is sacrifice an imaginary concept in contemporary society?
to be specific, is the idea of sacrifice for the collective by the individual a wholly foreign concept?
the next few words will likely be offensive to those who are religious. the mythology of Jesus as is most commonly taught suggests to us the core lesson of the crucifixion story is forgiveness.
what if the allegory was actually intended to teach us about the necessity of individual sacrifice for the greater good of the collective?
as a metaphysical allegory, this lesson is clearly needed in numerous spaces of contemporary &/or Western society. the fact that it is presented as a lesson in forgiveness as opposed to sacrifice seems relatively subtle.
which lesson has more potential for constructive change?
some might argue the forgiveness of god would clearly outweigh the need for individual sacrifice. how many arguing such a point actually know god? this question is also likely offensive to those who are religious. it may additionally be considered an absurd question. from a metaphysical standpoint the question is quite pertinent. its answer & ramifications are a discussion for another time.
forgiveness is necessary for growth in spaces. sacrifice of self for the collective is necessary far more frequently in the effort to create a cohesive & genuinely civilized social collective. a selfish mind is not particularly helpful in cultivating social cohesiveness. forgiveness is absolutely necessary & important. sacrifice is just a more important concept in spaces where the collective is concerned.
look around.
are we not a collective as a species?
not how do we tend to behave toward each other, but how do we actually exist on this planet?
how many of us recognize the needs of the collective as a priority?
how many of us have been taught to do so in any consistent fashion? 🧠🦈🤔🎩