You may be reading the Bible wrong. Pete Enns says the Bible itself shows a better way

[gtar100]

42. Well said.

There's a big difference between somebody saying, "This is how I see it", versus, "This is how it is." I've only recently come to an understanding of "orthodoxy" that is useful to me. Essentially, I understand it being a *common* interpretation of the meaning of scripture, philosophy, etc. Stuff like that has to be argued, debated and eventually agreed upon. That's essential for an organization to function as a whole but is just plain wrong when they insist everyone else believe it too. That common interpretation exists for those who choose to participate in it, anyone outside that group hasn't agreed to it at all. Most of our modern religions unfortunately do not respect individuals who sees things differently. Or more precisely, it's the failure of the practitioners of these religions. And that's not just a religious thing. Happens with all kinds of groups of people around just about any subject (i.e., what's the best form of government, best economic system, best style, best race )...

As for religions bringing peace, love and harmony...I find it best to be picky about what to take in from them. I could point any of them out - Hindu, Christian, Muslim, Buddhist, etc., - and find ways they do contribute to these qualities in the world. But they are also "all too human" (a nietzsche reference) and all too often manifest the exact opposites. We will find purity only in labs.