Does no religion equal atheistic ?

[Chippingaway]

This is something of a spin off, inspired by Lightkeepers thread "Looking for One True Religion"

Do you think it's possible to have no religion, not be religiouse, and not be an atheist?

If not, then please give your reasons why not?

If so then please include your reasons why.

[Eolas Pellor]

I have met, over the years, quite a few people who were religious but atheistic. That is, they belonged to this or that religion, attended services regularly, went through all the outward requirements of their religions...but who had no belief in deity, at all.

I have met quite a number of people who are "unchurched", they have no church they attend, they do not find the outward forms of religion at all interesting or necessary, but who have quite deep and profound theistic principles.

If anything, I would say the number of people who fall into that second category are growing.

[wwwdlhow27]

I would agree with Eolas Pellor.
Religion is man made. It's not necessary for advancing spiritually. The answers to one's spiritual growth are found within, we need no intermediary for find or express our Oneness with God.

[vivamis123]

I don't think no religion equals atheistic. I believe in God, but not in "A" God. I don't believe there is anything outside of us, no power, no rules, no regulations, absolutley nothing.

To me spirit is the middle. Non religion, none atheist, combining both but being neither.

[Chippingaway]

Thanks for taking the time to reply Eola and WWW.

It seems belief is central to religion according to the dictionary. But IMO there are so many nuances to any component of living definition doesn't adequetly cover all the bases.

i get the idea that from some of you, your belief is provisional, that is, practiced, lived experientialy, until more is revealed from your path...to me this is spirituality.

vivamis...actualy your reply, tho not exactly, expresses closest to what i meant by living with no religion tho not atheistic.

Appreciation to the 3 of you.