What is Evil? And does evil exist?

[geoff]

Honestly i read it with a literal meaning. The bible says that God is not the author of confusion, so His word would not be confusing to read either. I never once said anyone is going to hell, I am not God so I can not judge anyone bro, nor do i try to. I do study the bible ALOT lol, I love every scripture. I have had some pretty cool experiences while reading that I could share with you if you like. God even spoke to me about witnessing on here, kinda slapped me in the face. I don't try to interpret the bible, it is already very clear on what it says, before I read I pray God open my mind and give me understanding and He does.

[trini_gsr]

wow i can't believe i missed this thread. LOL yeah it was definitely a breath of fresh air up in here. this is the 1st time i've ever heard/read anything from a knowledgeable catholic! i agree with a lot of aethir's initial comments, especially about the nature of evil. hit it right on the head IMO. and you're right, it does help a lot to have a firm understanding of philosophy and historical context when contemplating this subject.

but aethir, your education on this matter is really subjective. your comment about "ppl would be still worshipping trees" gave it away LOL...that was cute, but all i will say to that is, there's a WHOLE lot more to spirituality than even catholic tradition speaks to. it's kind of like your example with Augustine and the hole filled with water. there's a cultural component to that analogy that it seems you are totally overlooking...