Why Do Gods Interact Only With Humans and Not Animals?
The question of why gods, if they exist, would interact exclusively with humans and not with animals has long intrigued and frustrated many.
The Existence and Nature of Gods
Some argue that if gods are not real, then it's impossible for them to interact with any beings, including humans. As someone posits, 'Easy. There are no gods. This includes that one god named God that you seem to believe in and also all of the gods you do not believe in.' This denies the existence of any divine beings and suggests that the concept of gods is a human construct.
Scriptural Foundations
However, the concept of gods and their interaction with humans is deeply rooted in religious texts. For instance, the Old Testament (OT) contains specific rules regarding the treatment of animals, indicating a divine concern for them. The New Testament (NT) also provides moral guidance on how humans should treat each other, suggesting a broader focus on human morality rather than treating animals or other species.
The Human-Animal Divide
The argument for why humans are chosen for interaction with gods is often related to the perceived superiority of humans over other animals. The notion that 'We humans are just animals' challenges this idea. Yet, proponents of religious belief maintain that humans are distinct from other animals because they are made in the image of god, which according to many interpretations, means higher mental capabilities and moral understanding.
The assertion that certain human species are closer to the image of God, such as the one mentioned as 'God's image,' introduces a complexity. It suggests a discernment among human beings, where some may be more closely aligned with divine characteristics. This could be interpreted as a way to explain why some humans can interact with gods, while others cannot.
Metaphorical Interpretations
Metaphorically, the interaction between gods and humans can be likened to the relationship between Spiderman and a child. Just as a child’s mind is susceptible to the influence of stories and narratives, so too can the human mind be shaped and manipulated by beliefs and religious teachings. In this sense, religious texts and teachings serve as a form of spiritual indoctrination, guiding humans towards a spiritual understanding.
Moreover, achieving the ability to interact with gods is seen as a journey of spiritual awakening. This path often involves purifying one's character, as indicated by the phrase 'Only humans who controlled mind and five senses have the capability to develop higher mental powers.' The scriptures like the Upanishads and Bhagavad Gita are seen as tools to facilitate this process, helping individuals to realize their divine nature during their lifetime.
Rejections and Challenges
It's important to acknowledge that from a atheistic perspective, such beliefs are often seen as unfounded. Critics argue that war, famine, and natural disasters are not evidence of divine concern, but rather the result of human ignorance and greed. They also challenge the cruelty involved in demanding animal sacrifices, as these inflict unnecessary pain on animals.
Furthermore, it's noted that war is not a human concept alone, as it can be observed in nature among various species. This undermines the idea that war is uniquely a human experience that requires divine intervention to stop.
Conclusion
The question of why gods interact only with humans, as opposed to animals, remains complex and multifaceted. It involves deep dives into human philosophies, religious doctrines, and the intricate relationship between divine and human consciousness. Whether seen as a metaphorical interaction, a journey of spiritual growth, or a challenge to the existence of a divine entity, the debate continues to be a rich area of exploration.
Regardless of one's beliefs, the examination of these ideas provides valuable insights into the human experience and our place in the world.