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Home , Ravi Zacharias

VOL. 29, NO. 4 OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2009 EDITOR: KEITH A. MORSE

Hinduism, the primary of by J. Greg Sheryl Hinduism has no identifiable the subcontinent of India, has gained founder and it does not require a absorbs all religious systems, and a firm foothold and wide acceptance in any . It tends to absorb — excludes all others, in the United States since first attract- or try to absorb — elements from maintaining the supremacy of ing significant attention in the 19th other . The conventional wis- the claims of Christ.’’1 century. Images of Hindu ‘‘holy men’’ dom is that Hinduism is the most are familiar in modern popular cul- ancient world religion. But Mark ture, due to their frequent association Albrecht writes: with those among the Hollywood, music, and literary set. And many ‘‘Modern scholarship has Americans have taken up yoga, established that the earli- which is inextricably inter- est vestiges of the Hindu twined with Hinduism, for religion are to be found in physical exercise. Some the scripture known as the churches even offer yoga Rig Veda, which was prob- classes, going so far as to ably compiled about 1500 B.C. call it ‘‘Christian yoga.’’ at the earliest. This makes Hin- duism the world’s second old- But before taking a yoga est religion after Judaism, class, the discerning Chris- which was established by tian needs to consider the God’s covenant with Abra- implications of yoga and ham, somewhere between whether it can be integrated 2000 to 1800 B.C.’’2 into one’s daily walk with the Lord Jesus. Another states: No examination of yoga’s in- ‘‘Hinduism is not really fluence and impact can exclude one religion, but many Hinduism. In his 1989 book, The religions that interact and , Walter Martin wrote: (continues on page 13) ‘‘The great English apologist and writer C. S. Lewis saw the battle Inside this Issue: lines clearly drawn. He noted Jehovah's Witnesses & the Enigma of Michael Jackson .. Page 2 that in the final conflict between religions, Hinduism and Chris- No Longer for Men Only ...... Page 3 tianity would offer the only vi- Yogananda: Purveyor of a Different Jesus ...... Page 4 able options because Hinduism 67. , Why God the Gospels, Selections from the writings of 89. See Ronald Enroth, editor, Evangelizing Permits Evil and How To Rise Above It.Los Paramahansa Yogananda. Los Angeles: Self- the : How to Share Jesus with Children, Angeles: Self-Realization Fellowship, 2004, Realization Fellowship, 2007, pg. 1. This Parents, Neighbors, and Friends Who Are pp. 45-46. book is, in the main, excerpts from the Involved in a Cult. Ann Arbor, Mich.: Vine 68. The clearly states that, ‘‘All 2-volume set by Paramahansa Yogananda, Books, 1990, pg. 21. This specific is taken unrighteousness is sin’’ (1 John 5:17). The Second Coming of Christ: The Resurrec- from the chapter on ‘‘Hinduism’’ by Mark 69. Paramhansa Yogananda, Karma and tion of the Christ Within You. Albrecht. Reincarnation. Nevada City, Calif.: Crystal 77. Ibid., pg. 2, italics in original. 90. The Second Coming of Christ: The Clarity Publishers, 2007, pg. 53. 78. Ibid., pg. 5, italics in original. Resurrection of the Christ Within You,op. 70. Winfried Corduan, Neighboring : 79. Ibid., pg. 4. cit., Vol. I, Discourse 18, pg. 308. A Christian Introduction to World Religions. 80. Man’s Eternal Quest, op. cit., 2nd 91. Paramahansa Yogananda In Memoriam: Downers Grove, Ill.: InterVarsity Press, edition, pg. 235. Personal Accounts of the Master’s Final Days, 1998, pg. 197. 81. The Second Coming of Christ: The op. cit., pp. 12, 32. 71. Man’s Eternal Quest, op. cit., 2nd Resurrection of the Christ Within You,op. 92. Ibid., pp. 93-95. edition, pg. 300, italic in original. cit., Vol. I, pg. xxi, italics in original. 93. Ibid., pg. 68, emphasis added. 72. Autobiography of a Yogi, op. cit., chapter 82. Man’s Eternal Quest, op. cit., 2nd 94. This book consistently takes great 49, pg. 558. edition, pg. 292. pains to make it appear that Yogananda 73. Mohandas K. Gandhi, Autobiography: 83. Autobiography of a Yogi, op. cit., chapter knew about and gave intimations of his The Story of My Experiments with , 34, pg. 362, italics in original. coming demise. However, from what he translated by Mahadev Desai. New York: 84. The Second Coming of Christ: The said here in his speech, it certainly doesn’t Dover Publications, Inc., 1983, pg. 119. An Resurrection of the Christ Within You,op. sound like it. Otherwise, why would he unabridged republication of the edition cit., Vol. II, Discourse 68, pg. 1336. point out the premature deaths of Ameri- published by Public Affairs Press, Wash- 85. Ibid., Vol. II, Discourse 48, pg. 931. can millionaires? ington, D.C., 1948, under the title Gandhi’s 86. The Yoga of Jesus, op. cit., pg. 13. 95. ‘‘Swami Yogananda and the Self- Autobiography: The Story of My Experiments 87. Autobiography of a Yogi, op. cit., chapter Realization Fellowship,’’ op. cit., pg. 41. with Truth. 49, pg. 568. 96. The Yoga of Jesus, op. cit., pg. 20, this 74. Philip Graham Ryken, Is Jesus the Only 88. Paramahansa Yogananda In Memoriam: statement rendered in italics in the book. Way? Wheaton, Ill.: Crossway Books, 1999, Personal Accounts of the Master’s Final Days, 97. John Ankerberg and John Weldon, The pp. 10, 11, italic in original. op. cit., pg. 69. The entire text of Yoga- Facts on False Teaching in the Church. 75. Ibid., pg. 37. nanda’s short speech is given in this book. Eugene, Ore.: Harvest House Publishers, 76. Paramahansa Yogananda, The Yoga of This book contains much good biographi- 1988, pg. 5, italics in original. Jesus: Understanding the Hidden Teachings of cal material about Yogananda. g

YOGA AND THE CHRISTIAN regard themselves as Hindu, and another body — human, animal, or (continued from page 1) there are about 30 million Hindus insect. Karma is the law of cause and elsewhere in the world.’’6 effect, involving the idea that a person must somehow pay for the wrongs blend with one another. There is Hinduism does have scriptures and they have done, either in this life or no known founder of Hinduism, core beliefs. Hindu scriptures include the next. Hinduism also teaches the no creedal statements of to the four Vedas; their commentaries, sign and no agreed-upon author- called the Upanishads (also known as caste (or class) system, although some ity. In fact, one can be a good , ‘‘the last of the Vedas’’); the Hindus, such as Gandhi, opposed it. Hindu and believe in one god, Mahabharata (of which the Bhagavad Seminary professor George Braswell 3 many or no god at all!’’ Gita is a small portion); the explains: Christian researchers John Anker- Ramayana; and other lesser books. ‘‘According to the Laws of Manu berg and John Weldon state: One of the popular gods within [a portion of the Hindu scrip- tures] the caste system is justified ‘‘In its most simple definition, Hinduism’s pantheon is Krishna, the Hinduism may be defined as the main character in the Bhagavad Gita. by the belief in Karma and the religious beliefs and practices The Bhagavad Gita is sometimes transmigration of . Hindus common to India. Defining Hin- called ‘‘the Gita’’ and, as noted above, are not in their social position by duism in a more precise manner is a portion of the larger Hindu epic accident, and there is no injustice is difficult because of the wide called the Mahabharata. in being in any caste. One gets what one merits. ... The caste number of practices and teach- As far as ‘‘core beliefs,’’ Fritz Ride- 4 system still remains in India.’’9 ings it offers.’’ nour states, ‘‘There are, however, two The Oxford Dictionary of World Reli- foundational assumptions that almost Braswell further describes the five gions says Hinduism is ‘‘The major all Hindus believe without question: broad castes within Hinduism: reincarnation and karma.’’7 Christian continuing and connected religions of 1. ‘‘The Brahmin caste is the most researcher Elliot Miller adds a third: India, which have now spread privileged one. It is the protector 5 ‘‘practice of some form of yoga.’’8 throughout the world.’’ and transmitter of the Veda It also says, ‘‘About 80 per cent of Reincarnation is the belief that, after scriptures and has general over- India’s approx. one billion people death, one’s is recycled in sight of society.’’

