The Da Vinci Code

[Kacie_bride]

I was just wondering since this is such a hot topic (I saw it on The View this morning) what everyone's feelings are over The Da Vinci code. I just bought the book and I want to read it before I see the movie. Personally I do not agree with what is inside the book (from what I've heard anyway), but it is a story and I want to read the story. My faith and what I believe is already set in stone when it comes to religion and what I read in this book will not sway me. I am just using it as a form of entertainment just as I would if I read a book about murder. I do not believe in murder, but I would read a book on it. So I was wondering what your opinions are on the subject.

[WebLady]

... My faith and what I believe is already set in stone when it comes to religion and what I read in this book will not sway me
I agree ... personally I haven't gotten much into it all.

[cowboysbride]

I was just wondering since this is such a hot topic (I saw it on The View this morning) what everyone's feelings are over The Da Vinci code. I just bought the book and I want to read it before I see the movie. Personally I do not agree with what is inside the book (from what I've heard anyway), but it is a story and I want to read the story. My faith and what I believe is already set in stone when it comes to religion and what I read in this book will not sway me. I am just using it as a form of entertainment just as I would if I read a book about murder. I do not believe in murder, but I would read a book on it. So I was wondering what your opinions are on the subject.

I love this topic...or any topic that shows and alternate view...I too am set in stone on my religion...but I work for a TV station and have a terrible time trying to understand why people want to alleviate what they don't agree with (ie) a show that portrays homosexuality..."Will & Grace" now I LOVE that show, and obviously I'm heterosexual. Why can't people learn to live and let live peaceably...I learned a long time ago that if you shut up long enough to hear what someone else is saying you might benefit from a part of it...no one says you have to agree with everyone all the time but smart people listen first and talk last! If you don't keep an open mind then what is in there will eventually turn stale and become outdated...morals are fine, be strong in them and stand for what you believe but don't be so set in them that you miss something new that could be beneficial in some way. Every rose has it's thorn...but they are still beautiful!

[LaceyinPgh]

I really enjoyed the Da Vinici Code when I read it. It was awhile ago when it first came out. I have to say that I wasn't that "shocked" by what it revealed though. I already knew about 99% of the information in it. I consider myself to be a well read individual with a span of interest. So over the years, I ran across most of the shockers in the book. And, I do believe them to be at least partial in truth. However, it was fun to have them put together in a well researched work that linked science, art, literature, and religion. If nothing else, the book did get people to see, understand, and discuss an alternate view. It also allows people to read about what was once considered very high brow scholarly works. Most of us wouldn't pick up someones doctoral thesis on Da Vinici or topics of Roman Catholic religious practices and anciet texts. But if it is presented in what is considered a fun manner more people are interested hence, more people read it, leading to the fact that more people are thinking. Thinking is NEVER a bad thing.

I personally have a distrust of organized religion. It has never been my thing. So I find at least the premise of the book to be plausable. It is nice to be able to look past what you have been told your entire life and explore new options. If people weren't able to do that, society never would have lasted this long.

Dan Brown also wrote, Angels and Demons dealing with the inner workings of the Vatican and the ancient brotherhood of the Illuminati. It is my understand that he is in the porcess of writing a book about the Masons as well.

I'll be at the movies seeing it on Saturday night. I have been waiting for this for over a year!

[AllyM1]

I don't agree with it and I feel it is making a mockery of my religion. I don't like it at all. It doesn't even make sense to me.

That's just me though...

[Kacie_bride]

I've began to read the book this afternoon and it is very interesting so far. I will defiantely be going to the movies to see it when I finish the book. I do not believe there is much truth to it, but I like the story anyway!

[ikkin510]

I have watched little clips of specials on the Da Vinci Code on TV. I do not agree with some of what I saw, it is against my religion. But it was interesting. A friend of mine at work is finishing up the box and he is giving it to me to read next. Not sure if I'll see the movie. There is so much fuss about it that I want to, but at the same time, I think I may just wait and possibly rent it when it comes out on video.

