Changes

85:0.1 [[Primitive]] [[religion]] had a [[biologic]] [[origin]], a natural [[evolutionary]] [[development]], aside from [[moral]] [[associations]] and apart from all [[spiritual]] [[influences]]. The higher [[animals]] have [[fears]] but no [[illusions]], hence no [[religion]]. Man creates his primitive religions out of his [[fears]] and by means of his [[illusions]].

85:0.1 [[Primitive]] [[religion]] had a [[biologic]] [[origin]], a natural [[evolutionary]] [[development]], aside from [[moral]] [[associations]] and apart from all [[spiritual]] [[influences]]. The higher [[animals]] have [[fears]] but no [[illusions]], hence no [[religion]]. Man creates his primitive religions out of his [[fears]] and by means of his [[illusions]].

85:0.2 In the [[evolution]] of the [[human]] [[species]], [[worship]] in its primitive [[manifestations]] appears long before the [[mind]] of man is capable of formulating the more [[complex]] [[concepts]] of life now and in the [[hereafter]] which deserve to be called [[religion]]. Early [[religion]] was wholly [[intellectual]] in [[nature]] and was entirely predicated on associational circumstances. The objects of [[worship]] were altogether suggestive; they consisted of the [[things]] of [[nature]] which were close at hand, or which loomed large in the commonplace [[experience]] of the simple-minded [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN primitive Urantians].

85:0.2 In the [[evolution]] of the [[human]] [[species]], [[worship]] in its primitive [[manifestations]] appears long before the [[mind]] of man is capable of formulating the more [[complex]] [[concepts]] of life now and in the [[hereafter]] which deserve to be called [[religion]]. Early [[religion]] was wholly [[intellectual]] in [[nature]] and was entirely predicated on associational circumstances. The objects of [[worship]] were altogether suggestive; they consisted of the [[things]] of [[nature]] which were close at hand, or which loomed large in the commonplace [[experience]] of the simple-minded [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN primitive Urantians].

85:0.3 When [[religion]] once evolved beyond [[nature]] [[worship]], it acquired [[roots]] of [[spirit]] [[origin]] but was nevertheless always conditioned by the [[social]] [[environment]]. As [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Animism nature worship] [[developed]], man's [[concepts]] envisioned a division of labor in the [[supermortal]] world; there were [[nature]] [[spirits]] for lakes, trees, waterfalls, rain, and hundreds of other ordinary [[terrestrial]] [[phenomena]].

85:0.3 When [[religion]] once evolved beyond [[nature]] [[worship]], it acquired [[roots]] of [[spirit]] [[origin]] but was nevertheless always conditioned by the [[social]] [[environment]]. As [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Animism nature worship] [[developed]], man's [[concepts]] envisioned a division of labor in the [[supermortal]] world; there were [[nature]] [[spirits]] for lakes, trees, waterfalls, rain, and hundreds of other ordinary [[terrestrial]] [[phenomena]].

85:0.4 At one [[time]] or another [[mortal]] man has [[worshiped]] [[everything]] on the [[face]] of the [[earth]], including himself. He has also worshiped about everything [[imaginable]] in the [[sky]] and beneath the [[surface]] of the [[earth]]. [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN Primitive man] feared all [[manifestations]] of [[power]]; he worshiped every [[natural]] [[phenomenon]] he could not [[comprehend]]. The [[observation]] of [[powerful]] natural [[forces]], such as storms, floods, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earthqukes earthquakes], landslides, volcanoes, [[fire]], [[heat]], and cold, greatly impressed the expanding [[mind]] of man. The inexplicable [[things]] of life are still termed "[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Act_of_God acts of God]" and "[[mysterious]] dispensations of [[Providence]]."

85:0.4 At one [[time]] or another [[mortal]] man has [[worshiped]] [[everything]] on the [[face]] of the [[earth]], including himself. He has also worshiped about everything [[imaginable]] in the [[sky]] and beneath the [[surface]] of the [[earth]]. [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN Primitive man] feared all [[manifestations]] of [[power]]; he worshiped every [[natural]] [[phenomenon]] he could not [[comprehend]]. The [[observation]] of [[powerful]] natural [[forces]], such as storms, floods, [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earthqukes earthquakes], landslides, volcanoes, [[fire]], [[heat]], and cold, greatly impressed the expanding [[mind]] of man. The inexplicable [[things]] of life are still termed "[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Act_of_God acts of God]" and "[[mysterious]] dispensations of [[Providence]]."

