page.
Anomymous:
Have you even read Harry Potter? Harry Potter
is about children cooperating together in friendship and love to fight evil.
How is that wrong for children? Does God not approve of children who are influenced
to be kind to their friends and overcome obstacles hand-in-hand? While there
may be witchcraft and magic to support the fantasy genre, Harry Potter in NO
way encourages any satanistic practices. It's not like Harry Potter has a burning
cross on his forehead and claims to be the anti-christ and proclaims he will
destroy the world.
There are far worse things that oppose religion that children are exposed to,
yet you only have the ability to pit against the most popular (and most innocent)
out of all of them?
You should be more open to other views
that the world offers; being ignorant and closed minded as to automatically
label something 'satanistic' because the kids can fly on broomsticks is ridiculous.
Have you read Lord of the Rings? Do
you know what 'Angel Sanctuary' is? How about
Dungeons &
Dragons
or Xenogears? Games, shows, that children are all watching and playing -- but
you don't notice unless its on a big screen, do you?
It's probably a futile effort to try and persuade zealous people, but I have
expressed myself. You can reply if you'd like, but if you're going to argue
about things I can already predict you will say, don't bother.
From
James:
While some
argue that Harry Potter and his friends demonstrate friendship, integrity and
honesty, they actually model how to lie and steal and get away with it. Hold
on, Steal? Wow, yeah... once again, my friends, you've walked into a place where
common sense in nonexistant, where flammable and inflammable mean the same thing,
you've entered "the stupid zone" ok, that was misinformation. they never stole
anything. Well, for the sake of progression in literature, i'd like to point
out that they never stole anything, and as for lying, "Hi, Welcome to the 21st
century, i'm cookie, i'll be your host for the next 996 years." Not that i agree
with lying, but still, it happens all the time and as a "beleiver in god" i
personally strive to avoid that at all costs (cliche). but still, is it that
this is all the work of satan? or does somebody have a problem with AOL Time
Warner, the people behind all this?
To answer your comment about stealing
I would like to quote Kenneth S.
McCormick, who wrote the following. Keep in mind, there are many more
serious examples in later books:
The writer said she could find no
instances of stealing in the first book of the series. For the record,
instances of stealing may be found
on pages 64, 227, and 299.
She could find only three instances of lying. There are more, but it
is not the number of lies that is the issue; it is the way stealing,
lies, hate, revenge, and even murder are presented in a complete absence
of moral conflict. Lying exists, of course, in the plots of many children's
books, but there is normally an at least tacit recognition that lying
is a moral problem of some sort. Anyone who will thoughtfully examine
the instances of lying in the first Potter book, especially the climactic
one on page 292 which my recent editorial page critic managed to overlook,
will see that lying is not only not presented as a moral problem, but
may actually be interpreted as a virtue.
Part of the genius of the author
of the Potter books is the ability to
provide excuses in the plot
lines that can make the unacceptable appear acceptable, perhaps
even charming or cute. The result is sugar-coated poison
that goes down so easily that most people, sensibilities deadened by
long exposure to violent and amoral popular entertainment and to the
real-life bad behavior of public figures, don't even notice.
The Harry Potter books are written
for children, and that is why we
must hold them to a higher
standard than adult literature. So listen up, all you potterheads out
there, I'm only going to say this once: lying is lying and stealing
is stealing, no matter how small the lie or how cute the theft, and
it will be a sad world in which parents fail to convey these simple
truths to their kids.
Anonymous:
Are you people really this ignorant and
close-minded? You preach the gospel, you basically try to shove it down
people's throats, and you expect them to believe all this nonsense? Honestly!
Please understand that I absolutely detest organized religion, such as you
present on your web page. Don't tell people what to believe, what to feel,
how to act. That's not being a Christian, that's been a dictator.
Did we force you to
visit our site and read that article? Would you prefer that freedom
to share one's beliefs on the Internet be banished?
I recently read your "12 Reasons Not to See
Harry Potter Movies." I wanted to vomit. IT'S A MOVIE, THEY ARE MOVIES!!!
If people really have a problem with discerning reality from fantasy, then
they have serious mental problems. You are the exact same kind of people
that blame TV, video games, and music for all the bad in America these day.
Please! I have watched TV since the day I was born. I've listened to music
for as long as I can remember, and I listen to everything from Jazz, Classical,
and Instrumental, to Rap, Hip Hop, Alternative and Rock. I've played video
games since the days of the Atari 2600, and none of them have ever made
me want to go kill someday, or perform violent or illegal acts....
Movie are not evil, they're entertainment.
Get over it, and get over yourselves. Find something move constructive to
do with your time. Stop worrying about what other people believe, because
you'll have no impact on that. Take a good look at yourselves, and try to
see what's so special about you that you can make a web site like this.
God will still love me, even if I see a movie with magic in it. Remember,
it's only special effects, just like God used to help Moses free his people
from Remises. It was nothing but "special effects." You may think you are
Godly, but you are not worldly, and in my opinion, you must understand both
in order to truly understand what being a Christian is.
From
Paul:
To start off, you need alife. How much do you
make a year preaching the evil deeds that Harry Potter does? Oh wait, last
time I checked the main goal of Harry Potter is to rid the world of evil,
or at least the wizard world.
I honestly thought this page was a joke at
first. You are full of __!!!! &%$#@ church going queer @#$%!
I hope you die.
Post this please. &^%$# .... no one
likes you. %$#@& and die.
From
Lisa Alvarez:
I was looking up something about the Harry Potter
films on the internet and your site came up. I have to admit that I was
bothered by it. It just seems to me that you have no faith in people being
able to make up their own minds and use their own judgement. I enjoyed
the films and the books and I just don't see how that makes me any less
in God's eyes, or any person's for that matter, than anyone else. But I
understand your position and that is your choice as watching the movies
is mine.
What really bothered me about your article
is that you quote the actors in a very misleading fashion. As if playing
the part on the set and in interviews makes them bad kids. Especially the
quote about Dudley "torturing" his cousin Harry. Yes the actor does say
it "was fun" but in the context of the interview he means the acting was
fun. He certainly did NOT mean that "torture" is fun.
Anyway, I just needed to let you know my opinion on this and I have my doubts
that anyone will actually read this in its entirety. I know your
faith in your point of view is extremely strong and I can only imagine what
your impression of me must be like. Low I imagine. If it is in fact a low
impression, then that would definately be something that I do NOT understand.
All you know about the type of person I am is by one opinion, and that fact
that I took a minute to tell you that opinion. How can someone be judged
for enjoying a movie?
I did read your letter,
Lisa, and I would be happy to post it.
I don't judge anyone
for enjoying a movie. I just try to show God's guidelines, so that Christians
came make wise choices based on His Word. Those who love Him, will surely
want to know His heart and follow His ways! And if we can see
popular entertainment through the filter of His Word, then such movies
won't confuse our faith or hinder our walk with God.
From
Nathan [Re:
Twelve reasons
not to see Harry Potter movies]:
Ha Ha, 12 reasons not to see the
harry potter films? That the best joke I have heard in a long time! I wonder
how many people have thought you were serious! I am shure that you would
agree that the Harry Potter films are very good movies (and books). I can't
wait till book 6 comes out. I here its better then any so far! Well, keep
the funnys coming.
your fellow fan
Ivy:
I was just reading one of your articles of the
Harry potter phenomenon and it is quit interesting. You see you are quite
rude to say such things about the pagan religion for I am one of them, and
for someone who knows nothing about my religion your very strong on to not
respect it as I for some strange reason I respect yours. I don't believe
in your god no, but I also do not believe in you devil either this religion
is based on the earth it self.
