Pastor Rony Tan visited Phor Kar See temple today to apologize to head of Buddhist Federation Venerable Kwang Sheng
February 9th, 2010 | 
Author: Written by Our Correspondent
Lighthouse Evangelism Senior Pastor Rony Tan paid a visit this morning to Phor Kar See Kong Meng San Temple (in Sin Ming) to tender his apology to the Secretary-General of the Singapore Buddhist Federation Venerable Kwang Sheng in person over the remarks he made about Buddhism, Lianhe Wanbao reported.
Pastor Tan first made the remarks to his congregation about two weeks ago which was video-recorded and uploaded to Youtube where it was widely circulated in cyberspace.
In the three video clips, Pastor Rony Tan was seen interviewing a former Buddhist monk and nun about their experiences with Buddhism and appeared to make some disparaging comments on the tenets of its teachings such as nirvana, meditation and reincarnation.
The Temasek Review published an article on it last Sunday, prompting some of its readers to lodge a police report against Pastor Tan. A day later, Pastor Tan was called up by the Internal Security Department (ISD) for questioning leading to his public apology posted on his website.
In the hour long conversation, Pastor Rony Tan made a solemn promise to Venerable Kwang Sheng that the incident will not repeat itself again.
Venerable Kwang Sheng had accepted Pastor Rony Tan’s apology:
“He offered his sincere apologies which we have accepted. After all, we do not wish to see the matter being blown up,” he said.
He also urged the authorities to ensure no repeat of similar incidents as such:
“It is good that the authorities have looked at this matter, but this is a matter of national concern. We want to appeal to the public and the authorities to make sure there is no second time…….Singapore is a multi-religious, multiracial society. There is no point arguing over who is right and who is wrong,” he added.
Singapore Buddhist Lodge chairman Lee Bock Guan urged restraint on the part of Buddhists so that tension does not escalate:
“Buddhism teaches us to forgive; everybody makes mistakes.”
Mr Lee’s fears are founded. While some Buddhists will be offended by Pastor Tan’s remarks, most will not take any action to escalate the tension.
Buddhism is one of the most tolerant religions in the world and insulting another religion is definitely prohibited by the teachings of the Lord Buddha.
In one of the Buddhist suttas, the Buddha told his disciples that even if they were to be chopped up into five pieces by their enemies, not a single thought of ill-will or hatred should arise in their minds.
Pastor Tan’s comments would probably not raised a ruckus had he not posted the video clips on his website where it came to the attention of the larger public.
In the backdrop of the recent religious unrest in Malaysia which saw a few churches being petrol-bombed, the authorities have little choice but to take action against Pastor Tan.
A brief statement issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs last night reads:
“The Internal Security Department (ISD) has called up Pastor Rony Tan of Lighthouse Evangelism (LE) today in connection with his comments and insinuations about Buddhism and Taoism at LE sessions. These sessions were video-recorded and made available on LE’s website; video clips of these sessions subsequently became available on YouTube and other websites.
Pastor Tan’s comments were highly inappropriate and unacceptable as they trivialised and insulted the beliefs of Buddhists and Taoists. They can also give rise to tension and conflict between the Buddhist/Taoist and Christian communities. The ISD told Pastor Tan that in preaching or proselytising his faith, he must not run down other religions, and must be mindful of the sensitivities of other religions.”
Still, many netizens felt that Pastor Tan was let off lightly with only a slap on the wrist when three teenagers were arrested a week ago for making “racist” remarks about Indians on Facebook.
With the general election looming ahead, the government cannot be seen as being high-handed towards a religious leader. Neither can it afford to alienate the Buddhist majority by staying out of the matter altogether.
In the end, a “friendly” call and a press statement will probably suffice to soothe frayed nerves without offending too many Singaporeans at the same time.
News source: Lianhe Wanbao, 9 February 2010
Related articles:
1. Angry netizens post on Pastor Rony Tan’s Facebook
2. ISD calls up Pastor Rony Tan over his remarks about Buddhism
3. VIDEO: Pastor Rony Tan’s comments on Buddhism
4. Hardwarezone forumers up in arms over Pastor Rony Tan’s remarks
5. Pastor Rony Tan issues public apology on his remarks about Buddhism
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not enough
Sorry not enough – must go to Changi.
Pastor, pls learn to shut up if you do not understand other religions teaching, it just shows that your intelligent is too narrow. That narrow knowledge creates harrasment and insult for others.
For me, it looks very clear that you are IMMATURE as a spiritual teacher…VERY NARROW minded… insulting others in the hope to be recognised. It shows your personality…
Pastor Rony sounds like kind of pizza
Sorry can’t help it.
Pastor Rony sounds like pizza to me
The PAP Government need to govern this country with fairness.
If PAP Government did not bring Pastor Rony Tan and Pastor Derek Hong to jail for serious offence committed it implied that PAP Government is either on the christian side or they are too afraid of THE UNTOUCHABLE CHRISTIANS LEADERS.
There are just too many incidents pastors making remarks and poking fun at other religions and it is time to jail them before situation turned worst.
I am disappointed with his act.
As a leader, he should try to explain why he said that and saying sorry gives people impression of guilt of wrong doing.
If he is right, he should stand by what he says if he firmly believes in himself.
Else, i worry faith might be shaken.
Sorry not enough, must take 3 joss stciks to apologize
He had hurt not followers of Kong Meng San but Buddhists at large, the best solution is for the ISD and police to deal with him acocordingly with no bias.