[WhiskeyGirl]

My DH has read the book and I will start here shortly too. (Once I finish the one I am reading right now.) I agree one hundred percent with what Lacey said. There are so many points that are wrong with organized religion that I will not touch on, in fear of hurting someone's feelings or saying too much. MY Dh really wants to see the movie tonight but I want to wait until I have read the book...guess I'll give in and see the movie first! I hate that! lol

Anyhow, if its only a work of fiction why do so many people get so upset about it? I think people want to squack about things just to hear their voice, if they don't agree, take the book, find a garbage can, deposit the book and walk away...but don't whine about it and ruin it for the rest of us!!! And as far as the book Angels and Demons, Dh has read that too and said it was really good as well. I will read as well because if the Vatican is so holy, then why is the current Pope an EX Youth Nazi??Seems hipocritical to me!!!

[rainbowtreat]

I am with Lacey and Shawna on this one. I have my beliefes but I am not big into religoin. I feel that it is a book and a movie that some may not like an dothers might. We are all different here and it is our right to do and say what we want. If you dont want to see it then dont. No harm done. Just like any other movie. As some one mentioned about murder or something else. We would not go out and murder some one but no one stands out side the theater and telling every one not to go see it do they. It is our right to see what ever movie we wnat to or read what ever we want to or even listen to any music we want to. Just as the peopel who make these movies and write these books and songs have the right to do so. Just my opion.

[MOB Karen]

Well, here I go again claiming complete ignorance to what this Da Vinci Code is all about. http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/4/4_6_3.gif (http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb001_ZNxdm824YYUS)But if it's a religion thing, it wouldn't bother me a bit. I have never been a religious person, and I wasn't brought up that way. We never went to church when I was little, and I never made my children go to church. I do believe in God, but I am not going to get myself upset over a book or movie. What's all the fuss about anyway? I just don't get it.


But I have to say I did see that Mel Gibson movie about Jesus, can't remember the name of it now (early senility I guess). It was way more violent than I was comfortable with, and even though I knew what was going to happen (of course), I still cried my fricking eyes out.:bbcry:

[andysgirl07]

I also agree with Lacey and Shawna. We saw the movie last night. It was okay, some parts couldn't hold my attention - I think I would have liked the book better. There were protestors in the parking lot. Personally, I don't see what the big deal is (but I'm not that much into religion anyways). As for the whole "this is fact and it's outrageous" thing - It's a novel written by a man, it's what he perceived to be a good book idea so he went with it (again I just don't see why there's a big fuss). That's like saying that the movie "National Treasure" with Nicholas Cage was fact.

[WhiskeyGirl]

Well we just got back from seeing the movie, though no protestors in the parking lot...lol. It was pretty good and kinda makes you go "hmmmm?" I will read the book and then I will be able to comment more on it. I believe that people who get so upset over this novel/movie maybe are the ones themselves doubting their own religion....of course thats just my opinion and is not meant to offend anyone! :wink:

[WebLady]

... I believe that people who get so upset over this novel/movie maybe are the ones themselves doubting their own religion....of course thats just my opinion and is not meant to offend anyone! :wink:

I tend to agree ... or it is the 'better than thou', right wing, judgemental, conservative, fundamentalist types that are out to 'save' the world :bbrolleyes:

I may see the movie, I may not ... it isn't something I am dying to see or dying to protest. I really don't know that much about it and I don't care too. But whatever it is, it isn't going to change my world one way or another. My faith has been set in stone for a long time now and nothing or no one will every be able to change that.

Personally I think all the controversy is just selling more box office tickets ;)

[LaceyinPgh]

I just got home. It is WAY past my bedtime. Sean, his sister, her friend, and I all agree, it was really good. It followed the book exactly. It was well made, well acted, well cast, and not overly preachy. We all enjoyed it. It was quite touching.

By the way, we are all women on here (except you L3vi but we love you anyway). We don't have to believe it, but we should all take pause and analytically look at anything that places a reverence and has an powering effect on our gender.

[WebLady]

... By the way, we are all women on here (except you L3vi but we love you anyway). We don't have to believe it, but we should all take pause and analytically look at anything that places a reverence and has an powering effect on our gender.