Its terribly rude to judge me and my people
and blame us on a "wizarding" movie that has nothing to do with any religion
for it does not speak of any kind of god or devil. It has plenty of morals
and it has opened the eyes of young kids to read and steer there minds from
video games and such items. And I believe that you feel the same way, that
we both agree that reading is much better then that. Know you may have your
options but its quite mean to talk down on something you know nothing of.
I respect what you believe in, all's I ask is that you respect what I believe
in. We have never mad a comment or proposal that we are the "soupier" ones
here, but today you have mad that comment. If I am not correct but is it
in your bible that judging is a sin I may be wrong but I do know that it
is a moral not to judge other. And since you where speaking off morals so
bluntly in this article that would make you a hypocrite. I'm quite sure
that you would delete this email and not think of it one bit. That would
just prove my point that you don't give people a chance to show there true
self. I do know that I have seen your true self and I hope that it might
change by this email, though I think it might take more for someone who
is stuck in a small box when there is so much more to people then what you
think. Have you ever read any of the books? If no I pity you if yes I wonder
how you where brut up to be so hateful to something so good to today's youth
and adults alike. It has given us and imagination that is a key to survive
in this world we live in. If you do not wish to watch or read these books
then don't but please don't not ruin it for others. Sorry for saying this
but you need to be more open minded to others thoughts and beliefs.
Now I bid you fair well and may your mind expand from this one letter.
Blessed Be,
I'm sorry that you
were hurt by my analysis, Ivy. But I didn't "blame" you or anyone else
for the story that Ms Rowling has given to the world. Keep in mind,
her message has been in the public demand for several years and is being
read by millions of children around the world. It has been reviewed
and evaluated by parents, teachers and editors from diverse backgrounds
-- most of whom speak primarily to those who share their world views.
I speak mainly to
Christians, because I want to help Christians parents raise their children
to trust the God we love. Since the Harry Potter stories focus on a
supernatural force that is contrary to the power of our God, it seems
only fair that I speak some words of caution. Wouldn't you agree?
Yes, Ivy, I did read
all the books, mark them up and take notes. Then I posted my comments
on a Christian website that no one is forced to visit or read. You didn't
have to read any of it, though I'm glad you did. (I wish you would read
some of the section that tell about our wise and loving God as well.)
You wouldn't prefer
that America put an end to "free speech" and squeeze all minds into
a consensus position determined by our leaders or by the majority opinion,
would you?
From
Nancy:
This is a response to the comment from: "Anonymous:
Hello, I'm 19, and i'm a youth leader at a church of about 5 thousand
people. ... I've devoted my life to God, accepted him as my personal savior,
been baptized in water, and in the holy spirit, i am a worship leader on
two worship teams and head up the media ministries for the youth department
at my church."
There's nothing about JESUS - and nothing about serving Him as LORD! Everyone
wants a Savior to save them from hell, but FEW accept Him as LORD of their
lives, obey Him, and follow Him.
I feel sorry for "anonymous" being mislead and following false teachings
- especially at such a young age.
"Not every one that saith unto me, Lord,
Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the
will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day,
Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have
cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then
will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that
work iniquity." Matthew 7:21-23
From Julia
(age: 17):
I am writing concerning your articles
on Harry Potter, and let me tell you, humans make something out of nothing
all the time. Harry Potter is not dangerous for those who can differentiate
the difference between this magical world, and know not to go and copy Harry
and his little friends when they put down the book. But if you want Harry
Potter to be a bad book it can be and if you want to look for the bad and
not try to dwell on the fact that the writer wrote it, not as a bible to
be taught in schools and churches and witchcraft to be encouraged, but as
another fiction book. The characters in this book are not witches dancing
around a cauldron like in the Crucible ( I think based on real events).
They just learn how to fight the bad guys (the classic good/bad story) and
make feathers float (oh my!). The books, I admit, do get a little creepy,
especially the 5th one, but they are not supposed to be read as lullaby
stories for nighttime either. And they do suck you in, but not that you
pretend that you are the characters. When I watched Anne of Avonlea, I got
sucked into that too! Is Anne of the devil?
It wasn't written by a Christian, that I
know of, it has meanness in it (when Anne crushes the slate over Gil's head)
It is also the parents responsibility to hold their children accountable
for the type of book that they can handle. And somehow I don’t think that
house elves are real.
Difference in reality and fantasy, no? And
I don’t think that hiding children from real and non is good, because everything
is out there and out there and will find them. But if they are too young
and don’t know that these characters are make believe and that the writer
did not write these books to inspire them to become witches or wizards,
then they should not read it. If they do, then they are just fools. These
books, and shows like Buffy are for those who can handle them, and if these
naïve fools can't find a difference between God's Word and watching TV they
need to grow up until they have the mental capability of handling television
- in general - and fictional books. All Rowling did was write a few books
for enjoyment for those who can handle it. She did not write Potter to be
called the Truth!
It is fiction work. I don't understand how
when something new comes out, you the conservative to the core Christians
have to attack it and automatically assume that Satan is behind it and pick
it apart. You are so mean. Ever heard of grace? I believe that God didn't
write the Bible to be used as a weapon to Christians advantages, but to
help us and guide those who are His disciples. The Bible says, "If you are
kind only to your friends, how are you different from anyone else? Even
Pagans do that." (Matthew 5:47) How is your website different than the worldly
news channels, that is, never looking for anything positive to appreciate?
Or better yet, how is it going to lead people to Christ? Harry is not shattering
lives or my faith because I know that I'm mature enough to read about him.
Other people need to know that too when they go to read them.
Thank you for reading this huge e-mail, if
you did.
Did you read
our Harry Potter articles, Julia? It is hard to give quick answers,
but all our articles give in-depth answers
that should explain our position better than any quick answer I could
give you here. I suggest you start with these:
Harry Potter Overview,
The Power of Suggestion
and
Harry Potter & The Order of the Phoenix
- "It's just fantasy" and other deceptions
Second letter from Julia:
I did look through your articles,
and for me they are not giving me a satisfication that they are talking
about what I am talking about. I read things about compromising faith and
stuff and what I'm saying is that these books have nothing to do with faith!
The Bible is a big deal. Prophesy is a big deal. I dont know why you bother
with little deals like Potter?
Harry Potter has become a huge "deal" around the
world. Keep in mind, the issue isn't whether the book or movie is based
on fact or fiction -- or whether you can tell the difference between
truth and reality. The exciting images and suggestions in "good" fictional
or mythical stories can stir your imagination and plant memories in
your mind as easily as if they were facts. Actually, well-designed fiction
and fantasy can often bring far stronger stimuli and affect beliefs
and values far more than everyday facts and reality. Today's postmodern
youth are especially vulnerable because so many has learned to crave
strong emotional stimuli. Consider these dangers to clear, logical and
Christian thinking:
1. First they desensitize you to things that God
calls evil and tells us to avoid.
2. Second, they sear your conscience by making you
feel as if evil is normal and acceptable.
3. Third, they cause you to crave more of the same
kind of occult thrills.
4. Fourth, Potter-fans around the world are seeking
the real thing. They read more books, visit occult websites, learn how
to actually alter their consciousness, cast spells and do magic -- all
of which involves the invocation (whether they know it or not) of demonic
spirits or forces.
We get letters from a lot of youngsters who have
done it all and are terrified and oppressed by the spirits they have
invoked through their occult experimentation. They cannot stop the oppressive
new thought patters or terrifying images in their minds.
If you don't believe it, please also read
Toying with Death
and
Popular
Occultism.
As Isaiah 5:20 tells
us: "Woe to those who call evil good and good evil."