October-December 2009 The Quarterly Journal · 13 2. ‘‘The warrior caste (Kshatriya) wrote Walden and some of his The modern day New Age move- is the governing class. The kings, other books.’’13 ment has continued the influence of princes, politicians, army, and A second factor was the rise of the Hinduism, as have such contempo- police populate this group. They mind science religions, such as Chris- rary New Age gurus as Deepak make policy, collect taxes, and tian Science and Unity, and other new Chopra and Shirley MacLaine. defend the people while recog- religions, such as Theosophy, which nizing the supremacy of the BREAKING DOWN HINDUISM borrowed from Hinduism. Brahmin in faith and moral in- Hinduism comes in a number of struction.’’ A third factor arose in 1893. L.T. varieties. John Ankerberg and John Jeyachandran describes it: 3. ‘‘The Vaisya is the third caste. Weldon explain: It includes the middle class occu- ‘‘The most memorable event that pations, including merchants, inaugurated the entry of Hindu ‘‘In America the dominant Hindu traders, teachers, and craftsmen.’’ thought into the West was the belief is called Vedanta. Of all the visit to the United States of conflicting schools of Hinduism, 4. ‘‘The Sudra class is composed Swami Vivekananda in 1893 Vedanta has had the most pro- of farmers, peasants, and manual when he took by storm the found overall influence: ‘Vedanta laborers.’’ World Congress on Religions in (‘‘the End of the Vedas’’) was the 5. ‘‘Another caste which has de- Chicago. He began his speech school which gave organized and veloped is called the outcaste or with the politically correct phrase systematic form to the teaching the untouchables. The untouch- ‘Brothers and sisters,’ which was of the Upanishads. While the ables are aliens who moved into greeted by several minutes of other schools are almost or India. They have little association thunderous applause. ... In his wholly extinct, Vedanta is still with the other four castes. They interaction with at this very much alive, for nearly all perform such jobs as washing conference, Swami Vivekananda the great Hindu religious teach- clothes, making shoes, and cre- also denied the existence of sin, ers of recent centuries have been mating the dead. They have no because all reality was one and Vedantists of one branch or an- access to the religious rituals of therefore there could be no final other.’ Since the texts of Vedanta the other castes.’’10 distinction between right and are contradictory and impossible to interpret uniformly, various Most, if not all, Hindus are vegetar- wrong. He is supposed to have made the memorable statement schools of Vedanta have arisen. ians and many believe in and practice The dominant Vedantic school in astrology. Hindu religion bars the ‘It is sinful to call man a sinner.’ America is called advaita or the slaughter of cattle and the consump- He substantiated his position by ‘non-dual’ school. This belief tion of beef.11 Regarding astrology, positing the ultimate unity of all teaches that there is only one one source states, ‘‘In Hinduism, deci- things, including apparently con- 14 impersonal God called . sion-making on all serious matters flicting beliefs.’’ (e.g. the date and time of a wedding) Brahman alone is real; everything The next prominent guru was else is considered a dream of and on many everyday matters is Swami Yogananda,15 who came to the referred to astrology.’’12 Brahman — an ‘illusion.’ ... This United States in 1920, bringing his idea that the world is an illusion HINDUISM COMES practice of kriya yoga with him. He ‘hiding’ Brahman is a key teach- TO AMERICA has been called ‘‘the Father of Yoga in ing of Hinduism in America.’’18 the West.’’16 Yogananda’s authorized At least three factors contributed to organization, Self-Realization Fellow- As one source says: Hinduism’s rise to prominence in ship (SRF), continues to publish his ‘‘[The Hindu philosopher] San- America in the 18th century. Concern- writings and speeches. kara summarized his system [i.e., ing the first, Ridenour says: In the latter half of the 20th century, advaita Vedanta] in a single sen- ‘‘Hindu ideas began to influence other gurus came to America. Among tence, ‘Brahman alone is real, the Western thought in the mid- them were , world is [only] appearance, at- nineteenth century when Ralph who developed the yoga technique of man [i.e., ‘‘the true self’’] is Waldo Emerson, a leading Transcendental Meditation; Bhak- nothing but Brahman.’’’19 American exponent of transcen- tivedanta Swami Prabhupada, who dentalism, steeped himself in gave impetus to the Hare Krishna And so the philosophical underpin- Hindu writings. His doctrine of movement in America; Guru Maharaj ning of what we in the West think of the ‘Oversoul’ was an expression Ji, who was associated with the Di- as yoga is this advaita Vedanta school of ... . Henry David vine Light Mission; Guru Bhagwan of Hinduism: A pantheistic belief that Thoreau, a contemporary of Em- Shree Rajneesh, whom the late cult the only thing that truly exists is the erson and fellow transcendental- expert Walter Martin said was ‘‘indis- impersonal Hindu god Brahman. Ev- ist, was inspired by the Upan- putably the preeminent Eastern guru erything, including each individual, is ishads and Bhagavad Gita when he of the 1980s.’’17 also Brahman (God).