I am confused ... How does this affect women? Maybe I need to look more into this :bbconfused:

[LaceyinPgh]

I am confused ... How does this affect women? Maybe I need to look more into this :bbconfused:

The whole book/movie is based on the "discovery" that Mary Magdalene was supposed to be the foundation of the Christian Church. It goes on to show how the early Roman church went on to do everything in their power to cover that up and bury the idea that Mary and Jesus were married to make Jesus look divine and to protect the church's power. (I don't want to get too much into detail in case some of the other girls haven't had a chance to read/view.)

[WebLady]

The whole book/movie is based on the "discovery" that Mary Magdalene was supposed to be the foundation of the Christian Church. It goes on to show how the early Roman church went on to do everything in their power to cover that up and bury the idea that Mary and Jesus were married to make Jesus look divine and to protect the church's power. (I don't want to get too much into detail in case some of the other girls haven't had a chance to read/view.)

AHHHH, now I get it ;) I have read and seen other things about the theory that Jesus and Mary Magdalene were married, but I didn't realize that was what 'The Da Vinci Code' was about. Thanks for clearing that up for me :wink:

[WhiskeyGirl]

I agree with you Lacey! This book/movie can be very empowering to women!! Why would a woman want to hide these facts?? I have no clue! But I really think it will make more people wonder!

[Kacie_bride]

I am a religous person and I do not believe alot of the things in the book. However, I am almost finsihed with it and I LOVE it! I will defiantely be going to see the movie. I am not mad at all about it. It is entertainment and actually there are some very educational points to the book that nobody should have any problems with. I am talking about Fibonnaci's number and PHI. I've heard of those in college math classes!

I hope everyone knows that not all churches are against the book. Today I was hoping our pastor would comment something about the book to hear his point of view. He basically said that he does not believe the story line, however, go and read the book, see the movie, It is Okay! It is a story just like anything else.

I think the problem some of the churches has with it is the people who may be swayed just by reading one book or seeing one movie. I heard a poll I think from the New York Times (this was quoted from another source) that said after reading the book 60% of people believed that Mary Magdalene and Jesus had a physical relationship. This, I admit, can be distrubing.

Not downing Cathliocs (the Cathloic Church is considered our sister church), but in the early years the Vatican did not want people to be able to read the Bible because they believed people should not be able to make their own decisions from the information provided. This is what the churches are fearing. It is dangerous for them to have people be swayed by this ONE source.

I am not downing anyone who believes this either. I just hope anyone who does believe the message in the Da Vinci Code will seek information from more than one source. Then dig deep into the roots of your own faith and make a decision based on that.

Anyway, DO READ THE BOOK! It is wonderful!

[MOB Karen]

I am a religous person and I do not believe alot of the things in the book. However, I am almost finsihed with it and I LOVE it! I will defiantely be going to see the movie. I am not mad at all about it. It is entertainment and actually there are some very educational points to the book that nobody should have any problems with. I am talking about Fibonnaci's number and PHI. I've heard of those in college math classes!

I hope everyone knows that not all churches are against the book. Today I was hoping our pastor would comment something about the book to hear his point of view. He basically said that he does not believe the story line, however, go and read the book, see the movie, It is Okay! It is a story just like anything else.

I think the problem some of the churches has with it is the people who may be swayed just by reading one book or seeing one movie. I heard a poll I think from the New York Times (this was quoted from another source) that said after reading the book 60% of people believed that Mary Magdalene and Jesus had a physical relationship. This, I admit, can be distrubing.

Not downing Cathliocs (the Cathloic Church is considered our sister church), but in the early years the Vatican did not want people to be able to read the Bible because they believed people should not be able to make their own decisions from the information provided. This is what the churches are fearing. It is dangerous for them to have people be swayed by this ONE source.

I am not downing anyone who believes this either. I just hope anyone who does believe the message in the Da Vinci Code will seek information from more than one source. Then dig deep into the roots of your own faith and make a decision based on that.

Anyway, DO READ THE BOOK! It is wonderful!

Ok, you lost me. Why would it be disturbing if Jesus and Mary Magdalene had a physical relationship? He was a man, wasn't he? Is it because she was a whore or because he was divine? Maybe because I'm not religious, I just don't think this is a big deal.