From
Anon:
Get a life you god freaks! Dont say harry potter
is a bad book and film because it isn't. Your just scared that people will
love harry potter more than god. You losers,
You are right about
one thing, Anon. Millions of people around the world do love Harry Potter
more than God. That’s so sad. They don't know what they are missing.
See
Loving evil more than good
From
Jeff Wallace:
I wanted to comment on Potter and especially
on the comment by "Anonymous" dated May 27th (19 yr old youth leader). First
in general I want to say I am shocked and dissappointed at how much of the
Christian community seems comfortable with Potter. From day one, everything
about these books and movies has been very disturbing to me. What I see
(and I believe it is part of the message you are trying to convey over and
over) is that Potter is just a part of the bigger picture of a growing occult
presence in society.
If one looks carefully at Disney cartoons,
books, movies, TV shows, etc... you see a continual stream of occult themes
over and over. Each one by itself seems innocent enough, but over time I
believe they have paved the way for ever increasing acceptance of the occult.
Now, you can add to that a growing stream of TV shows over the years like
Charm (and there are several others) that all give the same deceptive message
as Potter. That is, that so called good occultist (white magic or white
witches) are always fighting against the black occult world or black witchcraft.
It gives a completely false and misleading impression to young minds, in
particular, that there is a "good occult world" for them to experiment with.
In addition there have been a significant
increase in the last 15 to 20 years in occult movies in general (always
with this good occultist against bad occultist deceptive them). It has been
said lately (I don't have absolute proof of this) that witchcraft or Wicca
more specifically, is the fastest growing religion in America (if it is
not number one, it's certainly growing in significant numbers). I want to
try here to be respectful to "Anonymous" as he is trying to be a Christian,
but I am personally concerned that too many Christians are just simply being
way too comfortable with this serious problem for our youth in particular.
We know that Satan is a master at deception,
and we know that he leads people ever slowly and cleverly into their sins.
Why are so many Christians not able to see (with the help of the Holy Spirit)
that this is a fast growing problem in society and the world? Clearly this
an area, that non believers, pagans, occultist, and anti Christians of all
stripes are very comfortable with and excited about. But all of you that
name Christ as your Savior, you should be going in the opposite direction
with all this. You should be denouncing this for what it is. Potter in particular
is clearly occultism, top to bottom. I just cannot emphasize enough, get
away from this and encourage any and all you can have influence on, to do
the same. God Bless....
Anonymous: Hello, I'm 19, and
i'm a youth leader at a church of about 5 thousand people. I've read your
views on the harry potter movies, and i'm not about to get into a debate
about them. I just have a few comments. it seems that instead of trying
talk to the people responding to your articles, all you are doing is trying
to force your own beliefs on them and prove them wrong, all your comment
sections are, are big arguments, wich I must say is NOT helping your cause
at all. and i dont care if you say your not telling people what to belive,
the fact that you argue with EVERYONE, proves you wrong.
Nowhere in the bible does our lord act in
this manner. I was especially shocked when you told a person that you wouldnt
even try to prove to them that the bible is true. I have seen the harry
potter movies and talked with pastors about it, and In my opinion, they
are completley and utterly harmless to anyone who is old enough to understand
them, the characters are children and they are not evil and they do not
lie and cheat and steal, all they do is try to help others, if there is
a lie, it is a tiny white lie or something. If you had the choice between
somone killing your whole family or lying about doing your homework, could
you honestly tell me you would let them all die? cuz thats the exact same
thing thats going on in these films.
I dont think that you are giving people enough
credit on this issue and i think that you have closed your eyes to everything
but your own point of view. I would like to know if you have read the books
or even seen the movies, and if you have, i'll bet you went into it already
knowing what you would think about it, so whats the point? I've devoted
my life to God, accepted him as my personal savior, been baptized in water,
and in the holy spirit, i am a worship leader on two worship teams and head
up the media ministries for the youth department at my church. I am halfway
through school to get an AAS degree in audio engineering so i can be full
time at my church or another church... are you telling me that I am going
to hell because I like the movies? I also think some of your verses have
been pulled out of context and I especially belive that this verse...
"There shall not be found among you anyone
who... practices witchcraft, or a soothsayer, or one who interprets omens,
or a sorcerer, or one who conjures spells, or a medium, or a spiritist,
or one who calls up the dead. For all who do these things are an abomination
to the Lord..." Deuteronomy 18:9-12
is not realevent because if we watch the movie or read the book, we are
not among those who practice those things, it is fiction and they are not
real, therfore how can they be among us??? I dont mean to be rude but these
types hardline views is just are thing that hardends non-belivers hearts
more and more and sours them on God. I really think that these type of posts
are doing more harm than good, the majority of your comments are in disagreement
with you.
I think it is great that there are christian websites out there like yours,
there is a lot of crap out there, much worse than harry potter, I think
it would be better to focus on things like, twelve reasons why not to watch
pornography movies, then there might be more positive responses. youd be
surprised at how many people dont know that its wrong. these types of articles
would ultimatley lead more people to the site. no the concept of harry potter
may not be the most tastefull, but it is not evil and it is not satanic.
theres a lot more important things to be concentrating on in this world
that wether 53 people know that you think harry potter is evil and satanic
and wrong to watch or read. I'm sorry if you feel my views are completley
warped, but once again, they are opinions, just like yours are. you always
ask people for factual evidence, but i have yet to see any from you, yes
the bible is the ultimate last word for me, but there are too many interpretations
to take a verse, say it is fact when trying relating it to a fictional movie
or book, the whole thing is just way to obscure. Its a large world out there
and theres lots of crap in it, but harry potter is not satinc and evil,
yes witchcraft is, but Harry potter itself is not witchcraft, all he is
doing are little magic tricks, making feathers float, fixing glasses, healing
sick people, and things like that, hardly evil witchcraft. anyways I gotta
run, Good luck with your website! I 'm very sorry if i sound rude, i think
its great that your website is out there. Have a great day..God Bless!
Just one question: What
do you mean by this statement? "...it
seems that instead of trying talk to the people responding to your articles...."
I thought I was talking to people. What kind of "talk" do you have in
mind?
talking and arguing are two different things,
what i see on your comments pages are arguments.
From
Ashlee Nicole Gutierrez: I'm
13 years old, and I want to say that I really love your website. I've gotten
a lot of wonderful proof about the occult off of your website. I used to
read Harry Potter books and I was just about the biggest fanatic that you
could ever find. As a result from reading the Harry Potter books, I started
watching Buffy the Vampire Slayer and reading their books. I was so fascinated
with the occult.
I've been a Christian ever since I was about
5 or 6. I have to say I was a very strong Christian when I was little because
if the Lord asked me to do something, I didn't give it a second thought.
But, then, I got away from the Lord, and that happened when I was at school,
in the 4th grade. My reading teacher brought out the book "Harry Potter
and the Sorcerer's Stone" and said that it was one of the most popular books,
and that she was going to read to us from that book from then on. Right
there, I was hooked. Soon, my father bought me the entire Harry Potter book
set and I started collecting the action figures and the movies. It seemed
like anything and everything I watched or read had some form of witchcraft,
or Wicca in it.
Just now, I was on your website and I clicked
on the page, 'Your Comments', from there, I clicked on Harry Potter. I believe
it was the first person to write on that page (Anonymous) said that no kid,
after reading Harry Potter had ever wanted to pursue witchcraft. And they
also said that you didn't disagree with that, as you had no proof. But,
I'll tell you that after reading those books, I did pursue witchcraft. Satan
really had me in demonic bondage. I heard people telling the truth about
Harry Potter and it was like I was dead to it. I made up the excuses, "It's
just fiction", or "Oh, please, those Christians are just paranoid." Those
books and all of their colleagues (Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, Sabrina
the Teenage Witch) had made me dead to God's voice.