==85:1. WORSHIP OF STONES AND HILLS==

==85:1. WORSHIP OF STONES AND HILLS==

85:1.1 The first object to be [[worshiped]] by evolving man was a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rock_(geology) stone]. Today the [http://www.indiadivine.org/audarya/shakti-sadhana/93592-kateri-2.html Kateri people] of southern India still [[worship]] a stone, as do numerous [[tribes]] in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_India northern India]. Jacob slept on a stone because he venerated it; he even anointed it. Rachel concealed a number of sacred stones in her tent.

85:1.1 The first object to be [[worshiped]] by evolving man was a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rock_(geology) stone]. Today the [http://www.indiadivine.org/audarya/shakti-sadhana/93592-kateri-2.html Kateri people] of southern India still [[worship]] a stone, as do numerous [[tribes]] in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_India northern India]. Jacob slept on a stone because he venerated it; he even anointed it. Rachel concealed a number of sacred stones in her tent.

85:1.2 [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rock_(geology) Stones] first impressed [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_64#PAPER_64:_THE_EVOLUTIONARY_RACES_OF_COLOR early man] as being out of the ordinary because of the [[manner]] in which they would so suddenly appear on the [[surface]] of a cultivated field or pasture. Men failed to take into account either [[erosion]] or the results of the overturning of [[soil]]. Stones also greatly impressed early peoples because of their frequent resemblance to [[animals]]. The [[attention]] of civilized man is arrested by numerous [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Old_Man_of_the_Mountain stone formations] in the mountains which so much resemble the [[faces]] of [[animals]] and even men. But the most [[profound]] [[influence]] was exerted by [[meteor]]ic stones which [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN primitive humans] beheld hurtling through the [[atmosphere]] in flaming grandeur. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meteoroid shooting star] was [[awesome]] to [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_64#PAPER_64:_THE_EVOLUTIONARY_RACES_OF_COLOR early man], and he easily believed that such blazing streaks marked the [[passage]] of a [[spirit]] on its way to [[earth]]. No [[wonder]] men were led to [[worship]] such [[phenomena]], especially when they subsequently [[discovered]] the [[meteors]]. And this led to greater [[reverence]] for all other stones. In [http://books.google.com/books?id=mEvJ557g8nwC&lpg=PA82&ots=KW3uQwbkxl&dq=bengal%201880%20meteor&pg=PA82#v=onepage&q=bengal%201880%20meteor&f=false Bengal] many [[worship]] a meteor which fell to [[earth]] in A.D. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1880 1880].

85:1.2 [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rock_(geology) Stones] first impressed [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_64#PAPER_64:_THE_EVOLUTIONARY_RACES_OF_COLOR early man] as being out of the ordinary because of the [[manner]] in which they would so suddenly appear on the [[surface]] of a cultivated field or pasture. Men failed to take into account either [[erosion]] or the results of the overturning of [[soil]]. Stones also greatly impressed early peoples because of their frequent resemblance to [[animals]]. The [[attention]] of civilized man is arrested by numerous [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Old_Man_of_the_Mountain stone formations] in the mountains which so much resemble the [[faces]] of [[animals]] and even men. But the most [[profound]] [[influence]] was exerted by [[meteor]]ic stones which [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN primitive humans] beheld hurtling through the [[atmosphere]] in flaming grandeur. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meteoroid shooting star] was [[awesome]] to [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_64#PAPER_64:_THE_EVOLUTIONARY_RACES_OF_COLOR early man], and he easily believed that such blazing streaks marked the [[passage]] of a [[spirit]] on its way to [[earth]]. No [[wonder]] men were led to [[worship]] such [[phenomena]], especially when they subsequently [[discovered]] the [[meteors]]. And this led to greater [[reverence]] for all other stones. In [http://books.google.com/books?id=mEvJ557g8nwC&lpg=PA82&ots=KW3uQwbkxl&dq=bengal%201880%20meteor&pg=PA82#v=onepage&q=bengal%201880%20meteor&f=false Bengal] many [[worship]] a meteor which fell to [[earth]] in A.D. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1880 1880].

