Black, White, who fuckin' CARES already.?!

[xi_o_teaz]

As I continue my surf around LJ-land, I'm stumbling across some interesting communities, personas, and whatnot. As I look at the various sites (?), I find it more than a little hilarious to see certain individuals/communities so focused on One particular side of something or another. In particular, certain spots seem to be more "Dark/Left Hand/

Comments

[masque12]

Just out of curiosity, what is your conception of what Left and Right Hand Paths mean, and what would you say is the middle path between the two? I fully agree that a lot of the groups that are dedicated to either one are kind of silly, but I view myself as LHP practitioner, and I think I have a fair grasp of why there is a distinction between the two and why it matters (to me). I'll go into my definitions later, but I'd like to know yours first, without my input.

[xi_o_teaz]

Just out of curiosity, what is your conception of what Left and Right Hand Paths mean, and what would you say is the middle path between the two?

Good Question--one not with an easy, clear-cut answer. I'm not sure that I believe that any Path is strictly one Way, and not at all The Other.

In general terms, I'd say that Right Hand Paths are Orthodox Paths. All fluffy-bunny Paths are RHP. They tend to have lots of rules, be socially-oriented, and look out for the best for the most people (altruistic). Some Key Words for RHP would include "Light, Right, Group, Orthodox, Popular, Spirit".

Left Hand Paths are your UnOrthodox Paths. Most "scary" Paths would fall here, as would those Paths that are specifically designed at dealing with this world, e.g., Tantra. They tend to be more oriented on breaking rules than establishing them, and generally focus on the individual, regardless of social implications. Some Key Words for LHP would include "Dark, Left, Self, UnOrthodox, Hidden, Secret, Flesh

[masque12]

OK, I see where the dichotomy lies. You seem to be defining LHP and RHP based on the techniques and behaviors commonly attributed to them. My definition of the two is based on the goals of the two paths. I will elaborate, and I think I'll be able to successfully explain why I think there is a significant difference between them

[xi_o_teaz]

Good summary of what I was stumbling about. I was looking at it more from a Comparative Religions viewpoint...but I like your definition (which seems similar, if a bit more definite) than mine.

Could you give examples of Traditions exemplifying them both? I mean, within the field of Chris+ianity, Chris+ianity itself would be RHP, whereas Satanism would be LHP. Would Isis worship be RHP to Set's LHP? What about other Traditions? Would "becoming 1 with the Tao" be RHP? What about Taoist Alchemy--LHP? I know you said that it has more to do with Intent or Objective, but could you give some examples from different Trad's, and why?

And I had at least one question re: The Middle Path: What about 1 (equal) Part of the Whole? I.e., A stance wherein I Desire to become a God, but also Accept my Role in the Greater Cosmic Whole???

Sorry if I don't reply as quick as I'd like...my computer access is off and on...

Looking forward to your reply.

"Know Thy Selves"'

If I might throw in my late oppinion.....

[atlas_mason]

.....if not, then I am doing it anyway