Then, one day, my mother was reading a book
that she had gotten from one of her Christian friends. It was all about
the occult and how Jesus could set you free from it. I have to admit, Satan
was getting really jittery whenever my mother would read passages from the
book out loud to me. But, then, one day, God told me to pick up that book,
and I never picked up 'Harry Potter' or 'Buffy' ever again.
Those books are real. Satan has had this
planned out for a very long time. He knows that if he can get to the new
generation, then, he's got control of the future. The truth is that millions
of kids all over the world are thinking about getting into the occult because
of these books. People don't understand how serious witchcraft is. It's
ruined millions and billions of lives, but, because God loves me so much,
He set me free from the bondage Satan had me under.
I want to thank you for boldly speaking the
truth. I speak out against witchcraft now, and nobody wants to hear it,
but it's the truth. My mother is the pastor of The Potter's Hand Healing
Ministry and we're going to be speaking out against all of the witchcraft
that is in the town where we live, Bryan, TX. There's a lot of witchcraft
here and I would just ask you to pray for us. God promised to protect us,
but please pray for God to strengthen us and give us courage and boldness,
so we can stand against Satan and his demons. Thank you. God bless!
Thank you, Ashlee,
for taking a stand and choosing to trust and follow God. Children and
teens around the world face the same spiritual battles you faced, and
they need to hear from victorious Christians like you who can point
the way to truth and freedom.
Anonymous:
I just wanted to thank you for providing me with one of the funniest things
I have ever read. I laughed! I cried! I am writing about your articles on
the Harry Potter books.
I can't say why, but I find it funny that
someone could take a childrens' book and claim that they expose kids to
occult practices and the like. I have never even heard of a child who started
practicing "witchcraft" just because he or she read a Harry Potter book.
While I understand you do not claim this either, you basically claim that
the potential is there and that the books are immoral.
Harry is a fifteen-year-old boy. His friends are fifteen too. It's normal
for fiteen-year-olds to start being more rebellious. You start questioning
ideas and authority. Everybody goes through this stage in life. Harry Potter
doesn't make this look "cool" as you say. It isn't cool. It isn't okay.
It is, however, part of life. And of course his relationships are going
to be more fragile and darker. Harry is growing, and that's just a part
of growing up whether you are a fictional character or not.
I know this letter won't change your minds but I felt compelled to write
it anyway. Harry Potter has gotten thousands of kids to get away from the
TV and Video Games, and for that we should be thankful. I wish you could
just look at them as good books..good stories that will over all have very
little effect on society at all. Thanks again for making me laugh.
You see reality from
one perspective, I see from another point of view. You can't see from
my perspective without knowing my Lord. If you would seek and find Him,
you would understand my concerns. This page might be a place to begin:
What
it means to be a Christian
From Chelsea
("a strong and devote follower
of Jesus Christ"):
Harry Potter is not satanic!!!!!!!! Harry Potter is the best book in
the world!! There is nothing wrong with it! You can say that
it has witchcraft sure, but that's what makes it a fantasy book. Harry Potter
teaches kids the values that everyone should use. Be loyal to your friends,
have courage, stand up for what you believe in, and always follow your heart.
But God tells
His people to choose friends who love Him, not to stay loyal to those
who delight in other gods and forces -- even in the imagination. We
are to "stand up" for God's truth and refuse to compromise -- even give
up our lives rather than deny our wonderful God! He also tells us that
our hearts are naturally rebellious and wicked, so we must choose to
trust Him and His Word, not our feelings and imagination. Please check
these Scriptures that back up what I just said:
Your heart and
Choose friends wisely
and Imagination.
For all you people that say that anyone who
reads Harry Potter is satanic and is sinful, I have to say I resent that,
being a strong and devote follower of Jesus Christ. Sure they do spells
and charms, but it's a fictional book!! The spells are not meant to hurt
people (most of the time) and they aren't using voodoo dolls on their enemies.
Harry Potter and his friends use their spells to defeat evil. They're just
trying to make their world a better place. If you had to kill an evil person
to help make the world a better place then you would! The witchcraft is
used for good not evil.
You can say that it teaches kids to lie, but the characters don't lie 24/7.
When they lie it's to protect their friends or someone that they care deeply
about. That's called being loyal.
It's also called moral
relativism, pragmatism (the ends justify the means) and rationalization.
If someone came up to you and asked you if
your friend stole something or whatever, you wouldn't rat out you're friend
and go yes he/she stole ... you can find them hiding at my house. NO! You
would lie and protect your friend, that's exactly what the characters in
Harry Potter do they're loyal to each other, try it sometime.
Plus, Harry Potter teaches kids to read!! Which would you rather have your
7 year old doing, sitting watching pornography on T.V. or reading a good
book that teaches him/her values that can be used every day.
We don't condone either!
Christian parents need to teach their child to make wise, not foolish
choices.
I know I would rather have my kid reading
even if does have little witchcraft in it. It just teaches the kids to use
their imagination a little bit more. Would you not let your kid watch Barney
because he can use magic to show his pals stuff? Kids today are exposed
to so much violence, profanity, and other stuff that 50 years ago was an
outrage, that our worlds is becoming a terrible place to live in.
Please read
Twelve reasons
not to see Harry Potter movies
So to conclude, if you think Harry Potter,
a book about a young boy fighting against all odds to save the world written
by a single mother trying to support her family, is a bad influence, why
don't you pick it up and read it! Oh and by the way, in the book muggles
are defined as "Non-magical people" not "those boring, blinded, and biased
humans who either don’t believe in the world of witches or who despise it
as evil" please change that on your site!
In today's newspapers
and magazines where the word "muggles" has been adopted as part of our
postmodern language, it usually means just what I wrote, Chelsea.
From Torey:
Seems a lot of Christians bashing
Harry Potter out there. That seems to go on a lot with Christians, bashing
whatever they don’t like or think is ‘appropriate’ for people.
I was raised a Christian. Thank God I got out and had enough sense to have
an open mind and look at other religions. I have studied many religions
just for the sake of wanting to know what others believe.
I have my own set of beliefs now, not totally Christian either. I have a
set of beliefs that embrace both the Old Religion (Witchcraft), and Christianity.
Torey, you would
fit right into the universal spirituality promoted by the United Nations.
More and more people are choosing to follow that path. It's far
more compatible with the world, with postmodern thinking, with globalism
and with today's entertainment than Christianity. In fact, I wrote a
book about the new spiritual blends designed to please the world. See
A Twist of Faith
Now before you go talking about something
you know nothing about, you might go and take a look as to where Witchcraft
comes from:
Ireland, Scotland, and England. Witchcraft was in these countries BEFORE
Christianity ever came there. The bible was re-written to include verses
with the word “Witch” and “Witchcraft”. If the Christians had the bible
before the Romans conquered Ireland and England (The Scottish were never
under Roman rule), then why did the words change? Because the Christians
changed them to conveniently persecute the Witches! The “Christian Holidays”
are all based on NON Christian Holidays! Heck, even the “birth of Jesus”
is a fraudulent date. Doesn’t it just seem too odd that the non-christian
holiday; Yule, falls on December 21st and the “Birth of Christ” falls on
December 24th ?!
Witchcraft also came
from Africa, Babylon, Middle East, Polynesia and Asia. Witchdoctors
mixed potions, extracted psychedelic "medicine" from plants, altered
their consciousness, invoked demons, cast spells on their enemies, and
caused their tribes or communities to live in fear on every continent.