85:1.3 All [[ancient]] [[clans]] and [[tribes]] had their [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hopi_mythology#Sacred_Hopi_tablets sacred stones], and most [[modern]] peoples [[manifest]] a [[degree]] of [[veneration]] for certain types of stones—their [[jewels]]. A group of five stones was reverenced in India; in Greece it was a cluster of thirty; among the red men it was usually a [[circle]] of stones. The [[Romans]] always threw a stone into the air when invoking [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jupiter_%28mythology%29 Jupiter]. In India even to this day a stone can be used as a [[witness]][http://books.google.com/books?id=yvNWAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA517&lpg=PA517&dq=India+witness+stones&source=bl&ots=WPFyu6lJ3D&sig=TbM1JkpnB-hU77-xIP7VACaIgV0&hl=en&ei=gr5-TPe1K4T7lwe9ip3tAw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=4&ved=0CCQQ6AEwAw]. In some regions a stone may be employed as a [[talisman]] of the [[law]], and by its [[prestige]] an offender can be haled into [[court]]. But simple [[mortals]] do not always identify [[Deity]] with an object of reverent [[ceremony]]. Such [[fetishes]] are many times mere [[symbols]] of the real object of [[worship]].

85:1.3 All [[ancient]] [[clans]] and [[tribes]] had their [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hopi_mythology#Sacred_Hopi_tablets sacred stones], and most [[modern]] peoples [[manifest]] a [[degree]] of [[veneration]] for certain types of stones—their [[jewels]]. A group of five stones was reverenced in India; in Greece it was a cluster of thirty; among the red men it was usually a [[circle]] of stones. The [[Romans]] always threw a stone into the air when invoking [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jupiter_%28mythology%29 Jupiter]. In India even to this day a stone can be used as a [[witness]][http://books.google.com/books?id=yvNWAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA517&lpg=PA517&dq=India+witness+stones&source=bl&ots=WPFyu6lJ3D&sig=TbM1JkpnB-hU77-xIP7VACaIgV0&hl=en&ei=gr5-TPe1K4T7lwe9ip3tAw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=4&ved=0CCQQ6AEwAw]. In some regions a stone may be employed as a [[talisman]] of the [[law]], and by its [[prestige]] an offender can be haled into [[court]]. But simple [[mortals]] do not always identify [[Deity]] with an object of reverent [[ceremony]]. Such [[fetishes]] are many times mere [[symbols]] of the real object of [[worship]].

==85:2. WORSHIP OF PLANTS AND TREES==

==85:2. WORSHIP OF PLANTS AND TREES==

85:2.1 [[Plants]] were first [[feared]] and then [[worshiped]] because of the intoxicating [[liquors]] which were derived therefrom. [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN Primitive man] believed that [[intoxication]] rendered one [[divine]]. There was supposed to be something unusual and [[sacred]] about such an [[experience]]. Even in [[modern]] times alcohol is known as "[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Distilled_beverage spirits]."

85:2.1 [[Plants]] were first [[feared]] and then [[worshiped]] because of the intoxicating [[liquors]] which were derived therefrom. [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN Primitive man] believed that [[intoxication]] rendered one [[divine]]. There was supposed to be something unusual and [[sacred]] about such an [[experience]]. Even in [[modern]] times alcohol is known as "[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Distilled_beverage spirits]."

85:2.2 [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_64#PAPER_64:_THE_EVOLUTIONARY_RACES_OF_COLOR Early man] looked upon sprouting grain with dread and [[superstitious]] [[awe]]. The [[Apostle Paul]] was not the first to draw [[profound]] [[spiritual]] lessons from, and predicate [[religious]] [[beliefs]] on, the sprouting grain.

85:2.2 [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_64#PAPER_64:_THE_EVOLUTIONARY_RACES_OF_COLOR Early man] looked upon sprouting grain with dread and [[superstitious]] [[awe]]. The [[Apostle Paul]] was not the first to draw [[profound]] [[spiritual]] lessons from, and predicate [[religious]] [[beliefs]] on, the sprouting grain.

85:2.3 The [[cults]] of [[Tree of Life|tree worship]] are among the oldest [[religious]] [[groups]]. All early [[marriages]] were held under the trees, and when [[women]] desired [[children]], they would sometimes be found out in the [[forest]] [[affection]]ately [[embracing]] a sturdy oak. Many [[plants]] and trees were [[venerated]] because of their real or fancied [[medicinal]] [[powers]]. The [[savage]] believed that all [[chemical]] [[effects]] were due to the direct [[activity]] of [[supernatural]] forces.

85:2.3 The [[cults]] of [[Tree of Life|tree worship]] are among the oldest [[religious]] [[groups]]. All early [[marriages]] were held under the trees, and when [[women]] desired [[children]], they would sometimes be found out in the [[forest]] [[affection]]ately [[embracing]] a sturdy oak. Many [[plants]] and trees were [[venerated]] because of their real or fancied [[medicinal]] [[powers]]. The [[savage]] believed that all [[chemical]] [[effects]] were due to the direct [[activity]] of [[supernatural]] forces.