[WebLady]

Ok, you lost me. Why would it be disturbing if Jesus and Mary Magdalene had a physical relationship? He was a man, wasn't he? Is it because she was a whore or because he was divine? Maybe because I'm not religious, I just don't think this is a big deal.
I think it might be a bit of both ... plus women were often seen as inferior at the time.

[ikkin510]

I agree with a lot of what Kacie said. I believe she may have meant the fact that 60% of the people who see this now believe it when she stated it was disturbing. To me, this is a fiction book. I am firm in my religion and am disappointed when people believe that that fact my be truth. In my opinion the Bible is all the proof to show that it is not true. Again, just my opinion.

[LaceyinPgh]

Ok, you lost me. Why would it be disturbing if Jesus and Mary Magdalene had a physical relationship? He was a man, wasn't he? Is it because she was a whore or because he was divine? Maybe because I'm not religious, I just don't think this is a big deal.

Mary Magdalene was never a prostitute. The passage in the Bible that introduces us to Mary happens to fall directly after a verse discussing a prostitute. There is no direct link or correlation between the two, just unlucky circumstance. There are writings of the time that have been validated by scholars that mention a Mary from the town of Magdala. She was actually a very wealthy merchant who inherited and ran her family's business quite successfully after her father died. She was looked down upon by early Jewish society because she was an independent woman of wealth. It is actually thought by some that her fortune is what bankrolled Jesus's early ministires.

What upsets people about the idea of Jesus having a physical relationship with a woman is that it would take away from his divinity. Being the son of God and divine he would be above the carnal needs of the average man. He should and would have only been focused on preaching the word of his Father, God. For Jesus to have fatherd a child would be totally obscene because then it would be seen as him completing a mortal act. Of course then what about the child? The "grandchild" of God, are they divine or are they mortal? It would almost be considered pagan if you look back to your Greek and Roman mythologies to see the mortal children the gods fathered. Breaking away from these pagan ideas was what the Roman emperors were trying to do in order to bring a semblence of peace back to the empire that was in the chaos of religious strife between the old polythiestic and new momnotheistic faiths.

But what people don't take into account (and I don't mean to upset a soul, I speak strictly from an academic sense here) is that Christianity is the only Judeo-Christian religion that sees the divinity of Jesus. The Jewish and Islamic faiths actually acknowledge Jesus, but in a different way. They see him as a prophet who spoke the word of God, not the divine being of God's son on Earth. Jews and Muslims who believe in the same God as Christians basically hold Jesus in the same catagory as Moses and Mohammad, great prohpets but by no means divine nor as the son of God put on earth.

[WhiskeyGirl]

Lacey!

thank you!! You are saying exactly what I am thinking. Why is Mary a prostitute?? I firmly believe she was not!!! I also believe that there is probably a couple extra books that belong in the bible that aren't there! The ones that speak of Jesus not being as holy as some would like to believe. I was raised Christian and sent to a Catholic school. I was literally removed from my religion class for having an oposing view to the bible! (Lets talk about tolerance there!! There wasn't ANY!) Religious people claim to be the most tolerant of all but I cannot count on two hands the ammount of times that a "religious" person has done something to me that would make a lot of peoples heads spin!! I have been stabbed in the back, bawled out, called out and so much more...how can a person call themselves a person of God if they don't possess the tolerance that they should???

My mom's church is about money and greed not about God and holyness!! If the church is so wonderful, why do they ask for money from the congregation??? When I was younger my mom would put money in the collection plate every sunday but when it came to birthdays, holidays, and Christmases, there was very little to celebrate as we had next to nothing! Where was the church when we were eating macoroni and suffering?? I sure as hell never saw them giving us an ounce of what we gave them!! Its a steal from the poor and give to the rich scam!!!

Sorry....I'm really upset that my childhood sucked and I hate that the church didn't help us when we were down and they ARE always up!! And I'm sorry if my comments offend some of you. Take them for what they are worth! They are my opinion only! :wink:

[MOB Karen]

We were always taught that she was a prostitute. And I firmly believe that Jesus Christ is the son of God. I think churches are non-profit groups that have to obtain money from somewhere, who better than their own parishioners. But I also firmly believe, if you don't have it, don't give it. That's just common sense.