During the
last fifty years, their reputation has been whitewashed and re-marketed
to the thrill-seeking West. People buy it, because few know the true
history of occultism. Please read
Role-Playing Games & Popular
Occultism
I agree that Christians
have blended pagan celebrations with Biblical history and traditions
-- just as you and others are synthesizing diverse religions today.
There is nothing really new under the sun. History just keeps repeating
itself.
The fact that witchcraft
existed before Jesus gave His life for us doesn't diminish His gift
or power. Remember, our eternal God has always existed. The fact that
He would choose to enter our world as a man, then die on the cross to
set us free, becomes all the more significant when we realize that He
conquered the forces behind witchcraft and other manifestations of the
occult world. As He did 2000 years ago, He invites anyone in bondage
to those forces to trust in Him, call on His name, follow His way and
discover true freedom in Christ.
The truth is, that the bible has been re-written
according to men in power, and is not “the word” as it is said to be.
There is plenty of
evidence that counters your "truth", Torey. What evidence do you have
to back your belief?
Christians have NO RIGHT to tell anyone else
what to believe. That is why we have FREEDOM OF RELIGION in the United States.
We don't TELL people
what to believe. We share what we believe, and all who choose to come
and read at our website are free make up their own mind. [See
What it means to be
a Christian]
I am all for Harry Potter bringing people
to look into REAL Witchcraft. Why not? You have Christians out there shoving
your beliefs down anyone’s throat who don’t even want to hear what you have
to say right? Everyone has a right to explore any religion they wish to.
It’s absurd that someone should automatically label someone else a christian.
I’ve seen it too many times.
From M. Jones:
I came across a link to your page
today, the one where you give 12 reasons not to see any of the Harry Potter
movies.
I really felt compelled to write to you and give you my viewpoint on your
stance concerning this (and I assume other movies of this genre). My very
strong belief is that your attitude towards the Harry Potter movies is extremely
misguided and under certain circumstances, can be very dangerous as well.
The reason I say your viewpoints could be dangerous is because I don't see
any real separation from you concerning what is entertainment and what is
reality. Based on the reasons you are providing not to see this movie, it
seems clear to me that if given you're way, you would ban many forms of
entertainment that are associated with fantasy and magical subject matters.
This would most certainly be a major infringement on all of our civil rights
to free speech, and would in all probability lead to futher restiction of
rights that we have come to enjoy.
Mr. Jones, where I
have suggested banning any form of entertainment?
I am simply exercising
my Constitutional freedom to share my opinion with those who choose
to come to our website. I have never suggested that any form of entertainment
-- no matter how distasteful and unhealthy -- should be banned. I don't
expect the world to agree with me, for the world rejects the God I love.
On the other hand,
it seems to me that you might like to see my freedom limited
and my "dangerous" views banned. I realize that they have offended you,
but if America would ban all views that offend someone with contrary
values, no one would be free.
I also feel as if you are not giving near
enough credit to anyone, children included, to distinguish between fantasy
and reality. Reasons 2, 3 and 8 in particular are quite frankly, very ignorant
in their statements. To suggest that a movie such as Harry Potter would
have such power to sway young minds "to the dark side" is ludicrous and
narrow minded.
I based my statements
on actual research done by social scientists. You can find some of those
published studies in
Harry
Potter and the Power of Suggestion,
Popular Occultism
and
Harry Potter and Dungeons & Dragons
What kinds of facts
and studies validate your conclusions?
Something you might be forgetting in all
of this, is that we as humans need fantasies.
We do?
In whatever shape or form they come in, it
is a release from our everyday lives and is something to be enjoyed and
not something anyone needs to feel guilty about. Obvious exceptions to that
of course, but certainly not with a movie as harmless as the Harry Potter
series.
How about learning
to enjoy real life? The world God has created is far more exciting that
all those artificial, man-made fantasies you love. Myths and fantasies
are like donuts and candy. They may give you a boost of energy when
you first eat it, but that kind of sugar-high doesn't last long. What's
worse, it satisfies your appetite with junk food, builds a craving for
more empty calories, and dulls your desire for what your body and mind
really needs.
Instead of escaping
reality by immersing your mind in fantasy, go for a hike, climb a tree,
lie on your back and delight in the tall trees and clouds in the sky.
Examine a flower, a leaf, a trail of ants -- and thank the Creator for
the matchless nature all around you.
Perhaps that suggestions
doesn't appeal to you. Many who have fed their minds with occult thrills
lose the ability to delight in God and His beauty. If so, you can always
ask Him to open your eyes once again to His wonders. In the long run,
His reality is far more satisfying and peace-producing that your fantasies.
I can only say that it is a very good thing
for the vast majority of people in this world, that people with your viewpoint
are not in a position to set policy on what we can and cannot do with our
lives. As I believe (at least in America anyway) that should such a viewpoint
be made into law, it would not last long because of the tremendous revolt
more rational and common sense minded people would initiate against such
a law. And of course, this is also why there should always be a separation
between Church and State. Simply, what are your beliefs, are your beliefs.
What are mine, are mine. Nobody has the right to try and force others to
accept their belief system, should that other person not want to accept
them.
One last thing. If you were wondering, I do believe in God. I do not conform
to any particular religion, but my belief in God remains.
P.S. Growing up I was big fan of horror\scifi\fantasy movies and entertainment,
as many children are, and I certainly could make the distinction between
fantasy and reality. With just a few exceptions (and there always are exceptions
to just about anything), I believe all children can do the same.
From Mei Bug:
Hi, i was reading your harry potter
articals, i don't know if you are the one's who put that all together but
i have one thing (ok maybe more than one) but you are all out of you minds!
Reading harry potter books opens my mind,
and teaches me things (good things, not bad) and just a reminder to all
of you, though, god may not want people to practice witchcraft, but he would
like you to accept everyone and everything.
He does? Where did
you read or hear that, Mei Bug?
The God I know, has
shown us a lot of things that blind us to the truth, distort our understanding
and get in the way of His best plan for us. Therefore He tells us to
carefully evaluate the culture around us so that we can choose what
is good for people, not what is blocks our relationship with Him. Consider
these verses from His Word:
When to judge or not to judge
you can't change a person, only they can
change themselves. Besides What's it to you if they like Harry Potter?
If I didn't care about
people, we wouldn't have this website. Nor would I spend so much time
doing research and writing. If I only cared about myself and my family,
it wouldn't matter what others did with their minds and lives.
And another reminder, it's not real witchcraft?
Do you know what REAL witchcraft is? Abviously NOT! Being a a harry potter
fan myself, I THINK that you guys (who made thise site bashing harry) need
too accept whats going on around you and open you minds.
I probably know a lot more about witchcraft
-- its history, its effect on cultures, its effect on the environment,
the terrors of occult oppression and possession, etc. -- than most contemporary
Wiccans today. The majority have bought a nice-sounding lie -- and they
ignore the fear and the bondage that has accompanied witchcraft through
the ages.
As for the reality of the witchcraft in Harry
Potter, see
Harry Potter Overview
From Japie Grobler (South
Africa): [This
statement is part of his response to a pastor's endorsement of the Harry
Potter myths]
To compare these books with children's stories
like Snow White and the others you list (some I have not read) is ludicrous.
Was the stepmother not identified as the wicked witch in Snow White and
the Seven Dwarfs? This is not found in the Potter series. So-called
white and black magic come from the same wicked and evil source.
Your opinion on the following please: A fantasy club starts up which
adults as well as children can join. At this club they are exposed
to fantasy flights about all kinds of sexual deeds and behaviours.
Or another one that leads people in fantasy flights of all kinds of violence.
