Absinthe wrote:
God is evil and cruel

Forgive me for being somewhat confused. image I always thought that when people said that, it was because they didn't understand what G-d was trying to say in His actions.

Thanks.
Susan


Yes and no. They say it because of a mismatch between (1) their understanding of the text and (2) their value system (ego, psycho-emotional makeup, etc).

One type of mismatch occurs when a person correctly understands the text, but then evaluates that understanding via a distorted value system that is not in alignment with God's Reality. This can lead to a sense of revulsion.

Another type of mismatch occurs when a person erroneously understands the text, and also evaluates that understanding via a distorted value system that is not in alignment with God's Reality. This too can lead to a sense of revulsion.

But there is another mismatch that can lead to revulsion. Namely, a person can erroneously understand the text, but then evaluate that understanding via a CORRECT value system that IS in alignment with God's Reality. This can lead to a sense of revulsion. However, if the person does feel a sense of revulsion, then it is due purely to the erroneous understanding of the text, not due to some defect in the person's value system (or ego or personality). Although, this person too makes a mistake if he attributes the attributes of evil and cruelty to God rather than to the erroneous understanding.

Finally, the fourth permutation is not a mismatch at all. Namely, a person can correctly understand the text, and then evaluate that understanding via a correct value system that is in alignment with God's Reality. Of course, this will never lead to a sense of revulsion.

I emphasize the words, "understand" and "understanding," to call attention to the fact that these are subjective by definition. Always pay attention to the issue at hand and ignore ad hominem attacks that attempt to discredit the speaker himself.