[WhiskeyGirl]

We were always taught that she was a prostitute. And I firmly believe that Jesus Christ is the son of God. I think churches are non-profit groups that have to obtain money from somewhere, who better than their own parishioners. But I also firmly believe, if you don't have it, don't give it. That's just common sense.

A little easier said then done when you mother was raised a devot Catholic!!Why children must suffer at the hands of their own parents is beyond me but this is what it is!

[Kacie_bride]

I am aware of that some churches may not have their hearts in the right places and may be out to take money away from people. I know of churches were there are a bunch of hypocrits who back stab and talk about others. However, the bad always are more known to everyone than the good.

The church needs money to run. Even though they are a church, the electric bill still has to be paid. The pastor still has to feed his family, so he must be paid. That said, however, I don't believe he needs to drive a Mercedes.

There are 3 churches that I have been a part of in one way or another that give back to their members, support their congregation, and have made me feel very at home.

The first church is the church I was baptized at in Marble Falls, Texas. It is also the church home of my grandmother who is bedridden and terminally ill. Years ago one of the members who was a lawyer helped my grandparents and some other elderly members file a will for free. The church tapes the services and brings them to my grandmother's home. The pastor visits her at home on a regular basis. He comes to the hospital when she is there.

The second church is the one I was confirmed in. I just felt so at peace there. During confirmation my pastor would come pick me up at my house if my parents could not bring me. He always had a bowl of candy during the classes. During the summer he would sometimes take the class (we only had 3 in this particular class) and buy us lunch at the Chinese Buffet or CiCi's Pizza.

The third church is the little church I go to now. The pastor there is going to marry Justin and I. He is moving back to California in July, but he is still going to fly here for the wedding. He does not want us to give him any money. We are going to offer to pay for his hotel, but I don't think he'll accept that. These people have never judged me or been anything but nice to me. Even Justin who once had a distrust for organized religon is very at home at this chruch. He actually has become a member and has converted to being a Lutheran instead of a Baptist. Even if he did not convert our pastor would still perform the ceremony and the church would recognize the marriage.

Another thing. I am religous. I attend church (although I believe you do not have to be a Christian or go to heaven). I pray. My faith is very strong. However, I am open to being friends with people who are not religous, do not attend church, or those who do not even believe in any higher being. If they ask my opinion I give it. I have had friends who were Johovah's Witnesses and Muslim.

[WhiskeyGirl]

Oh don't get me wrong, there is a higher power, one that I do call God, however I do not believe in the bible! That to me is nonsense. But again just my opinion.

[rainbowtreat]

I don't consider myself a very religious person but I do believe in God and I do say my prays. I have attended many churches as a child. My mom never pushed us to go we went on our own free will because it was an option. I do how ever consider myself a Christian. I have my beliefs, I have been babtized ( as a child ), I have been saved. These things were done on my own free will and very touching at the time. I do not attend church every sunday nor do my children. But they are tought about God through me , their Nana and their dad. ( both a bit more into it then I am ). My kids say their prays and when asked about God I answer the best I can. If they want to start going to chruch with their Nana when they are older all the pwer to them. I believe that I am a good, honest, helpful, freindly person. I dont steal, lie, missuse people in any way. I believe that I will go to heaven because I am that way. I am teaching my children to be this way.

I have not read the book nor am I really intrested in seeing the movie. But my FH does want to and is reading the book at this time. If he wants me to watch it with him I will. I am open to anything that will prove other then what I have been tought. I wont say that this movie is all truth. It is how ever just a movie right. Talking about all the different churches and religions, take a look at the Scientology religion. This is based off a book some guy wrote. And the more money you have the more power you have in the chruch. And I have had friends in the past who were Johovah's Witnesses. Even attened a wedding of one. Does not meen I beleive in it. I dont believe in any religion who throws their chold out of the house becasue they dont want to be part of the church. Or becasue your sister ( or any part of your family decided not to be part of the church ) she could not be in your wedding. But some one who is not part of the church at all can be? I am just making a point that every one has their own beliefs and they have the right to have them. No one critizes me for not going to chruch. If I have questions I know who I can go to. I have many people I can go to.