Would you condone these? Would you let your children join these?
Wait now dear reverend----these are only clubs where people are taught how
to indulge in fantasies. Why won't you allow you child to read the
sexual fantasy letters that I am sure can be found in the letter columns
of any sexual magazine, like Playboy and Penthouse for instance? Surely
these can do no harm as they are only fantasy! ...
It is common in these books for children to use their imagination to visualise
and create what they want. Listen to Anton LaVey in the Satanic Bible:
"Children, not knowing nor caring if they possess artistic skill or other
creative talents, pursue their goals through the use of imagery of their
own manufacture...Imagery can be manipulated, set up, modified, and created,
all according to the will of the magician, and the very blueprint that is
created by imagery becomes the formula which leads to reality...If you
have material desires, you must gaze upon images of them---surround yourself
with the smells and sounds conducive to them---create a lodestone which
will attract the situation or thing that you wish." (The Satanic Bible,
Avon Books, New York, 1969:124-125)
To read the rest of Japie
Grobler's
editorial, click here Japie
Grobler
His website url:
http://www.gksa.org.za/kies
From
Ivy:
I was just reading one of your articles
of the Harry potter phenomenon and it is quit interesting. You see you are
quite rude to say such things about the pagan religion for I am one of them,
and for someone who knows nothing about my religion your very strong on
to not respect it as I for some strange reason I respect yours. I don't
believe in your god no, but I also do not believe in you devil either this
religion is based on the earth it self. Its terribly rude to judge me and
my people and blame us on a "wizarding" movie that has nothing to do with
any religion for it does not speak of any kind of god or devil.
Ivy, I can understand
why you feel offended, but I didn't intend to judge you personally.
I didn't even know you. I was writing about a belief system, not about
people.
Since only those who
have trusted our God are able to understand and follow His guidelines,
others will naturally see His standards as too hard to follow. That's
why I continue to point out that my critiques are written for Christian
families, not all others. Those who love Him and are filled with
His Spirit welcome His guidelines, for He enables us to follow Him.
Through Jesus, they bring hope and victory, not offense and failure.
See 2 Cor
2:14
Actually,
I do know something about your religion. I have known and talked with
many who call themselves Wiccans or Neopagans. All our talks and
walks have been very friendly. I have also spent time with a thoughtful,
well educated neopagan high priest who taught me a lot about contemporary
paganism and earth worship.
You can read
about some of those encounters in our online book,
A Twist of Faith
-- especially chapters 1 and 4. I would happily
send you a copy as a gift, if you are interested.
It has plenty of morals and it has opened
the eyes of young kids to read and steer there minds from video games and
such items.
Ivy, the world of
the occult is as persuasive in the Harry Potter myths as it is in all
the popular occult RPGs, perhaps more so. Please see
Harry Potter Overview
And I believe that you feel the same way,
that we both agree that reading is much better then that. Know you may have
your options but its quite mean to talk down on something you know nothing
of. I respect what you believe in, all's I ask is that you respect what
I believe in. We have never made a comment or proposal that we are the "soupier"
ones here, but today you have made that comment. If I am not correct but
is it in your bible that judging is a sin I may be wrong but I do know that
it is a moral not to judge other. And since you where speaking off morals
so bluntly in this article that would make you a hypocrite.
There are two sides
to the Biblical view of judging, Ivy. As you say, we are not to judge
each other, since only God knows our hearts. But we are told judge ideas,
philosophies and beliefs in order to see and avoid all compromise or
deception. Please read these verses from the Bible:
When to judge or not to judge
I'm quite sure that you would delete
this email and not think of it one bit. That would just prove my point that
you don't give people a chance to show there true self. I do know that I
have seen your true self and I hope that it might change by this email,
though I think it might take more for someone who is stuck in a small box
when there is so much more to people then what you think.
Have you ever read any of the books?
How could I analyze
and quote from these books if I didn't read them? I pray that you would
try to understand my values as I have tried to understand today's pagan
values. And remember, we don't force anyone to come to our website.
People come freely. All we can do is to offer hope, truth and lasting
joy to all who know -- or are willing to seek -- our wonderful God.
If no I pity you if yes I wonder how
you where brut up to be so hateful to something so good to today's youth
and adults alike. It has given us and imagination that is a key to survive
in this world we live in. If you do not wish to watch or read these books
then don't but please don't not ruin it for others. Sorry for saying this
but you need to be more open minded to others thoughts and beliefs.
Now I bid you fair well and may your mind expand from this one letter.
Blessed Be, Ivy
Kelley:
l have been to your sites on numerous occasions,
and I have noticed many, many things that I'm am completely and utterly
appalled by. You claim yourselves to be devoted servants of God, but I can't
help but wonder if you have ever laughed or smiled at anything. Or just
read or watch a movie, and have no religious thoughts.
I can't help but think that by being so devoted to the word of God that
you forget some very important things.
That people all people are equal, and by a person being a Christan and a
Harry Potter fan or a rock music fan or a Veggie Tales fan or even a homo-sexual,
does not make you "less of a Christian", nor does it make you evil.
By reading your site, you all come off as closed minded, homo-phobic, and
dis-respectful to other religions. I respect your opinions, yes, but being
so devoted to God and his word, does not make you "more of a Christian"
than the rest of us. God loves everybody.
And in reality, in order to be a good person and to go to heaven, you need
to:
A) Believe in a form higher than the human race
B) Live your life right (i.e. do good, be charitable, and open minded)
Harry Potter, is nothing but fiction, and you by making it in to something
else are being hypocritical.
Kelley, adults as
well as children "feel" as though Harry Potter and the world of Hogwarts
is real. Read
some of their quotes in
Harry
Potter & The Order of the Phoenix
and see for yourself. They identify with the wizard's experiences
and absorb the lessons he learns in actual occult magic.
And since they love this virtual world of the occult, they read the
books over and over. But you probably know that.
Then please
look at this chart which shows the parallels between real magic and
the teachings at Hogwarts: Harry
Potter Overview
Yes, the Harry Potter series is part of me,
but if I do good and pray, does that make me bad person? If I listen to
darker rock from time to time, and yet live my life right, am I a bad person?
If I respect homosexuals, and non-Christians, am I a bad person? If I put
religion in the back of my mind, and watch a movie or read a book, and just
enjoy the plot or story, does that make me a bad person?
Am I a sinner or a "Christian", by just having interests?
Apart from the gift
of forgiveness and redemption Jesus Christ offers through the cross,
all of us are sinners, Kelley. None is good enough to be in His family,
walk with Him and share in His triumphs.
The Bible tells us
that "we have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God." But
if you are willing to trust Him, confess your sins, accept His gift
of the Holy Spirit, He will change your heart and set your free to follow
Him. Please see
What it means to be
a Christian.
Anonymous:
The letter from April and your reply made me wonder about
something that's been pestering me for years: is it a sin to imagine sexual
fantasies that are completely fictitious and don't involve real people?
You said: "The same would be true of
imagined sexual experiences. Remember what Jesus told His disciples: '...
whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery
with her in his heart.'" Matt 5:28
If it is a sin I'll stop doing it. Presumably that
would probably rule out hentai and other animated porn, and that would prevent
me from putting any sex scenes in fiction stories (I used to do that, but
I don't think I could now). I really don't want to do anything that is sinful
because even if it feels good at the time it will turn on you later, like
booze and other drugs. (If I hadn't drunk liquor and wine for "fun" while
I was at SFSU in the mid-90s, I wouldn't have had to have invasive surgery
in 2000 and I'd still have all my body parts.)
