Why worship God?
 

Many religions focus on various forms of worship. They say to pray regularly. Some say to go on a pilgrimage to show your faith, to fast, to construct beautiful buildings in god's honor, etc. Why?

This seems to me like they're saying god has a self-esteem problem, and we need to play to that to bribe our way into heaven. Isn't he supposed to be above such petty things? I would think that god would like us to treat one another well, and spend our time trying to improve the world - not to waste our lives finding the best way to kiss his feet.

I'm not really religious, but have always wondered this. Is there any standard explanation?

You're focusing on the negatives too much. As a devout Jew, I can tell you that worship, fasting and pilgrimage have nothing to do with groveling, bribery or kissing feet. It is our way of showing thanks for the gifts that God gave us and continues to give us. He created us, gave us life and the ability to love, which is the only true emotion, therefore, we thank Him in these ways and show Him that we love him, as he loves us. God has no needs, He does not NEED us to worship him, because God has no needs whatsoever, it is simply a practice that we have.

I think these practices are usually more for the believer than they are for whichever form of deity they are paying respect to. Its a reminder to people to be humble and thankful for what you've got.

Check out the thread entitled Worship?

Yes, check out the thread that CSflim linked.

Thread closed.