85:2.4 [[Ideas]] about [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Hamadryad tree spirits]] varied greatly among [[different]] [[tribes]] and races. Some trees were indwelt by kindly spirits; others harbored the [[deceptive]] and cruel. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Finns Finns] believed that most trees were occupied by kind spirits. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swiss Swiss] long mistrusted the trees, believing they contained tricky spirits. The inhabitants of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India India] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siberia eastern Russia] regard the tree spirits as being cruel. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patagonia Patagonians] still worship trees, as did the early [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Semites#Ancient_Semitic_peoples Semites]. Long after the [[Hebrews]] ceased tree worship, they continued to [[venerate]] their various deities in the [[groves]]. Except in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/China China], there once existed a [[universal]] [[cult]] of the [[tree of life]].

85:2.4 [[Ideas]] about [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Hamadryad tree spirits]] varied greatly among [[different]] [[tribes]] and races. Some trees were indwelt by kindly spirits; others harbored the [[deceptive]] and cruel. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Finns Finns] believed that most trees were occupied by kind spirits. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swiss Swiss] long mistrusted the trees, believing they contained tricky spirits. The inhabitants of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India India] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siberia eastern Russia] regard the tree spirits as being cruel. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patagonia Patagonians] still worship trees, as did the early [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Semites#Ancient_Semitic_peoples Semites]. Long after the [[Hebrews]] ceased tree worship, they continued to [[venerate]] their various deities in the [[groves]]. Except in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/China China], there once existed a [[universal]] [[cult]] of the [[tree of life]].

85:2.5 The [[belief]] that [[water]] or [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gold precious metals] beneath the [[earth]]'s [[surface]] can be detected by a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Divining_rod wooden divining rod] is a [[relic]] of the [[ancient]] tree [[cults]]. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maypole Maypole], the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas_tree Christmas tree], and the [[superstitious]] [[practice]] of rapping on wood perpetuate certain of the ancient [[customs]] of tree worship and the later-day tree cults.

85:2.5 The [[belief]] that [[water]] or [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gold precious metals] beneath the [[earth]]'s [[surface]] can be detected by a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Divining_rod wooden divining rod] is a [[relic]] of the [[ancient]] tree [[cults]]. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maypole Maypole], the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas_tree Christmas tree], and the [[superstitious]] [[practice]] of rapping on wood perpetuate certain of the ancient [[customs]] of tree worship and the later-day tree cults.

==85:3. THE WORSHIP OF ANIMALS==

==85:3. THE WORSHIP OF ANIMALS==

85:3.1 [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN Primitive man] had a peculiar and fellow [[feeling]] for the higher [[animals]]. His [[ancestors]] had lived with them and even [[mated]] with them. In [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southern_Asia southern Asia] it was early believed that the [[souls]] of men came back to [[earth]] in [[animal]] form. This [[belief]] was a [[survival]] of the still earlier [[practice]] of [[worshiping]] [[animals]].

85:3.1 [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN Primitive man] had a peculiar and fellow [[feeling]] for the higher [[animals]]. His [[ancestors]] had lived with them and even [[mated]] with them. In [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southern_Asia southern Asia] it was early believed that the [[souls]] of men came back to [[earth]] in [[animal]] form. This [[belief]] was a [[survival]] of the still earlier [[practice]] of [[worshiping]] [[animals]].

85:3.2 [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_64#PAPER_64:_THE_EVOLUTIONARY_RACES_OF_COLOR Early men] [[revered]] the [[animals]] for their [[power]] and their cunning. They [[thought]] the keen scent and the farseeing eyes of certain [[creatures]] betokened [[spirit]] [[guidance]]. The [[animals]] have all been [[worshiped]] by one [[race]] or another at one time or another. Among such objects of [[worship]] were [[creatures]] that were regarded as half human and half animal, such as [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Centaurs centaurs] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mermaids mermaids].

85:3.2 [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_64#PAPER_64:_THE_EVOLUTIONARY_RACES_OF_COLOR Early men] [[revered]] the [[animals]] for their [[power]] and their cunning. They [[thought]] the keen scent and the farseeing eyes of certain [[creatures]] betokened [[spirit]] [[guidance]]. The [[animals]] have all been [[worshiped]] by one [[race]] or another at one time or another. Among such objects of [[worship]] were [[creatures]] that were regarded as half human and half animal, such as [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Centaurs centaurs] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mermaids mermaids].

