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Philosophy/religion

Join our Philosophy forum to discuss religion and spirituality.

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Original poster

What is God for?

13 replies

Tanzie · 24/11/2004 23:41

My 6 year old asked me this morning. I didn't have an answer for her. She has not had much in the way of religious education - DH is a Baptist (but doesn't really believe). My mother is Jewish but in denial and I was brought up C of E (sort of, but with Jewish traditions).

Any answers anyone? I don't want to be flippant or brush her off, she was serious and deserves a serious response.

OP posts:

jabberwocky · 25/11/2004 00:29

God is someone to talk to when you feel there's no one else who would understand.

Carla · 25/11/2004 00:57

JW, That's Lovely. Not particulary religious, tho dd goes to a Catholic school (and has been baptised into that religion). But that was a succinct, FAB, answer.

unicorn · 25/11/2004 01:09

totally agree there... jabberwocky..that is lovely.

If I were you I would investigate geting this been patented (or similar) as it would make a great slogan for a card/badge etc...

jabberwocky · 25/11/2004 11:06

Awwww, thanks everyone!

Tinker · 25/11/2004 11:27

I guess it depends on whether you believe in god or not in the first place. If you don't, I'd go down the "Some people believe etc" route. If you do then jw's repsonse would be useful.

JoolsToo · 25/11/2004 11:29

"God is someone to talk to when you feel there's no one else who would understand." AND no-one else will LISTEN!

its sad but a lot of us call on HIM only when we're in trouble! (I'm just as guilty as anyone)

fairyfly · 25/11/2004 11:37

Sorry i don't like that sentiment at all, it makes it sound like a last resort. Surely god is with you all the time in everything you do and listens even when others are listening.
I wouldn't say that to a child though

prettycandles · 25/11/2004 21:23

God is the world's Mummy and Daddy - he's always there and always ready for you, and, like Mummy and Daddy, he helps you to grow up and to stand on your own two feet.

mumwithnoname · 25/11/2004 22:04

god is the source of life, without Him nothing can exsistbit too deep maybe for a 6 year old?

Original poster

Tanzie · 25/11/2004 22:12

I have to admit to preferring Pretty Candles' option. I do like Jabberwocky's, but think it might be a bit too negative for a 6 year old.

OP posts:

unicorn · 25/11/2004 22:12

Tanzie, I really think the God question does very much depend on YOU and your beliefs...
so you can take an objective view as in the 'some people believe'.. or you can tell your 6 yr old what you think.

Personally, I don't think the question is so hard if you have your Own views.. but I know a pal of mine HATES it when her son asks such questions... as she doesn't have any religious roots, so is at a loss as what to say.

just be true to yourself I think.

prettycandles · 26/11/2004 15:53

I don't think that, as a parent, you have to know the answers to everything. Particularly in such a difficult subject as this - it's much easier if you have committed views (ie are religious in some way). But it's a wonderful opportunity for "let's find out together"...the local library would be a good point, and maybe the British Museum or the Museum of Mankind.

Freckle · 26/11/2004 16:02

According to DS2 (smart alec), God is someone to blame when you get into trouble - as in "God made me lose my temper and wallop my brother". As I tell him, God didn't make him do it. God gave him the choice to lose or to control his temper. He still tries it on though [sigh].

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