14 · The Quarterly Journal October-December 2009 According to this brand of Hindu- ever, not all forms of yoga ‘‘involve ‘‘Yama (pronounced yah-mah): ism, man’s problem is that he has sitting in yogic postures, controlling Moral discipline, consisting of forgotten that he is God (or that God one’s breath, and concentrating on a the practices of nonharming, — Brahman — is him/her). Yoga is mantra or mandala.’’22 truthfulness, nonstealing, chas- designed to cause practitioners not tity, and greedlessness ... Niyama It doesn’t really matter whether one just to intellectually believe that they (pronounced nee-yah-mah): Self- practices a physical or relatively non- are God, but to experience that they are restraint, consisting of the five physical form of yoga, however, be- God. Yoga is also designed to cause practices of purity, contentment, cause the goal is the same for all the individual to experience the austerity, self-study, and devo- varieties. Elliot Miller explains: ‘‘truth’’ that the material world is an tion to a higher principle. Asana illusion, and that everything in ‘‘Yoga is derived from the San- (pronounced ah-sah-nah): Posture, existence is Brahman. The technique skrit word yug, which means ‘to which serves two basic purposes for accomplishing this is yoga, which yoke.’ ... In Hinduism, as in — meditation and health. does this by producing an altered many religions, union is desired Pranayama (pronounced prah-nah- state of consciousness in which the with nothing less than God or yah-mah): Breath control, which individual experiences these ‘‘.’’ the Absolute, and yoga is the raises and balances your psycho- system that Hindus have devel- somatic energy, thus boosting As one Christian publication de- oped to achieve that end. The your health and mental concen- scribes it: historic purpose behind yoga, tration. Pratyahara (pronounced prah-tyah-hah-rah): Sensory inhibi- ‘‘Our problem is not sin but therefore, is to achieve union tion, which internalizes your con- ignorance — the fact that we with the Hindu concept of God. sciousness to prepare the mind have forgotten our divinity. ... This is the purpose behind virtu- for the various stages of medita- ally all of the Eastern varieties of We have to realize our own tion. Dharana (pronounced dhah- yoga, including those we en- divinity, and yoga is the path by rah-nah): Concentration, or ex- counter in the West. This does which to experience God-con- tended mental focusing, which is not mean it is the purpose of sciousness. Salvation, in other fundamental to yogic meditation. words, is a matter of perception every practitioner of yoga, for Dhyana (pronounced dhee-yah- or realization. In this context, many people clearly are not prac- nah): Meditation, the principal perceiving is not a cognitive ac- ticing it for spiritual reasons but practice of higher Yoga ... Sama- tivity. It is not a matter of merely to enhance their physical dhi (pronounced sah-mah-dhee): 23 intellectually knowing or logi- appearance, ability, or health.’’ Ecstasy, or the experience of uni- cally deducing our divinity, but Certain forms of yoga that don’t tive consciousness in which you rather transcending our cogni- particularly involve physical poses are become inwardly one with the tive, rational consciousness and 27 bhakti yoga, jnana yoga, and karma object of your contemplation.’’ experiencing a higher state of yoga.24 One source briefly delineates expanded consciousness, which As one source explains, hatha yoga these non- (or less overtly) physical is believed to be God, or our true is ‘‘the first five steps of the eight-step forms of yoga in this way: self [also known as self-realiza- process’’ of raja yoga and ‘‘includes tion].’’20 ‘‘Bhakti Yoga: the Yoga of devo- external preparations for transcending tion. ... Jnana Yoga: the Yoga of physical and psychological processes ‘‘To sum up, then, salvation in 28 wisdom. Karma Yoga: the Yoga of the body.’’ We are then told: Hinduism is found in the realiza- of self-transcending action.’’25 tion, perception or experience of ‘‘When this [i.e., the first five our so-called true nature, which One well-known form of bhakti steps] is done, one is to begin the takes place when we attain a yoga is practiced by the Hare Krishna three internal steps of raja-yoga. ‘higher’ state of consciousness. sect, with its devotion to the Hindu The first five steps of Yoga have We attempt to reach this state of deity Krishna. Classical yoga is called been conscious external methods consciousness through manipula- Raja (‘‘royal’’) yoga or ashtanga of preparation for the internal 29 tion of the nervous system, and (‘‘eight-limbed’’) yoga. Hatha yoga is goals of raja-yoga.’’ the techniques that help us do a subset of raja yoga, as is the The occultic nature of raja yoga is this — techniques developed relatively non-physically exerting revealed in a discussion of ‘‘Raja- over several millennia — are yoga technique of Transcendental yoga’’ given by The Oxford Dictionary found in yoga.’’21 Meditation taught by the late Mahar- of World Religions. It states in part: ishi Mahesh Yogi.26 When most Americans think of ‘‘The last three stages [of raja yoga, they may think of various Raja (classical or ashtanga) has eight yoga], dharana, dhyana, and sa- bodily poses and postures and/or steps or ‘‘limbs.’’ One introductory madhi, collectively termed breathing techniques associated espe- yoga text briefly describes these eight samyama, are stages of concen- cially with hatha yoga. This is, in- steps and their intended results as tration very closely connected. ... deed, a physical form of yoga. How- follows: Through practicing samyama the

October-December 2009 The Quarterly Journal · 15 yogin also develops various Miller adds: have gone so far as to claim that this magical powers (vibhuti or sid- is a ministry the Lord has given them. ‘‘Hatha (physical) yoga is not so dha) such as knowledge of his Among these is Brooke Boon, author overtly religious, but Hinduism own previous births ... telepathy of the book Holy Yoga: Exercise for the lies just beneath its surface and ... knowledge of the past and Christian Body and Soul40 and Susan often surfaces in unanticipated future ... and levitation ... etc.’’30 Bordenkircher, author of Yoga for ways, and so it is unwise for 41 In a short entry on ‘‘Hatha-yoga,’’ Christians to practice it.’’34 Christians. Without questioning their the Oxford Dictionary also states that sincerity or their desire to serve the hatha yoga was: Likewise, in an article on ‘‘Yoga and Lord, one can still question the whole Hinduism,’’ Christian authors Vishal idea of trying to ‘‘Christianize’’ a ‘‘Originally a part of Raja-yoga as Mangalwadi and Ronald Enroth Hindu practice developed for Hindu taught by Patanjali [perhaps 2nd- wrote: purposes. 