85:3.3 The [[Hebrews]] [[worshiped]] serpents down to the days of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hezekiah King Hezekiah], and the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snake_worship#Hindu_mythology Hindus] still [[maintain]] friendly relations with their house snakes. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_dragon#Dragon_worship Chinese worship of the dragon] is a [[survival]] of the snake cults. The [[wisdom]] of the serpent was a symbol of [[Greek]] [[medicine]] and is still employed as an emblem by [[modern]] physicians. The art of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snake_charming snake charming] has been handed down from the days of the [[female]] [[shamans]] of the snake [[love]] [[cult]], who, as the result of daily snake bites, became immune, in fact, became genuine venom [[addicts]] and could not get along without this [[poison]].

85:3.3 The [[Hebrews]] [[worshiped]] serpents down to the days of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hezekiah King Hezekiah], and the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snake_worship#Hindu_mythology Hindus] still [[maintain]] friendly relations with their house snakes. The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_dragon#Dragon_worship Chinese worship of the dragon] is a [[survival]] of the snake cults. The [[wisdom]] of the serpent was a symbol of [[Greek]] [[medicine]] and is still employed as an emblem by [[modern]] physicians. The art of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snake_charming snake charming] has been handed down from the days of the [[female]] [[shamans]] of the snake [[love]] [[cult]], who, as the result of daily snake bites, became immune, in fact, became genuine venom [[addicts]] and could not get along without this [[poison]].

85:3.4 The [[worship]] of insects and other [[animals]] was promoted by a later misinterpretation of the [[golden rule]]—doing to others (every form of life) as you would be done by. The [[ancients]] once believed that all [[winds]] were produced by the wings of birds and therefore both feared and [[worshiped]] all winged creatures. The early Nordics thought that [[eclipse]]s were caused by a wolf that devoured a portion of the [[sun]] or [[moon]]. The Hindus often show [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=File:Udayagiri005.jpg Vishnu] with a horse's head. Many times an [[animal]] [[symbol]] stands for a forgotten god or a vanished [[cult]]. Early in [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_92#92:3._THE_NATURE_OF_EVOLUTIONARY_RELIGION evolutionary religion] the lamb became the typical [[sacrificial]] animal and the dove the [[symbol]] of [[peace]] and [[love]].

85:3.4 The [[worship]] of insects and other [[animals]] was promoted by a later misinterpretation of the [[golden rule]]—doing to others (every form of life) as you would be done by. The [[ancients]] once believed that all [[winds]] were produced by the wings of birds and therefore both feared and [[worshiped]] all winged creatures. The early Nordics thought that [[eclipse]]s were caused by a wolf that devoured a portion of the [[sun]] or [[moon]]. The Hindus often show [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=File:Udayagiri005.jpg Vishnu] with a horse's head. Many times an [[animal]] [[symbol]] stands for a forgotten god or a vanished [[cult]]. Early in [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_92#92:3._THE_NATURE_OF_EVOLUTIONARY_RELIGION evolutionary religion] the lamb became the typical [[sacrificial]] animal and the dove the [[symbol]] of [[peace]] and [[love]].

85:3.5 In [[religion]], [[symbolism]] may be either [[good]] or bad just to the extent that the symbol does or does not displace the [[original]] [[worshipful]] [[idea]]. And symbolism must not be [[confused]] with direct [[idolatry]] wherein the [[material]] object is directly and [[actually]] [[worshiped]].

85:3.5 In [[religion]], [[symbolism]] may be either [[good]] or bad just to the extent that the symbol does or does not displace the [[original]] [[worshipful]] [[idea]]. And symbolism must not be [[confused]] with direct [[idolatry]] wherein the [[material]] object is directly and [[actually]] [[worshiped]].

==85:4. WORSHIP OF THE ELEMENTS==

==85:4. WORSHIP OF THE ELEMENTS==

85:4.1 [[Mankind]] has [[worshiped]] [[earth]], [[air]], [[water]], and [[fire]]. The [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_64#PAPER_64:_THE_EVOLUTIONARY_RACES_OF_COLOR primitive races] venerated springs and [[worshiped]] [[rivers]]. Even now in Mongolia there flourishes an influential [http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CBIQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.asiafinest.com%2Fforum%2Flofiversion%2Findex.php%2Ft236271.html&rct=j&q=river%20cults%20of%20mongolia&ei=Qth-TI2LN8GclgfP6ejsAw&usg=AFQjCNHxWjy3PqhcfhrbiBnSluwQQ0K2ag&cad=rja river cult]. [[Baptism]] became a [[religious]] [[ceremonial]] in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Babylon Babylon], and the [[Greeks]] [[practiced]] the annual [[ritual]] bath. It was easy for the [[ancients]] to [[imagine]] that the spirits dwelt in the bubbling springs, gushing fountains, flowing [[rivers]], and raging torrents. Moving [[waters]] vividly impressed these [[simple]] [[minds]] with [[beliefs]] of spirit animation and [[supernatural]] [[power]]. Sometimes a drowning man would be refused succor for [[fear]] of offending some [http://homepage.mac.com/cparada/GML/RIVERGODS.html river god].

