Approach
People often feel very strongly on religion, and spirituality. Where you stand on these things can have a huge effect on how you view your existence, and your worldview. In a lot of ways, it really can help define you.
So it makes me sad when people are dismissive, condescending, or attacking about what someone believes or doesn’t believe.
I'm also bummed out when someone of a certain belief claims something about their faith (potentially controversial) as fact and just assumes everyone will be on board with it. A common habit among people of faith, who than wonder why others attack them. I think it's a good idea to over clarify something being your own opinion, especially when talking about religion.
I would think in this instance it may have been better to try and understand why someone believes what they do, rather than attempt to prove what they believe is wrong.
No one is going to be converted/deny there faith on a Maiden forum, just like no one is going to want to listen to someone, when they haven’t felt heard.
I love debates. I love the idea of boxing with words. But I also love the idea of being sensitive to peoples beliefs, and there feelings.
Interpretations
Some really well thought out and beautiful interpretations. I always enjoy reading how other people interpret a piece of art. It often helps expand my view, and adds new appreciation to something I already enjoy.
Now lets take a look at what Bruce said about Lord of Light.
“The Lord of Light is quit literally referring to Lucifer.” And, “Trying to be a bit more even handed about this notion of Heaven and Hell.”
(Click on the video for context and exact wording. It's at 4:07)
Now, if someone were to believe in the Christian God and therefore Satan, than it’s understandable why someone might be uncomfortable with some of the lyrics in this song.
And for the record, I think a Christian perspective on the song, and Bruce’s interview, should be valid. How boring would it be if we all looked at things through the same lens?
But just as importantly, I think we need to try and see things from other peoples perspective. Ask ourselves, “are they saying that from the same world view as me? Do they mean that in the way I’m likely to interpret it?
Reactions
People are complex, and not everything they dislike or are morally opposed to, effects them in the same way.
For example. I both hate and condemn sexual violence against woman and children. I’m sure everyone here feels the same way.
When seeing it on TV, I’m not nearly as affected by the implied violence against children as I am women. Obviously I hate both, but I am much more affected when seeing violence against woman on TV, than children. My wife is the exact opposite. I often wonder why seeing the former shakes me to the core, while I’m detached with the other, simply telling myself it’s not real and just acting.
Number of the Beast has no affect one me. Moonchild does, I have a real hard time listening to it. I love Lord of Light, but find myself uncomfortable at times while hearing it. And that’s okay.
I don’t think any member of Maiden is a satanists, and if they claimed to be, I don’t think it would be in the Christian sense. I also recognize that Lord of Light is just a song. A piece of art. It can’t be evil. But it could have an affect on those who’s world view collides with it.
One think I really appreciate about Lord of Light, is it reminds me to question what I believe. And I think that’s important regardless of what your belief is. It’s always important to make sure you actually believe what you say you do, and that you believe in it for good reason, whether that be religion or atheism, or whatever else. It’s a good reminder, and I really like the song for that reason.
Tattoos, slavery, and the rest
I think this is hardly the place to get into any of that. However a lot could be said. The difference between descriptive verses, and prescriptive verses. The fulfillment of old Testament law through Jesus, and so on.. It would spiral so quickly if we tried to discuss any of this here.
