Erin Maxfield wrote:
"Hell" is a post-Christian Roman concept that has vague references to Gehenna. I am well aware that Judaism does not say that Hindus, Buddhists, etc. will burn in hell...but please be honest and acknowledge with me that Judaism has its own unique allocations for those of less than perfection. For instance, Judaism does not say to the pagan "you are going to hell", but it can say(s), "x behavior bars one from the World to Come." I view that as a potential "fear factor" for some, in its own way.
Erin, kindly review the forum rules and form your posts as questions -- not declarative statements.   The rule is in place due to such erroneous statements as the one above.

Christianity teaches that if you do not "believe" (have faith) in Jesus you will go to hell.   In fact many minor infractions will get you sent to hell if one is to believe the Christian bible:
anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell.  (Matthew 5:22)
“You snakes! You brood of vipers! How will you escape being condemned to hell?  (Matthew 23:33)
For if G=d did not spare angels when they sinned, but sent them to hell, putting them in chains of darkness to be held for judgment;  (2 Peter 2:4)
These are just a few -- see also Matthew 7:13, John 3:16, Acts 4:12, Romans 6:23, 2 Thessalonians 1:9, and James 1:15.

Now, Erin, find me one instance in the Jewish bible where anyone is condemned to hell.

Find me one instance where non-Jews are told they will burn in eternal torment. 

Surely you can see that there is fear mongering in threatening eternal hellfire and pain to one who simply doesn't believe something (Jesus) compared to being told to live a good life (don't be a murderer, don't steal), etc.?

Judaism further teaches that if one does do something bad it is possible to repent and be forgiven -- all of this does indeed have to do with behavior (being a good person) -- but it is not fear driven.    It is ethics and decency driven. . .

Find me one statement in the Jewish bible that states  "x behavior bars one from the World to Come."       .  It isn't there.   The Jewish bible is relatively silent on what happens to us after death -- but one thing is for certain -- it does not say "believe in what I believe or burn in eternal flames and torment."

סופי

And everything that Sarah tells you, listen to her voice. Bereshit (Genesis) 21:12
Last Edited By: Sophiee1 Mon, 27-Dec-10 09:32:47. Edited 1 times.