85:4.1 [[Mankind]] has [[worshiped]] [[earth]], [[air]], [[water]], and [[fire]]. The [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_64#PAPER_64:_THE_EVOLUTIONARY_RACES_OF_COLOR primitive races] venerated springs and [[worshiped]] [[rivers]]. Even now in Mongolia there flourishes an influential [http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CBIQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.asiafinest.com%2Fforum%2Flofiversion%2Findex.php%2Ft236271.html&rct=j&q=river%20cults%20of%20mongolia&ei=Qth-TI2LN8GclgfP6ejsAw&usg=AFQjCNHxWjy3PqhcfhrbiBnSluwQQ0K2ag&cad=rja river cult]. [[Baptism]] became a [[religious]] [[ceremonial]] in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Babylon Babylon], and the [[Greeks]] [[practiced]] the annual [[ritual]] bath. It was easy for the [[ancients]] to [[imagine]] that the spirits dwelt in the bubbling springs, gushing fountains, flowing [[rivers]], and raging torrents. Moving [[waters]] vividly impressed these [[simple]] [[minds]] with [[beliefs]] of spirit animation and [[supernatural]] [[power]]. Sometimes a drowning man would be refused succor for [[fear]] of offending some [http://homepage.mac.com/cparada/GML/RIVERGODS.html river god].

85:4.2 Many [[things]] and numerous [[events]] have [[functioned]] as [[religious]] [[stimuli]] to different [[peoples]] in different ages. A [[rainbow]] is yet [[worshiped]] by many of the hill [[tribes]] of India. In both India and Africa the rainbow is thought to be a gigantic [[celestial]] snake; [[Hebrews]] and [[Christians]] regard it as "the bow of promise."[http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Genesis#Chapter_.9] Likewise, [[influences]] regarded as beneficent in one part of the world may be looked upon as malignant in other regions. The east [[wind]] is a [[god]] in South America, for it brings rain; in India it is a [[devil]] because it brings dust and causes drought. The [[ancient]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bedouins Bedouins] believed that a [[nature]] [[spirit]] produced the sand whirls, and even in the times of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] [[belief]] in nature spirits was strong enough to insure their perpetuation in [[Hebrew]] [[theology]] as [[angels]] of [[fire]], [[water]], and [[air]].

85:4.2 Many [[things]] and numerous [[events]] have [[functioned]] as [[religious]] [[stimuli]] to different [[peoples]] in different ages. A [[rainbow]] is yet [[worshiped]] by many of the hill [[tribes]] of India. In both India and Africa the rainbow is thought to be a gigantic [[celestial]] snake; [[Hebrews]] and [[Christians]] regard it as "the bow of promise."[https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Book_of_Genesis#Chapter_.9] Likewise, [[influences]] regarded as beneficent in one part of the world may be looked upon as malignant in other regions. The east [[wind]] is a [[god]] in South America, for it brings rain; in India it is a [[devil]] because it brings dust and causes drought. The [[ancient]] [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bedouins Bedouins] believed that a [[nature]] [[spirit]] produced the sand whirls, and even in the times of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moses Moses] [[belief]] in nature spirits was strong enough to insure their perpetuation in [[Hebrew]] [[theology]] as [[angels]] of [[fire]], [[water]], and [[air]].

85:4.3 Clouds, rain, and hail have all been [[feared]] and [[worshiped]] by numerous [[primitive]] [[tribes]] and by many of the early [[nature]] [[cults]]. Windstorms with thunder and lightning overawed [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_64#64:1._THE_ANDONIC_ABORIGINES early man]. He was so impressed with these elemental disturbances that thunder was regarded as the [[voice]] of an angry [[god]]. The [[worship]] of [[fire]] and the [[fear]] of [[lightning]] were linked [[together]] and were widespread among many early [[groups]].