3rd centuries A.D.], but now frequently detached as a yoga to ‘‘In our view, yoga cannot be Brooke Boon, for instance, is aware seek mental and physical health. dismissed as simply another aid that there are ‘‘people for whom the Its purpose is to locate and acti- to physical fitness. Someone has idea of ‘Christian yoga’ would seem vate the cakras (centres of en- said that there is no Hinduism oxymoronic.’’42 Because of this, she ergy) and thus to raise the kun- without yoga and no yoga with- devotes a chapter in her book to dalini (dormant spiritual power) out Hinduism. Yoga’s connec- dealing with objections that Christians to life. It works especially tions to Eastern religious meta- might have to the practice of any form 35 through bodily postures (asana) physics are clear.’’ of yoga for Christians. One of Boon’s arguments for a Christianized version and control of breath A former Hindu yogi who became a of yoga is: (pranayama), uniting the ha Christian has written, ‘‘No part of (breath of the sun) with tha Yoga can be separated from the phi- ’’...yoga predates Hinduism by at (breath of the moon). The re- losophy behind it.’’36 least one thousand years. Yoga puted founder is Gorakhnath.’’31 was not created by Hindus but In a 1993 publication, an American- was indeed co-opted by Hindus In an article on ‘‘Yoga and Hindu- b orn Hindu monk named as a major part of their religion. ism,’’ the authors wrote: Palaniswami predicted: Because of this, I’ve heard nu- ‘‘In ancient Indian philosophy ‘‘A small army of yoga mission- merous variations on the theme yoga was not meant to be a aries — hatha, raja, siddha, and that yoga is inseparably bound fitness regime. Rather, it was a kundalini — beautifully trained up with Eastern religion and means to salvation or liberation in the last 10 years, is about to set philosophy.’’43 (moksha) through the isolation of upon the Western world. They Boon’s only citation to support that the soul from the body. Out- may not call themselves Hindu, claim is a Website link (www.ameri of-body experiences are still the but Hindus know where yoga canyogaassociation.org/general.html) goal of some popular forms of came from and where it goes.’’37 yoga. Later, after other schools of which does state that yoga predated 44 Indian philosophy had adopted WHAT ABOUT Hinduism. However, other sources 45 yoga, its goal was reinterpreted ‘‘CHRISTIAN YOGA?’’ are less dogmatic about that claim. Even if we grant, for the sake of as the union of the human self Because yoga’s purpose is to enable with the cosmic self, or God.’’32 argument, that yoga predated Hindu- the individual to achieve union with ism, Miller counters: So there is more to that hatha yoga the impersonal Hindu god Brahman, ‘‘What makes the promoters of class than physical exercise. Elliot in an experience called ‘‘cosmic con- Christian yoga think that pre- Miller states: sciousness’’ or ‘‘self-realization,’’ it is not too much to say that yoga is Hindu yoga was spiritually safe? ’’...many yoga teachers and advo- intended to be and is in fact a The fundamental reason why cates deliberately cover up the gateway into Hinduism itself. mixing Hinduism with Christian- spiritual nature of yoga in order ity is objectionable is because to extend its influence in secular Despite this, some Christians be- Hinduism is a pagan religion, culture, but, on the other hand, lieve that yoga can be separated from but so was the Stone Age sha- there is no shortage of yoga Hinduism, or that physical yoga can be manism practiced in the Indus teachers and authorities who divorced from spiritual yoga38 and/or Valley 5,000 years ago. This argu- openly proclaim it. ‘Why be co- that at least some Christians may ment therefore makes a distinc- vert?’ Swami Param asks. ‘Par- safely practice yoga, at least under tion without a difference.’’46 ticipants should be invited up- certain conditions and/or with certain Miller adds: front to ‘‘come study Hinduism,’’ stipulations.39 Some have tried to which is what they’re doing divorce the physical exercises of hatha ‘‘There is no evidence that raja or when learning hatha yoga.’’’33 yoga from its Hindu intentions and ashtanga yoga ... existed prior to

16 · The Quarterly Journal October-December 2009 the second century BC or there- they can’t ‘belong’ to that reli- they burn even their sons and abouts, when Patanjali set it forth gion any more than prayer can daughters in the fire to their in his Yoga Sutras. The stretch belong only to a single religion. gods’’ (Deuteronomy 12:29-31). postures that Westerners tend to The body is of God. Prayer is of A biblical example of disobedience think define yoga do not appear God. Scripture is of God. Other to this principle seems to be found in until around the fifteenth century religions may have used the tech- the life of King Ahaz in 2 Kings AD in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika. niques of yoga toward their own 16:10-16. Note that in the above Scrip- It is therefore meaningless to say ends, ends that conflict with a ture passage, the Lord warned Israel that yoga predated Hinduism Christian . They may against trying to ‘‘co-opt’’ the pagan because what we mean by ‘yoga’ have used yoga to worship cre- methods of Canaanite spirituality to clearly developed in a Hindu ation or anything in it. But in context.’’47 Holy Yoga we worship only the serve the true and living God. Creator.’’51 While religions such as Buddhism Miller states: and Jainism include yoga, one must It should also be noted that Boon ‘‘One who practices yoga is par- remember that both are offshoots of clearly that yoga is a spiritual ticipating in a system that delib- Hinduism. Additionally, yoga also is practice and not merely physical erately was designed to lead found in Sikhism, an example being exercise. She writes that some people: participants ultimately to sama- the late Yogi Bhajan, who was a Sikh dhi or union with Brahman, the ’’... think I’m trying to tell them yoga practitioner. Again, however, Hindu deity. When dealing with that yoga exercises are really just Sikhism is an attempt to synthesize a practice that is potentially ‘physical in nature’ and that they Hinduism and Islam; and, so again idolatrous, should the Christian have nothing to do with spiritu- we see yoga’s Hindu roots. have the confidence that she will ality, so yoga is not dangerous to be able to avoid those ele- One might imagine that the objec- Christians. That’s not what I’m ments?’’54 tion to yoga is merely on the grounds saying. Yoga absolutely does of its Hindu origins and history. open a person up to spiritual Miller also observes: However, yoga is intertwined with influences. But in Holy Yoga, the ‘‘There are some rather sneaky Hinduism in such a way that it is only spiritual influence we are difficult or impossible to separate elements in hatha yoga that help open to is that of Jesus Christ. ... yoga from its Hindu roots. Addition- explain why enrolling in the We must completely co-opt the ally, yoga is deliberately designed to neighborhood yoga class would amazing gift of yoga for Chris- produce an altered state of conscious- be a dubious decision for the tianity. That’s what we’re doing ness in which Hindu, anti-Christian Christian. First, teachers and stu- with Holy Yoga.’’52 goals are sought and achieved, be- dents typically greet each other yond whatever physical benefits In an e-mail, Boon wrote, ‘‘Yoga is a with the Sanskrit namaste, which might also accrue to the practitioner. spiritual discipline, much like fasting means, ‘I honor the Divine 53 within you.’ This is an affirma- One short reference work defines or prayer.’’ Because, in one of the ‘‘yogic religions’’ as: above citations from her book, Boon tion of pantheism and therefore a brings up the matter of worship, it denial of the true God revealed ‘‘A term used to refer to those only seems fitting to cite the Scrip- in the Bible. Furthermore, hatha religious traditions where the ture, in which the Lord warned the yoga classes typically conclude practice of yoga is the central Israelites before they crossed into with ‘a 10-15 minute relaxation experience and the doctrines as- Canaan: period to relax the body and still sociated with it, such as karma, the mind.’ As part of this process form the basis of belief.’’48 ‘‘When the LORD your God cuts students often are given a mantra off from before you the nations It then states, ‘‘Yogic religions are to repeat in meditation or chant- which you go to dispossess, and ing. Hindu mantras are generally the main rivals to Abramic reli- you displace them and dwell in gions,’’49 which it defines as: the names of Hindu gods or their land, take heed to yourself goddesses.’’55 ‘‘Religious traditions that trace that you are not ensnared to their ancestry to the patriarch follow them, after they are de- Additionally, ‘‘The postures of yoga Abraham. The major religions in stroyed from before you, and are not religiously neutral. All of the this grouping are Christianity, that you do not inquire after classic asanas have spiritual signifi- Islam and Judaism.’’50 their gods, saying, ‘How did cance.’’56 As just one example of this, these nations serve their gods? I Miller cites the sun salutation.57 Brooke Boon, who has called her also will do likewise.’ You shall attempt to Christianize yoga, ‘‘Holy WHAT IS ‘‘OM’’? not worship the LORD your God Yoga,’’ also states: in that way; for every abomina- Anyone the least bit familiar with ‘‘The postures of yoga may have tion to the LORD which He hates yoga has heard of the term ‘‘mantra,’’ been co-opted by a religion but they have done to their gods; for and one in particular: ‘‘Om’’ — some-

October-December 2009 The Quarterly Journal · 17 times rendered as ‘‘Aum.’’58 It may be ought rather to be chosen. No So for those who desire the physical chanted by itself, or as part of a part of Yoga can be separated benefits of yoga without having to be longer mantra. According to The Ox- from the philosophy behind it.’’62 concerned for themselves (or for oth- ford Dictionary of World Religions, ers who may be influenced by them) There are fitness alternatives to ‘‘Om’’ is: about spiritual dangers associated yoga. Elliot Miller speaks very highly with yoga, there are spiritually safe ‘‘The most sacred syllable in of PraiseMoves designed by Laurette alternatives. Hinduism, which first appears in Willis, a former yoga instructor. Of the Upanisads. It is often re- these exercises, Miller writes: The Hindu practice of yoga was garded as the bija (seed) of all specifically designed to produce an ‘‘PraiseMoves is designed to ap- altered state of consciousness, in mantras, containing, as it does, proximate all of the benefits asso- all origination and dissolution. ... which the person ‘‘experiences’’ their ciated with yoga, including relax- essential identity with the impersonal Although it is made up of three ation and reduction of stress, ... connected but distinct ele- Hindu supreme deity, Brahman. To within a consistently Christian be sure, yoga seems sort of ‘‘cool,’’ ments (as sounded), the silence at context. I have thoroughly exam- its conclusion is regarded as a contemporary, exotic, and avant- ined PraiseMoves and find noth- garde. It has certainly invaded popu- fourth, expressing the attainment ing spiritually dangerous about 59 lar American culture. For all this, of Brahman/atman.’’ 63 it.’’ however, it is a pagan practice Professor Winfried Corduan ex- Miller also notes that some of the designed with Hindu, anti-Christian plains: postures in PraiseMoves are similar to goals and purposes in mind. ‘‘A notion that came out of the some yoga postures (due to the lim- Even if one does somehow person- Vedantic phase of Hinduism is ited number of ways that the body ally manage to avoid becoming influ- that the essence of Brahman can can be positioned), however: enced by the Hinduism with which be captured in the mystic syllable ‘‘She [i.e., Laurette Willis] has yoga is so intertwined, one’s practice OM. OM has no meaning as a not used any traditional yoga of yoga could become a stumbling word. Its meaning lies in its postures or gestures that have block for other Christians who might sound as it is pronounced or clear-cut associations with Hin- be spiritually weaker, less discerning, chanted. The vibrations produced duism, such as the ‘praying and more inclined to be influenced capture the essence of Brahman hands’ gesture.’’64 and/or led astray by yoga’s Hindu and put the chanter in touch underpinnings. Paul’s advice in with it and thereby with his Additionally, Miller suggests the 1 Corinthians 8:1-13 seems especially Atman-Brahman identity.’’60 exercise program ‘‘Pilates (when not appropriate here. mixed with yoga)’’65 as another spiri- The ‘‘Atman-Brahman identity’’ of tually safe alternative to yoga, al- HINDU TENETS which Corduan speaks above is the though he admits that he doesn’t Some of Hinduism’s tenets are individual’s mystical experience of know how effective or physically safe karma, reincarnation, astrology, veg- being one in essence with Brahman. Pilates is. In the words of an introductory yoga etarianism, , and idolatry. text, ‘‘Hindus consider this syllable In a chapter called ‘‘Yoga and Hin- We will briefly consider each of these: duism,’’ Vishal Mangalwadi and [Om] to be sacred and to symbolize Karma (the relentless, unforgiving Ronald Enroth wrote, ‘‘Most exercises the ultimate reality, or higher Self law of cause-and-effect). The Bible are good for us, though my physician (atman).’’61 teaches, ‘‘Do not be deceived, God is says that walking is better for me than not mocked; for whatever a man yoga.’’66 ‘‘CHRISTIAN’’ YOGA: sows, that he will also reap’’ (Gala- JUST SAY NO And, regarding the matter of spiri- tians 6:7). So the doctrine of karma Perhaps a good question to Chris- tually safe alternatives to yoga, Chris- does have some truth to it. However, tian promoters of yoga would be, tian author Michael Gleghorn has karma is an impersonal, unforgiving ‘‘Why even attempt to Christianize a written: law; whereas, God is personal and is also a God of forgiveness and second pagan practice such as yoga when ‘‘It seems to me that if someone chances. The Bible also says, ‘‘If You, there are non-pagan alternatives to wants an exercise program with LORD, should mark iniquities, O Lord, yoga for accomplishing the same physical benefits similar to yoga, who could stand? But there is forgive- physical goals that Christian yoga but without all the negative spiri- ness with You, that You may be promoters are attempting to achieve?’’ tual baggage, they should con- feared’’ (Psalm 130:3-4). One former Hindu yogi, who be- sider low-impact or water aero- came a Christian, has written: bics, or maybe even water ballet. Additionally, karma involves a be- These programs have the poten- lief that the consequences of our ‘‘If one desires to achieve tial to be just as beneficial for the behavior may require us to live addi- physical fitness only, exercises body, without possibly endan- tional lives to pay off the debt of our designed for that specific purpose gering the soul.’’67 sins. Hence, we see the necessity in

18 · The Quarterly Journal October-December 2009 Hinduism for reincarnation, so that The late founder of Campus Cru- God with all of his heart now we may atone for our actions over the sade for Christ, Bill Bright, once told prayed that Jesus of Nazareth, course of many lives until we achieve of an encounter he had with a Hindu the risen, living Son of God, perfection and liberation (moksha) student. Bright said: would come into his heart, from the cycle of rebirths (samsara). would pardon his sin and be- This is certainly a system of working ‘‘After I had finished speaking at come his Lord and Master.’’71 for one’s salvation. Contrary to the a midwestern university campus, doctrine of multiple lives and reincar- a group of students remained to In the chapter on ‘‘Hinduism’’ in a nation, the Bible teaches that ‘‘it is learn how they could become book that he authored on world appointed for men to die once, but Christians. Among them was a religions, Methodist pastor Adam after this the judgment’’ (Hebrews young Hindu lad from India Hamilton wrote: 9:27). Also Psalm 78:39 says, concern- who was pacing up and down, ‘‘The picture of heaven painted ing the Israelites, ‘‘For He remem- very angry and impatient. As we in the Book of Revelation and in bered that they were but flesh, a talked he said, ‘I resent you the words of Jesus offers us great breath that passes away and does not Christians. I resent the arrogance joy and hope. When we stand come again.’’68 The Bible also teaches with which you say that you before God, we will be asked, that we are saved by God’s grace and have the only way to God. I ‘What did you do to deserve my mercy alone and not by our works of believe that Christianity is one grace?’ Here is the answer: righteousness (Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus way, but only one way. Hindu- ‘Nothing. I didn’t do enough to 3:4-7, esp. v. 5). ism is another. Buddhism, Shin- build up any good karma from toism and others are all ways to you. I am only saved by your Astrology. God says, ‘‘You are wea- God.’ I called his attention to the ried in the multitude of your coun- mercy and love. So I’m only writings of the great Hindu holding on to your grace, your sels; let now the astrologers, the leader Mahatma Gandhi,70 who, stargazers, and the monthly prognos- forgiveness, and your righteous- for all of his devotion to his ness, and to the work that Jesus ticators stand up and save you from religion, states in his autobiogra- did for me.’ And God will say, what shall come upon you. Behold, phy, ‘It is a constant torture to ‘Welcome, my child. Enter your they shall be as stubble, the fire shall me that I am still so far from rest.’ Christians believe that burn them; they shall not deliver Him whom I know to be my when we die, we are not united themselves from the power of the very life and being. I know it is with the divine Brahman like a flame; it shall not be a coal to be my own wretchedness and wick- drop of water in an ocean. Our warmed by, nor a fire to sit before!’’ edness that keep me from Him.’ soul is distinct from God. So we (Isaiah 47:13-14). This gifted young man said that have a chance to see God face- he had once believed that Gandhi The prophet Jeremiah said, ‘‘Thus to-face, ... At the time I began was God but, of course, he no preparing this chapter, I had an says the LORD: ‘Do not learn the way longer believed this. ... He admit- of the Gentiles; do not be dismayed at opportunity to visit a family ted also that he had not found whose twenty-eight-year-old son the signs of heaven, for the Gentiles the answer to his needs, though had recently been killed. As I are dismayed at them’’’ (Jeremiah he was a devout follower of his was driving to their home, I 10:2). religion, diligent in the reading prayed that God would help Vegetarianism. The Scriptures of the sacred Hindu writings, minister through me and care for neither command nor condemn it. and faithful in his times of this family. Then I started think- Therefore, it is a choice left to each prayer and all the ritual of his ing, What would I offer them if I individual. Many Scriptures, includ- faith. He had to confess that he were a Hindu priest? What would I ing Mark 7:18-19, Acts 10:9-16,69 had never found God. I called his tell them would become of their son? 1 Timothy 4:1-5, and Colossians 2:20- attention to the difference in the I could say, ‘Your son will come 23, address these matters. lives of his Christian friends. He back to try to learn his spiritual admitted that they had some- lessons. If he has more bad Polytheism and idolatry. These are thing that he did not possess. It karma than good, his next life condemned throughout the Bible was obvious that that ‘some- might be a little harder than this (Matthew 4:10). Scripture declares thing’ was the living Savior who last one. You, his family, will that there is only one true God had come to live within them never know him after he is re- (Deuteronomy 6:4-5; 1 Corinthians and had forgiven them of their born. But you can take comfort in 8:4-6). In fact, the Bible shows that sins. ... Finally, the light came on. knowing that, one day, after a other so-called ‘‘gods’’ are actually Now this young Hindu under- long series of births and deaths demons (Deuteronomy 32:16-17; stood the great truth of pardon and rebirths, he will be reunited Psalm 106:35-38; 1 Corinthians 10:19- for sin through our Savior’s sac- with the divine Brahman.’ That is 21). First John 5:21 says, ‘‘Little chil- rifice on the cross. Quietly he not what I told this family when dren, keep yourselves from idols. bowed his head. This dear young I came to their home. I said, Amen.’’ scholar who had sought after ‘Your son belonged to Jesus