Yes, it would violate God's
wise guidelines, but it also hurts you. A lot of research has been done
on the damage caused by pornography and sensual images. Please read
Are Campus Pornography Courses Sexual Abuse?
and
Genesis 8:21
Thank you, dear one,
for being so willing to turn your life around (that's the meaning of
the word "repent") and follow God. I am confident He will enable you
to follow His way and enjoy the sweetness and peace of His presence.
See
Philippians 3-11-13
From April:
Okay, I've
read the Harry Potter books, all of them up to date. I've read so many Christian
articles that put them down. You look at the spells and divination, but
there is so much more to the books. There are not many books where children
can really relate to the character.
That fact make the
forces and practices taught by the books all the more enticing and believable,
April.
Children understand
Harry; they understand him putting up with bullies, making friends, and
being left in the dark because adults believe that they cannot possibly
understand. Imagination is not a sin.
You are right.
Imagination
by itself -- like thinking -- is neutral. Its rightness or wrongness
depends on what you imagine. For example, if you, through your imagination,
enter into some of Harry's occult experiences and share some of his
thrills, you would be disobeying God. The same would be true of imagined
sexual experiences. Remember what Jesus told His disciples:
"... whoever
looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with
her in his heart."
Matt 5:28
I believe that
children need to know what is real and what is fake.
It doesn't matter,
April. As I have said many times, a well-written fantasy or science
fiction can be far more effective in changing beliefs and values than
ordinary facts. If the book evokes strong feelings and causes the reader
to identify with the characters, the reader will remember the message
and probably accept (or "feel good") about its conclusion.
I believe that
the books should be discussed with children to make sure that they understand
that the world of Harry Potter is completely fictional, but that there is
real witchcraft out in the world. They do need to know that God states clearly
that witchcraft, divination and the like are great sins. But letting a child
dream about flying and escaping 3-headed dogs, is that really so bad? Is
it wrong for children to dream about fantasy so long as they know truth?
Magic is not something to rely on, and children know that. Children who
are brought up to know Christ, will know that God is the only true thing
to rely on. Children who were never taught to rely on God, will not be persuaded
nor dissuaded to come to God because of Harry Potter.
I believe you would
find answers in
Twelve reasons
not to see Harry Potter movies
and
Harry Potter Overview
Will you put down
all fictional magic? I have seen books in Christian bookstores about how
Lord of the Rings is a good book (Finding God in the Lord of the Rings),
but is Gandalf not a wizard? Does he not cast spells? He's a good wizard
but Saruman the wizard is bad. I remember adults in my church telling me
when I was a child that I should not be allowed to watch My Little Ponies
or The Smurfs because they were magical. Would you take the condemnation
of fictional magic to those lengths?
I would agree with
the adults in your church, April. It's not a matter of condemning anything.
I'm not suggesting that pagans or non-Christians avoid those shows.
But they are almost certain to distort and distract from God's truth.
As for Tolkien, please read
Tolkien's Lord of the Rings: Truth,
Myth or 'Discovered Reality"?
From JP:
if there is a problem with the Harry Potter
books then Americans should also ban, the original Dracula, Frankenstein,
The Wizard of Oz, The Invisible Man, Dr, Jekly and Mr. Hide, The Lord of
the Rings, The Sword of Shanara, all the Greek classics such as Homer, the
Iliad, etc...and about 10,000 other book titles. Plus ban all the movies
that have strange creatures, magic, etc; movies like Gremlins, Men in Black,
Sinbad, The Titians, Superman, Batman, Spiderman, The Hulk, Willow, and
a thousand other movies...
i just cannot believe the stupidity of some
people. these are novels, fantasy stories, one no more "learns" from these
books than one "leans" from the comic strips. these are novels. if novels
are now considered to be textbooks, then Americans should start to ban all
the books with hideous murders in them, many with a touch of some form of
magic like Steven Kings books, etc. Why not also be concerned with the thousands
of novels and movies that show impossible science! Ban Star Trek, ban Flash
Gordon, Ban Star Wars, Ban The X files, ban all the x-mass stories...hey
lets burn all books except the bible!
i really despise Christians, they are the
ones doing this -- they are narrow minded, think that they are right and
everyone else is wrong (despite the fact that all factual evidence shows
that they are 100% wrong) and that you, me, and the rest of the world
must obey what they say or else. yet they have not one shred of evidence
that they are right, moreover, they are the most fractured, divided, unorganized,
screwed-up, nonsensical religion on the planet - these people should be
more concerned with the fact that they are living in la-la land, i.e. an
adult mind that believes in the Christian story is not living in reality.
JP, would you please
send me some of that "factual evidence shows that they are 100% wrong"?
I would love to see it.
By the way,
we have never suggested or encouraged book banning. We only share the
kind of information that helps families make factual and wise choices
themselves. Please read Harry
Potter & The Order of the Phoenix - "It's just fantasy" and other deceptions,
Harry Potter and the Power
of Suggestion and Movie
Magic and Unconscious Learning.
it is Christians that murdered millions of
innocent people during their inquisitions, murdered millions that believed
differently during the Crusades, murdered some of the greatest minds in
science because their findings went against the bible...
True Christians
-- those who love Jesus Christ and follow His ways -- didn't murder
or torture people. See
Biblical versus Cultural
Christianity. But religious institutions,
whether a distortion of true Christianity or any other religion, are
filled with ordinary people whose human nature demonstrates the same
self-centered and cruel tendencies as the rest of the world.
ironically one can buy a gun in the US as
easily as buying a pair of shoes, but Christians want to ban Harry Potter
books - morons! Yet they do not know that Easter is a pagan holiday,
(Easter is the god of fertility and the egg is one of the symbols); the
x-mass tree is also from a pagan religion, as are many of the customs and
symbols used in Christianity - morons - maybe THEY should start to read
some of the books they want to ban.
See our
article on
Earth Day Joins Easter
as a scientist i usually pay no never mind
to their ignorance - but at times i get irate by the fact that these people
are the epitome of voodoo-hoodoo thinking, then they go around telling everyone
else what is reality. seriously, what they believe in just shocks me as
an adult - talk about fantasy. the difference is, the rest of us can distinguish
fact from fiction, but they can't, and actually live in their minds in a
fictitious world.
Anonymous:
Hi, was just linked to your page about Harry
Potter. I would like you to know that I think you are ABSOLUTE idiots. Harry
Potter has opened the minds and imagination of thousands of children. Maybe
you should try opening your own minds and STOP being close minded. So I
just wanted to let you know that I think you are nothing but idiots. And
I was wondering if you could just keep your feelings to yourself!!!!!!!!!!!
From Chris:
Let me start by stating that I am a Catholic and have been since I was born.
I am not a born again Christian because I never lost Christ in the First
place. I also attend a Jesuit University but I went to a public High School.
I have read all of the Harry Potter novels and have seen the first movie.
I do not find Harry Potter as a promotion for the occult and neither does
anybody else I know who have read the novels.
Don't you think that
your conclusion might be somewhat subjective, Chris? You know people
who agree with your, and I know many people who agree with me. Those
limited observations do little more than verify the old saying, "Birds
of a feather flock together."
I would like to remind those who are in charge
of this site that Harry Potter is fiction, more importantly, children's
fiction. Although the topics addressed in the books are heavier than most
in the same genre, it is nothing that teaches children to start worshipping
Satan and learning magic. It is fake.
Chris, would
you please read
ask-peter/hp-overview-1.htm
These books should not be banned for two
reasons. The first reason is that the content of these novels are no worse
than other pieces of literature. If you people could have your way, would
you also ban the Oddyssee and the Iliad, because literature like that might
cause people to go out and start making animal sacrifices to the Olympians.
We haven't suggested
that any book be banned.