85:4.3 Clouds, rain, and hail have all been [[feared]] and [[worshiped]] by numerous [[primitive]] [[tribes]] and by many of the early [[nature]] [[cults]]. Windstorms with thunder and lightning overawed [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_64#64:1._THE_ANDONIC_ABORIGINES early man]. He was so impressed with these elemental disturbances that thunder was regarded as the [[voice]] of an angry [[god]]. The [[worship]] of [[fire]] and the [[fear]] of [[lightning]] were linked [[together]] and were widespread among many early [[groups]].

85:4.4 [[Fire]] was mixed up with [[magic]] in the [[minds]] of [[primitive]] [[fear]]-ridden [[mortals]]. A devotee of [[magic]] will vividly remember one positive [[chance]] result in the [[practice]] of his magic [[formulas]], while he nonchalantly forgets a score of [[negative]] results, out-and-out failures. Fire [[reverence]] reached its height in [http://www.pyracantha.com/Z/atarsh.html Persia], where it long [[persisted]]. Some [[tribes]] [[worshiped]] fire as a [[deity]] itself; others revered it as the flaming [[symbol]] of the purifying and purging spirit of their venerated deities. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vestal_virgin Vestal virgins] were charged with the [[duty]] of watching [[sacred]] fires, and in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century twentieth century] candles still burn as a part of the [[ritual]] of many religious services.

85:4.4 [[Fire]] was mixed up with [[magic]] in the [[minds]] of [[primitive]] [[fear]]-ridden [[mortals]]. A devotee of [[magic]] will vividly remember one positive [[chance]] result in the [[practice]] of his magic [[formulas]], while he nonchalantly forgets a score of [[negative]] results, out-and-out failures. Fire [[reverence]] reached its height in [http://www.pyracantha.com/Z/atarsh.html Persia], where it long [[persisted]]. Some [[tribes]] [[worshiped]] fire as a [[deity]] itself; others revered it as the flaming [[symbol]] of the purifying and purging spirit of their venerated deities. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vestal_virgin Vestal virgins] were charged with the [[duty]] of watching [[sacred]] fires, and in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20th_century twentieth century] candles still burn as a part of the [[ritual]] of many religious services.

85:6.1 Having [[worshiped]] [[everything]] else on the face of the [[earth]] and in the [[heavens]] above, man has not hesitated to [[honor]] himself with such [[adoration]]. The simple-minded [[savage]] makes no clear distinction between beasts, men, and gods.

85:6.1 Having [[worshiped]] [[everything]] else on the face of the [[earth]] and in the [[heavens]] above, man has not hesitated to [[honor]] himself with such [[adoration]]. The simple-minded [[savage]] makes no clear distinction between beasts, men, and gods.

85:6.2 [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN Early man] regarded all unusual [[persons]] as [[superhuman]], and he so feared such [[beings]] as to hold them in [[reverential]] [[awe]]; to some [[degree]] he [[literally]] worshiped them. Even having twins was regarded as being either very lucky or very unlucky. Lunatics, epileptics, and the feeble-minded were often worshiped by their [[normal]]-minded fellows, who believed that such abnormal [[beings]] were indwelt by the [[gods]]. [[Priests]], [[kings]], and [[prophets]] were worshiped; the [[holy]] men of old were looked upon as [[inspired]] by the [[deities]].

85:6.2 [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN Early man] regarded all unusual [[persons]] as [[superhuman]], and he so feared such [[beings]] as to hold them in [[reverential]] [[awe]]; to some [[degree]] he [[literally]] worshiped them. Even having twins was regarded as being either very lucky or very unlucky. Lunatics, epileptics, and the feeble-minded were often worshiped by their [[normal]]-minded fellows, who believed that such abnormal [[beings]] were indwelt by the [[gods]]. [[Priests]], [[kings]], and [[prophets]] were worshiped; the [[holy]] men of old were looked upon as [[inspired]] by the [[deities]].

85:6.3 [[Tribal]] chiefs died and were deified. Later, distinguished [[souls]] passed on and were [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint sainted]. Unaided [[evolution]] never originated gods higher than the [[glorified]], exalted, and evolved [[spirits]] of [[Death|deceased]] [[humans]]. In early [[evolution]] [[religion]] creates its own gods. In the [[course]] of [[revelation]] [[the Gods]] formulate religion. Evolutionary religion creates its gods in the image and likeness of [[mortal]] man; revelatory religion seeks to evolve and [[transform]] mortal man into the image and likeness of [[God]].

85:6.3 [[Tribal]] chiefs died and were deified. Later, distinguished [[souls]] passed on and were [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint sainted]. Unaided [[evolution]] never originated gods higher than the [[glorified]], exalted, and evolved [[spirits]] of [[Death|deceased]] [[humans]]. In early [[evolution]] [[religion]] creates its own gods. In the [[course]] of [[revelation]] [[the Gods]] formulate religion. Evolutionary religion creates its gods in the image and likeness of [[mortal]] man; revelatory religion seeks to evolve and [[transform]] mortal man into the image and likeness of [[God]].