October-December 2009 The Quarterly Journal · 19 Christ. He was not perfect. But Harvest House Publishers, 1991, pg. 7. N.J.: Wiley Publishing, Inc., 1999, pg. 14, all of Christ’s righteousness [a 5. John Bowker, editor, The Oxford Diction- bold in original. Hindu would say his ‘good ary of World Religions. Oxford: Oxford 26. ‘‘The Yoga Boom: A Call for Christian karma’] was credited to your University Press, 1999, pg. 430, s.v., Discernment (Part One: Yoga in Its Origi- ‘‘Hinduism.’’ nal Eastern Context),’’ op. cit., pg. 17. son. Jesus bore your son’s sin on 6. Ibid. 27. Yoga for Dummies, op. cit., pg. 18, the cross. And there will be a 7. So What’s the Difference?, op. cit., pg. 91. italics in original. day when you will see your son 8. Elliot Miller, ‘‘The Yoga Boom: A Call 28. Ronald L. Carlson, Transcendental Medi- again, face-to-face. Until that for Christian Discernment (Part One: Yoga tation: Relaxation or Religion? Chicago: time, your son is seeing the in Its Original Eastern Context),’’ Christian Moody Press, 1978, pp. 41-42. things we only dream about on Research Journal, Vol. 31, No. 02, pg. 14. 29. Ibid., pg. 42, italics in original. this side of eternity.’ Being able 9. George W. Braswell, Jr., Understanding 30. The Oxford Dictionary of World Religions, to say that made me very, very World Religions. Nashville: Broadman & op. cit., pp. 793-794, s.v., ‘‘Raja- or ’’72 Holman Publishers, revised edition, 1994, as[h]tanga-yoga.’’ glad that I am a Christian. pg. 35. 31. Ibid., pg. 415, s.v., ‘‘Hatha-yoga,’’ In reflecting upon the definition of 10. Ibid., pp. 34-35, italics in original. italics in original. The entry from the same the word ‘‘yoga,’’ which means 11. Ibid., pg. 40. source on ‘‘Gorakhnath, Goraksa, or 12. The Oxford Dictionary of World Religions, Goraksanatha’’ notes that he was ‘‘A ‘‘union’’ or ‘‘to yoke,’’ one might op. cit., pg. 102, s.v., ‘‘Astrology.’’ Hindu yogin of c. 10/11 cent CE’’ (ibid., remember Jesus’ statement recorded 13. So What’s the Difference?, op. cit., pg. pg. 383). in Matthew 11:28-30: ‘‘Come to Me, 94, italics in original. 32. A Guide to New Religious Movements, all you who labor and are heavy 14. Ravi Zacharias and , op. cit., pg. 43, italic in original. laden, and I will give you rest. Take general editors, Who Made God? And 33. Elliot Miller, ‘‘The Yoga Boom: A Call My yoke upon you and learn from Answers to Over 100 Other Tough Questions for Christian Discernment (Part Three: of Faith. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Zondervan, Toward a Comprehensive Christian Me, for I am gentle and lowly in 2003, pg. 155, italic in original. This Response),’’ Christian Research Journal,Vol. heart, and you will find rest for your quotation is from the question, ‘‘Why Is 31, No. 04, pp. 35-36. Miller’s quote is souls. For My yoke is easy and My There Such a High Degree of Interest in citing Dru Sefton, ‘‘Is Yoga Debased by burden is light.’’ Eastern Religions among Westerners?’’ by Secular Practice?’’ Newhouse News, July 15, L.T. Jeyachandran. 2005, document available at: http://one Taking up Jesus’ yoke was easy 15. See further, J. Greg Sheryl, ‘‘Paramah- truthministries.com/yoga_article.html. when compared with the yoke of the ansa Yogananda: Purveyor of a Different 34. Ibid., pg. 33. Jewish law as the Pharisees taught it. Jesus and a Different Gospel,’’ in this issue 35. A Guide to New Religious Movements, Taking up His yoke instead of the of The Quarterly Journal (pp. 4-13). op. cit., pg. 43. yoke of Hinduism is just as wise a 16. Paramahansa Yogananda, The Yoga of 36. Rabi R. Maharaj with Dave Hunt, Jesus: Understanding the Hidden Teachings of Death of a Guru. Eugene, Ore.: Harvest choice. ‘‘Yoking with’’ by submitting the Gospels. Los Angeles: Self-Realization House Publishers, 1984, pg. 208. (Formerly to Jesus the Savior brings eternal life, Fellowship, 2007, pg. vii. Also, Paramah- published under the title, Escape into the while taking up the yoke of yoga and ansa Yogananda, The Science of Religion. Light.) Hinduism can lead only to continued Los Angeles: Self-Realization Fellowship, 37. Stan Guthrie, ‘‘Hinduism Gains a confusion and separation from God. 2001, from the back cover. Foothold in America,’’ , 17. Walter Martin, The Kingdom of the Feb. 8, 1993, pg. 50. Endnotes: Cults. Minneapolis: Bethany House Pub- 38. Habel Verghese, Search For Inner Peace. Van Nuys, Calif.: Bible Voice Inc., 1977, 1. Walter Martin, The New Age Cult. lishers, revised and expanded edition, Minneapolis: Bethany House Publishers, 1985, pg. 353. pp. 81-85. This book, written by a Chris- 1989, pg. 13. The title page of the book 18. The Facts on Hinduism in America, op. tian from India, contains much otherwise also notes that Martin wrote the book cit., pp. 9-10, italics in original. Citation in helpful material; however, I do differ with ‘‘with The Research Staff of CRI.’’ Elliot the above passage is from A.L. Basham, him on this matter. Miller, Ron Rhodes, and Dan Schlesinger ‘‘Hinduism,’’ in R.C. Zaehner, editor, The 39. Some of these Christian authors would are mentioned by name as those who Concise Encyclopedia of Living Faiths, (Bos- be recognized by many readers of the helped. Martin also lists them on the ton: Beacon Press, 1967, pg. 237). Journal, were I to name them here. Not book’s ‘‘Acknowledgments’’ page, along 19. The Oxford Dictionary of World Religions, only so, but some of these same Christian with Craig Hawkins, and some unnamed op. cit., pg. 22, s.v., ‘‘Advaita Vedanta.’’ authors have beneficial ministries to the others on the staff ‘‘who assisted in the 20. Ronald Enroth, editor, A Guide to New Body of Christ. This just shows that, as preparation and editing of this volume.’’ Religious Movements. Downers Grove, Ill.: Christians, we must still ‘‘Test all things; 2. Ronald Enroth, editor, Evangelizing the InterVarsity Press, 2005, pg. 45, emphasis hold fast what is good’’ (1 Thessalonians Cults: How to Share Jesus with Children, added. This quotation is from the chapter 5:21), regardless of who it is that is doing Parents, Neighbors, and Friends Who Are on ‘‘Yoga and Hinduism,’’ by Vishal the teaching. Involved in a Cult. Ann Arbor, Mich.: Vine Mangalwadi with Ronald Enroth. 40. Brooke Boon, Holy Yoga: Exercise for the Books, 1990, pg. 21, italics in original. This 21. Ibid., pg. 46. Christian Body and Soul. New York: Faith- quotation is taken from the chapter on 22. ‘‘The Yoga Boom: A Call for Christian Words, 2007. ‘‘Hinduism’’ by Mark Albrecht. Discernment (Part One: Yoga in Its Origi- 41. Susan Bordenkircher, Yoga for Chris- 3. Fritz Ridenour, So What’s the Difference? nal Eastern Context),’’ op. cit., pg. 17. tians. Nashville: W Publishing Group, Ventura, Calif.: Regal Books, revised edi- 23. Ibid., pg. 12, italics in original. 2006. tion, 2001, pg. 91. 24. Ibid., pp. 17-18. 42. Holy Yoga: Exercise for the Christian 4. John Ankerberg and John Weldon, The 25. Georg Feuerstein, Ph.D. and Larry Body and Soul, op. cit., pg. 29. Facts on Hinduism in America. Eugene, Ore.: Payne, Ph.D., Yoga for Dummies. Hoboken, 43. Ibid., pg. 31; see also, pg. 5.