A book or movie can only make people beleive this if those people choose to believe it. No one can tell them not to. No one can tell them what to or not to beleive. It is our choice.

For me, some oen telling me to do somethign or not do something is a huge no no. I will do what I want if I choose to do so. I do not do things that I think are wrong. I am an adult with some what of an educatd mind. I know right from wrong. So some one standing outside a thearter telling me not to see this movie would only make me want to see it more.

OK I have rambled on, sorry about that. I just wanted to state my point of veiw as well. I have many friends with many different beliefs. And like wach of them the same. Not one of them is better in my eyes because they do or do not go to church. Or because they go to a different chruch.

[Valmai]

Having never read any of Browns books before i think this one is testimonial to the fact that he is a brilliant story teller, people seem to forget completely that this is a work of fiction. He just takes theories that have been around for many many years and uses them to make a good story, which has worked!
Valmai xxx

[Kacie_bride]

Having never read any of Browns books before i think this one is testimonial to the fact that he is a brilliant story teller, people seem to forget completely that this is a work of fiction. He just takes theories that have been around for many many years and uses them to make a good story, which has worked!
Valmai xxx

He is a very brillant story teller!

[StaceyMc]

Here's what my pastor said yesterday regarding the Da Vinci Code "I ordered a companion guide for you to read if you're interested in seeing the movie." "I think it's a good mystery movie, but that's it - it's a movie for enjoyment."

He didn't discourage anyone to not go see it, just offered the companion guide. I didn't look at the companion guide, as I wasn't planning on seeing the movie in the near future, but that's just because I just won't have the time. I'd rather read the book anyways.

[WebLady]

... Religious people claim to be the most tolerant of all but I cannot count on two hands the ammount of times that a "religious" person has done something to me that would make a lot of peoples heads spin!! I have been stabbed in the back, bawled out, called out and so much more...how can a person call themselves a person of God if they don't possess the tolerance that they should??? ...

Shawna, though I never went to a Christian/Catholic school, I have had similar experiences with so called 'holy' people through out my life, even today. I have a firm faith in God and I am (for lack of a better word) a Christian, but I am not a fan a mainstream Christianity and organized religion ... I don't go to a mainstream church. I believe that many ppl in the church today have got it all wrong.

Oh don't get me wrong, there is a higher power, one that I do call God, however I do not believe in the bible! That to me is nonsense. But again just my opinion.

Before I found grace and the faith I have now, I felt pretty much the same as you ... Now I know better. To me, the Bible is a story meant to teach us and guide us. I do not believe it is meant to be taken in a literal sense, after all it was written a LONG time ago. The basics of my faith are in Christ and Grace. I believe that people are saved because of their faith, not because of how 'good' they are.

Here are some of my fav books on the subject ... "How Good Is Good Enough" - Andy Stanley, "Messy Spirituality" - Mike Yaconelli, "How Good Do We Have to Be" - Harold S. Kushner, "Son Of A Preacher Man" - Jay Bakker. If anyone is interested I could further explain my views. The 'church' I go to - www.VivaLaRevolution.org

As for The Da Vinci Code, I haven't read the book and I don't really care to see the movie. But I am not going to protest anyone that wants to. But I think we should all see it for what it is, entertainment ... it shouldn't be thought of as more than that. There is no hard evidence to prove the 'theories' behind it. I really don't see why so many ppl always have to have some kind of 'issue' to protest. The way I see it you should find your own path and you shouldn't be affected by a novel or a film. If something has you asking questions then go out and do the research and find the answers yourself, but don't let society or some book/film tell you what to think/believe ... Are we as a people really that impressionable?!

I don't know if I've touched on everything in this thread but I am sure you all are tired of reading about my opinions so I will stop.

I wish the best to all, whether you agree with me or not :D

[rainbowtreat]

I just saw a comercial for this movie that was rely cool I thought. They put words ont he screen that said...... seeit, debate it, beleive it, question it, etc, ec. those may not be exact but there was about 8 different ones. I though tit fit for this movie. More or less saying take it how you will but enjoy it.