85:6.4 The [[ghost]] gods, who are of supposed [[human]] [[origin]], should be distinguished from the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Animism nature gods], for nature worship did evolve a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pantheon_%28gods%29 pantheon]—nature spirits elevated to the position of gods. The nature [[cults]] continued to [[develop]] along with the later appearing [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_87 ghost cults], and each exerted an [[influence]] upon the other. Many religious systems [[embraced]] a [[dual]] concept of [[deity]], nature gods and ghost gods; in some [[theologies]] these concepts are confusingly intertwined, as is [[illustrated]] by [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thor Thor], a ghost [[hero]] who was also master of the [[lightning]].

85:6.4 The [[ghost]] gods, who are of supposed [[human]] [[origin]], should be distinguished from the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Animism nature gods], for nature worship did evolve a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pantheon_%28gods%29 pantheon]—nature spirits elevated to the position of gods. The nature [[cults]] continued to [[develop]] along with the later appearing [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_87 ghost cults], and each exerted an [[influence]] upon the other. Many religious systems [[embraced]] a [[dual]] concept of [[deity]], nature gods and ghost gods; in some [[theologies]] these concepts are confusingly intertwined, as is [[illustrated]] by [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thor Thor], a ghost [[hero]] who was also master of the [[lightning]].

85:6.5 But the [[worship]] of man by man reached its height when temporal rulers commanded such [[veneration]] from their subjects and, in substantiation of such demands, claimed to have [[descended]] from [[deity]].

85:6.5 But the [[worship]] of man by man reached its height when temporal rulers commanded such [[veneration]] from their subjects and, in substantiation of such demands, claimed to have [[descended]] from [[deity]].

==85:7. THE ADJUTANTS OF WORSHIP AND WISDOM==

==85:7. THE ADJUTANTS OF WORSHIP AND WISDOM==

85:7.1 [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Animism Nature worship] may seem to have arisen naturally and [[spontaneously]] in the [[minds]] of [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN primitive men] and women, and so it did; but there was operating all this [[time]] in these same [[primitive]] minds the [[Adjutant Mind Spirits|sixth adjutant spirit]], which had been [[bestowed]] upon these peoples as a directing [[influence]] of this [[phase]] of [[human]] [[evolution]]. And this spirit was constantly stimulating the [[worship]] urge of the human [[species]], no matter how primitive its first [[manifestations]] might be. The [[Adjutant Mind Spirits|spirit of worship]] gave definite [[origin]] to the human impulse to [[worship]], notwithstanding that [[animal]] [[fear]] [[motivated]] the [[expression]] of worshipfulness, and that its early [[practice]] became centered upon objects of [[nature]].

85:7.1 [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Animism Nature worship] may seem to have arisen naturally and [[spontaneously]] in the [[minds]] of [https://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=Paper_52#52:1._PRIMITIVE_MAN primitive men] and women, and so it did; but there was operating all this [[time]] in these same [[primitive]] minds the [[Adjutant Mind Spirits|sixth adjutant spirit]], which had been [[bestowed]] upon these peoples as a directing [[influence]] of this [[phase]] of [[human]] [[evolution]]. And this spirit was constantly stimulating the [[worship]] urge of the human [[species]], no matter how primitive its first [[manifestations]] might be. The [[Adjutant Mind Spirits|spirit of worship]] gave definite [[origin]] to the human impulse to [[worship]], notwithstanding that [[animal]] [[fear]] [[motivated]] the [[expression]] of worshipfulness, and that its early [[practice]] became centered upon objects of [[nature]].

85:7.2 You must remember that [[feeling]], not [[thinking]], was the guiding and controlling [[influence]] in all evolutionary [[development]]. To the primitive mind there is little difference between fearing, shunning, honoring, and worshiping.

85:7.2 You must remember that [[feeling]], not [[thinking]], was the guiding and controlling [[influence]] in all evolutionary [[development]]. To the primitive mind there is little difference between fearing, shunning, honoring, and worshiping.

85:7.4 Presented by a [[Brilliant Evening Star]] of [[Nebadon]].  

85:7.4 Presented by a [[Brilliant Evening Star]] of [[Nebadon]].  

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[[Category: PART III: The History of Urantia]]

[[Category: PART III: The History of Urantia]]