20 · The Quarterly Journal October-December 2009 44. Ibid., pg. 211. 57. Ibid. 68. My thanks to my college friend 45. ‘‘The Yoga Boom: A Call for Christian 58. Concerning its spelling as ‘‘Aum,’’ Dr. Benjamin Williams for pointing out this Discernment (Part Three: Toward a Com- Winfried Corduan explains, ‘‘Sanskrit verse to me as a biblical refutation of prehensive Christian Response),’’ op. cit., does not have a separate vowel for o’’ reincarnation. pp. 37-38; The New Encyclopedia Britannica, (Neighboring Faiths: A Christian Introduction 69. It is true that this vision was symbolic 15th edition, Vol. 12, pg. 846, s.v., ‘‘Yoga’’; to World Religions. Downers Grove, Ill.: of the inclusion of the Gentiles, whom and The Oxford Dictionary of World Reli- InterVarsity Press, 1998, pg. 345, endnote Jews considered unclean, in the Church. gions, op. cit., pg. 1058, s.v., ‘‘Yoga.’’ 12, italic in original). However, in Mark 7:18-19, Jesus had 46. ‘‘The Yoga Boom: A Call for Christian 59. The Oxford Dictionary of World Religions, already declared all foods clean. Thus, Discernment (Part Three: Toward a Com- op. cit., pg. 713, s.v., ‘‘Om or Aum.’’ even the symbolism in Acts 10:9-16 coin- prehensive Christian Response),’’ op. cit., 60. Neighboring Faiths: A Christian Introduc- cides with this truth. pg. 37. tion to World Religions, op. cit., pg. 209, 70. ‘‘Mohandas K. Gandhi’’ (1869-1948) 47. Ibid., pg. 38, italic in original. italics in original. was his actual name. ‘‘Mahatma’’ was a 48. Irving Hexham, Pocket Dictionary of 61. Yoga for Dummies, op. cit., pg. 301, title of respect, and means ‘‘great soul.’’ New Religious Movements. Downers Grove, italics in original. The passage that Bright gives here occurs Ill.: InterVarsity Press, 2002, pg. 120, s.v., 62. Death of a Guru, op. cit., pg. 208. near the end of the Gandhi’s brief Preface ‘‘yogic religions.’’ 63. ‘‘The Yoga Boom: A Call for Christian to his autobiography. 49. Ibid. Discernment (Part Three: Toward a Com- 71. Bill Bright, Ten Basic Steps Toward 50. Ibid., pg. 7, s.v., ‘‘Abramic religions.’’ prehensive Christian Response),’’ op. cit., Christian Maturity: Introduction: The 51. Holy Yoga: Exercise for the Christian pg. 40. Uniqueness of Jesus. San Bernardino, Calif.: Body and Soul, op. cit., pg. 33. 64. Ibid. Campus Crusade for Christ, Inc., 1968, pp. 52. Ibid., italics in original. 65. Ibid., pg. 41. 9-10, italic in original. 53. E-mail correspondence from Brooke 66. A Guide to New Religious Movements, 72. Adam Hamilton, Christianity and World Boon on file, dated Sept. 15, 2007. op. cit., pg. 43. Religions: Wrestling With Questions People 54. ‘‘The Yoga Boom: A Call for Christian 67. Pat Zukeran, general editor, World Ask. Nashville: Abingdon Press, 2005, pp. Discernment (Part Three: Toward a Com- Religions Through a Christian Worldview: A 46-47, italics and brackets in original. In prehensive Christian Response),’’ op. cit., handbook to analyzing the world’s religions quoting this story, I am not necessarily pg. 34. from a Christian worldview perspective. Rich- endorsing all that Pastor Hamilton says, 55. Ibid., pg. 32, italic in original. ardson, Texas: Probe Ministries, 2008, pg. either in this book or elsewhere. 56. Ibid., pg. 35. 228. g

EDITORIALS letter from the Watchtower which specifically identified (continued from page 2) Michael Jackson by name. When other counter-cult ministries wrote similar letters of inquiry to the Watch- articles described Jackson in costume going door-to-door tower organization, the Society responded with ‘‘an in Dallas and Birmingham visiting for the Jehovah’s entertainer associated with Jehovah’s Witnesses.’’) Witnesses. Yet Jehovah’s Witnesses knew that evasion would not All of this was concurrent with Jackson releasing songs suffice. The editors of People magazine revealed, ‘‘A and music videos such as ‘‘Thriller’’ and ‘‘Billie Jean.’’ spokesman for Michael Jackson’s congregation confirmed Picking up on this inconsistency, that he is a member in good standing and that he attends observed, ‘‘At the same time, perhaps more than anyone most of the meetings. However, the elders of his else he emplifies [sic] the music, videos, fashion and congregation are concerned about Jackson’s public image much else that is frowned upon by the hierarchy of his and performances, including his recent forays into rock church.’’ With such contradiction, PFO wrote to the video’’ (Jan. 23, 1984, pg. 4). Watchtower Society in 1984 and asked them how a The negative publicity for the Watchtower was begin- Jehovah’s Witness should respond when presented with ning to mount. Some former Jehovah’s Witnesses height- the glaring hypocrisy of Jackson’s lifestyle, public per- ened the Watchtower’s embarrassment with claims of a sona, and musical art merchandise — specifically his cult within the cult. US magazine stated, ‘‘The Jackson occult-based ‘‘Thriller’’ music video. We wrote, ‘‘Cer- appeal, however, has gone too far in some ways, tainly, a good Jehovah’s Witness would not want to according to [former Jehovah’s Witness Gary] Botting, present himself in this kind of light.’’ who says an ‘MJ cult’ has developed within the The Watchtower responded that, ‘‘The Society has been Witnesses. The cult believes that Jackson is the Archangel advised that Michael Jackson is a baptized member of the Michael, who is described in the Book of Daniel: ‘And at Christian congregation. However, his being one of that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which Jehovah’s Witnesses should not be construed by anyone standeth for the children of thy people’’’ (Oct. 8, 1984, to mean that either the Society or the congregation with pg. 69). Botting also contended that the Watchtower’s which he is associated approves or endorses the music ‘‘leadership was reluctant to alienate Jackson because the that he sings or plays, or all aspects of his life-style.’’ singer has helped bring contributions and credibility to (Interestingly, to our knowledge, PFO received the only the faith by what many consider his exemplary habits,

October-December 2009 The Quarterly Journal · 21