TO: Amit Ghate
RE: A Slight 'Quibble'

"...during the Dark Ages, Western tradition was nearly extinguished by Christianity, whose irrational doctrines rejected the importance of the individual’s happiness on earth and of the existence of a knowable world; to instead preach abject self-denial in this world and salvation in a mystical after-life." -- Amit Ghate

I suspect you are not that familiar with christianity.

Whereas I agree that the monastic orders were inclined to see and preach that approach to life, that is not what won out. It was the peoples' desire to live a well and prosper.

The monastics DID save the Western tradition by saving the learnings, carrying them through the Dark Ages; for 400 years until the Medieval Ages came.

As for the idea that christianity is opposed to people enjoying themselves, may I suggest a good Book? Check out Ecclesiastes and get back with me.

Regards,

Chuck(le)

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Posted by Chuck Pelto to Thrutch at 3/03/2006 11:11:29 AM