The second reason is that these books are
indeed literature. They make effective use of foreshadowing and also use
archetypes, along with the themes and motifs that are reinforced throughout.
Thought the diction is middle school level, the literary technique is on
the level of any books any intro to composition class of any university.
Hopefully, within a few years Harry Potter will be standard curriculum for
High School Classes.
In short, Harry Potter is a great thing for
our society. If Harry Potter sells 10 million copies, that means 10 million
people will be reading an 850 page book rather than engaging in some more
mind-numbing activity.
Aren't there some
better ways to spend our time? If HP is "fake" as you suggested, wouldn't
it better to study something that is true and real? Or if HP does tempt
children to explore practical witchcraft (which has been documented
by many groups), wouldn't it be better to read something else -- and
just leave that mind-numbing TV off.
From
Lloyd:
I think all of this fuss about Harry Potter
and witchcraft is absolute nonsense! (FYI, I am a Chritian.)
THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS MAGIC! If it were so, then we would persue magical
solutions to world hunger, etc.
The world of Harry Potter is purely fiction. Non of it occurs in the real
world. Scientifically, it's an impossibility. Therefore, I cannot see how
you have come to your conclusions. Even if there are people who say they
practice witchcraft in the real world, their "magic" has no power. The cannot
turn themselves into animals. They cannot fly on broomsticks. They cannot
make entire houses disappear. So WHAT'S THE BIG DEAL? (It is stupid to practice
witchcraft, however.) The belief that this sort of power does exist is a
superstition. The opposite of superstition is science (that's how I think
of it). If there is magic, then prove it. If you can't prove it, it isn't
very reliable then is it.
Please read
"Ask
Peter"
and
Harry Potter Overview.
I will try to find time to post more data next week.
The only supernatural power I believe in
is the power of prayer. I.e., your brother has a terrible brain tumor which
is suddenly cured by prayer.
You believe
in God's power but you don't believe His Word? He reminds us throughout
the Bible that we are involved in spiritual warfare.
Eph 6:10-18
and Three
kinds of temptation
Anyway, lots of Christians could learn a
lot from Potter. Loyalty. Love. Good. Acceptance. This reminds me of a Bible
verse something like "how can one cast out devils in the name of devils.
Then the devil would be divided against itself."
God is not "divided
against Himself," Lloyd, but the devil is. God tells us that he was
a liar and deceiver from the beginning and his demonic servants have
always fought battles against each other. They have no love for each
other, nor for their oppressed subjects.
See
Unequal Contenders
in the Spiritual War
By similar token, how can Harry Potter be
moral and devil-worship simultaneously? Then, the devil would be divided
against himself. Harry Potter would be evil if it taught evil principles,
i.e., Voldemort was presented as good and Harry and company were presented
as evil.
His fans may think
that Harry is a "good" guy, but he certainly isn't moral by God's standard.
He lies, steal, casts dark spells to take revenge, etc. But the worst
is that he pursues and uses occult power (which God forbids) to win
over other occult forces. You can defend him all you like, but
your arguments don't change God's unchanging Word. Please read
Twelve reasons
not to see Harry Potter movies
Sorry, but I just do not believe in witchcraft.
I can't take it seriously at all.
From Kristin:
I believe that each person has
the right to choose what they believe in so I'm not trying to say what you
believe is wrong or anything. I was raised Christian and went to a
Protestant church every week. I was taught about God and had a strong
belief in him. I also read many fantasy books some which you might
consider occult.
My mom, also a strong Christian woman, always
encouraged me to read. She thought that having an imagination was
a good thing and I knew what I was reading wasn't true because my mother
taught me that. I think as long as you let your kids know what is
real and what isn't they should be able to read whatever they want.
When you don't allow them to read things like this it's like saying there's
some truth to it and that's why you don't want them exposed to that.
There is a very enticing
reality in those fantasy books, Kristin. My goal is to help parents
explain to their children how this kind of literature can distort and
dull their understanding of God. Then, hopefully, their children will
choose to read books that will really encourage and help them.
Now having said that. I am no longer
Christian. Some where along the way my beliefs changed. I practice
Wicca. Now that might upset you but it is a religion. And it
is not based on getting power and using it. It is about communing
with nature. I don't think there's anything wrong with that.
There are a lot of different religions in this world and who is to say which
one is right and which ones aren't? Maybe I am wrong. not in
what I believe. I don't believe there is anything wrong with what
I believe but it may not be the real truth, but no one knows what the real
truth is.
Maybe there is a God. I just don't
happen to believe there is. Does that make me a bad person?
I think that everyone should have the opportunity to discover for themselves
what they believe to be true. I hope that when your kids get older
they find a way to read Harry Potter and enjoy it for the good writing that
it is. I don't think that J.K. Rowling was trying to convince kids
that to beocme Pagan. She was just writing an entertaining story and
she did it wonderfully. I think you yourself are missing out on something
really enjoyable and I feel sorry for you.
I don't think I can
convince you that the Bible is truth, Kristin, so I won't even try.
Let me just tell you
that this
former skeptic once doubted the reliability of His Word. I tried to
read the Bible, but it didn't make sense to me. Then, one day, He opened
my eyes and mind -- and suddenly everything became clear. Everything
fit together. Yet, apart from the wonders of His amazing grace, I could
easily believe as you do, Kristin.
From
Lain:
I came across the 10 Reasons now to see the
Harry Potter movie. I find that quite strange...I mean hey, I'm a Christian,
a very strong one indeed. But I read Harry Potter books and watch the videos.
Well...You say it's wrong, right? I get it that in the Bible it says that
witchcraft and wizardry is wrong and that it's a great Sin to practice this.
Let me note something else to you: The Wizard
of Oz. A movie classic. There's witches in that movie and book, isn't there?
No one seemed to complain about that... What about the movie "Hocus Pocus?"
Witches on halloween. I'm not trying to prove you wrong and say that your
opinion is wrong but look here, I'm giving reasons on why it isn't bad and
it's just as good as anything else. Exceptional for opinions of course.
My spelling is bad because I'm actually quite
young. But I'm making you look at the stuff around you to see that Harry
Potter is not the only magic tv/book there ever was. I get the point that
it offended people in some sort of way with their religion...But what about
the other things? They didn't seem to mind them. Thanks for your time.
Lain, are you telling
me that the witchcraft in Harry Potter is okay because most people have
accepted the occult suggestions in the Wizard of Oz? That's not
much of an argument, and it makes no sense from a Biblical perspective.
The fact "that Harry
Potter is not the only magic tv/book there ever was," doesn't make its
popular occultism good. Instead it shows the corruption of our culture.
It also reminds us that paganism appeals to our human nature. That's
why a lot of people are turning God's values upside-down and drifting
away from His loving guidelines. See
Isaiah 5:20.
With increasing exposure
to occultism, the public is becoming increasingly desensitized to what
God warns us to avoid. People do what feels-good at the moment and don't
even try to please God. That's very sad, because when a nation
turns its back on God, God withdraws His protection and lets us suffer
the consequences. Here is a chart and picture that might help explain
my concern:
America's Spiritual Slide.
Please pray that God
show you His way. And don't just follow what the crowds do. Remember,
"Blessed is the man
who
-
Walks not in the
counsel of the ungodly,
-
Nor stands in the
path of sinners,
-
Nor sits in the
seat of
the scornful [mockers];
But his delight is in
the law of the Lord,
And in His law he meditates
day and night.
He shall be like a tree
Planted by the rivers
of water,
That brings forth its
fruit in its season,
Whose leaf also shall
not wither;
And whatever he does
shall prosper."
Psalm 1:1-6
