 |
Author Itotko successfully arrays multiple investigations and the questions arising from them, which are centered on the Holy Bible. The text effectively demonstrates the differences between the literal words of scripture and the ways that, over time, many readers and religionists have misinterpreted them. The author states that his thesis is not directed at any particular denomination but rather presents the wording of the Holy Bible (King James Version), challenging readers to perceive the differences between that text and the falsehoods often assigned to it.
The questioning begins appropriately with the Book of Genesis, which depicts the actions of God, the Lord God, and the Lord: are they one deity, or three? If Eden was indeed an earthly garden, where was it located? Abraham committed incest with Sarah, yet was not condemned. Does this imply that pure faith can accept human error? Extensive quotations are taken from every portion of scripture. Since Jesus blessed the bread and wine that was shared with his disciples, pronouncing them to be his flesh and blood, does this mean that Christians, after taking bread and wine blessed by their church, will automatically have their sins forgiven? The apostle Paul, while extolling faithfulness, offers clarification concerning human sin, stating that Christ's followers must in fact be "doers" of the law, not merely "hearers," and will not be saved simply by declaring themselves to have been forgiven by Christ's sacrifices for humankind. Love of one's fellow beings is always a requirement, as Paul makes clear: "...whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap."
These issues are explored in minute detail, as Itotko refers to biblical symbolism such as "dogs" (physical humans) and "feet" (the human's lowest part), which, along with other crucial aspects such as soul and mentality, must be cleansed, thereby purified, by "Christ in you." The author consistently reminds readers that actions such as washing one's feet must be seen as symbolic, and that one cannot attain heavenly status while retaining earthly remnants.
Throughout this meticulously considered work, Itotko (the chosen pseudonym for Christian writer/philosopher Cong Trong Bui) utilizes common and obscure biblical language to expound the basic premise that churches, by whatever name, often lead their constituents to believe that all that is required for salvation and uplift to a heavenly realm is to state one's belief, underpinned by attendance at regular meetings and ceremonies. This, many believe, defines faith and is sufficient to seal one's relationship with and rewards from God. The author expertly disputes these assertions using the medium of sharp questioning to evoke deeper delving among his audience. Intriguingly, he refers to spiritual aspects beyond Christianity, citing terms such as karma and reincarnation that may invite further, open-minded study among his readers. Itotko's goal is clear: he wishes to evince fresh consideration regarding the Holy Bible's literal meaning and the possibilities inherent in "Esoteric Christianity." His evidentiary viewpoint will likely challenge "veteran Christians" as well as attract those new to the religion, opening a wider pathway beyond the restrictions of commonly held, sometimes erroneous, tenets.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review