What to do – it happened
The fellow already said sorry and visited the temple. Already malu enough already. What else you want?
I doubt you 2 are Buddhists and just here to create havoc. Even the Buddhist leaders also say forgive. What lah you!
Why not enough? Do you want the pastor to commit suicide then enough? We just have to forgive him and let the matter pass. Ultimately, he will have to answer for all his actions and deeds with God. Won’t that be punishment enough? By being too zealous in our reaction to this incident we are creating more Dukkha for ourselves. Not worth it. There are more issues for us to discuss.
Hey people,
Since he had make an effort to Sin Min, I think we should spare him the trouble of going to Changi!
apology not enough.
How come the pastor got no faith in his religion? So ya ya, dare to do and video it some more, but now chicken out.
What has he accomplished?
- to us outsider, he is zero
- to his fellow people, what you think he gain?
I think someone should start a petition, gather signatures from people that this case be treated in a fair manner. Since previous cases are all court cases, this case should be no exception. Since when saying sorry is enough to make it up for a seditious case in Singapore? If he gets away with just a simple apology, I am indeed surprised. Let the ISD and court put him in jail, and this will remind all the saying that a religion is false, satanic or demonic is not allowed!
I’m surprised that Rony Tan apologised. I watched the 3 videos and he was so SURE of himself and his god. In my opinion,he should offer to go to jail to prove that he stands by his teachings. Now what are his followers suppose to think? Will they continue to listen to his preaching or choose another place of worship?
Kena arrested for posting on facebook against given a phone call by ISD, which is more harsh? Double standards lah…
This is not enough.
“Still, many netizens felt that Pastor Tan was let off lightly with only a slap on the wrist when three teenagers were arrested a week ago for making “racist” remarks about Indians on Facebook.”
No one can forgive pastor rony except Lord Buddha himself.
He should apologize to Lord Buddha instead.
Pastor Rony Tan a WHITEHORSE?
BUDDHA was an Indian Prince who seek a way of Life and found ENLIGHTENMENT- TAOISM is a way and path of LIFE founded by a Chinese Loa Tse a forerunner to Mencies & Confucius more philosophy and teachings. Both seeking a way and path on earth one with the Universe never mentioning themselves to be God or a religion but A WAY of LIFE.
JESUS is a Jew who says the FATHER(GOD)and HIM are ONE.MOHAMMED is an Arab who is the MESSENGER of GOD.
The first TWO is a WAY of LIFE in which they seek and the Latter TWO is a RELIGION with a SUPREME BEING.
You can pick a way or path of life that will lead you to wherever you desire or you can believe in the SUPREME BEING who is GOD
Pick your choice and lets not quarrel to say who is right.Let there be PEACE on this little RED DOT
A influential leader who make seditious remarks is let off lightly while 3 teenagers are punished severely!
This is what you called PAP justice!
I really don’t know what to make of his visit. Extreme sincerity by apologising in person or just extended damage control?
How about him doing another service to correct all the misconceptions he spewed in the videos? I’m sure his Buddhist counterparts would be more than willing to share with him the correct teachings of Buddhism. He could then correct point by point all the wrongful/insensitive comments he made in the earlier services.
Even schoolboys know need to do corrections for mistakes in tests/exams. Saying to teacher: ‘Sorry, I will not do it again’ is of no use.
That goes far beyond apologising in person or in writing. For talk is cheap lah.
Rich people or leaders cannot be charge?
Is he well-connected?
He spreads falsehood and insulted other religions in a multi-religion Singapore and get scotfree with just apology?
■Allison on Tue, 9th Feb 2010 8:23 pm
What are his followers suppose to think?
The question in mind would be what were the followers thinking when they became his followers? 10,000 of them! Are they of similar thinking capacity as the 2 manupulated on stage?
This facebook group is Singaporeans who want to make love not war
The Moderate Stance
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?v=info&ref=mf&gid=291543027665
Feel the love, I think the creator join church to get to know chio bus.
If the police does not take any action against this particular pastor for making such insensitive remarks against another religion, it will only serve to give us the impression that the ISD is practising some kind of double standards in selective prosecution.
“Buddhism has the characteristics of what would be expected in a cosmic religion for the future: It transcends a personal God, avoids dogmas and theology; it covers both the natural and the spiritual, and it is based on a religious sense aspiring from the experience of all things, natural and spiritual, as a meaningful unity.”
Albert Einstein
.
this hypocrite also insulted his ancestors too as he was born in a taoist family and perhaps his relatives and friends.
he has his god protected, that’s why he is above the laws.
Sorry not enough – he must go to Changi.
Peter Su,
Ha ha ha!
I think Joseph Wee has better knowledge about Buddhism than you.
Einstein and Buddhism
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vgZ3zKNYURU
If Pastor Rony is sincere in apologising he should take the first step by studying buddhism. With the new knowledge and better understanding about buddhism he might realised he was wrong about buddhism. For all you know he he might willingly ask the buddhist communities for forgiveness.
MAKE THE 3 POLY BOYS APOLOGISE, WARN THEM, THEN SET THEM FREE.
In future, if anyone said similar things to that of Pastor Rony from Lighthouse Church, just warn them n make then apologise.
Joseph Wee came to the Buddhists first; unfortunately,the Buddhists around him at that time couldn’t provide any answer to his questions.
In the end, they (Buddhists) created a ‘Joseph Wee’ that we see today.
How many ‘Joseph Wee’ the Buddhist temples are ‘producing’ everyday?
Punishing Pastor Rony is going to make you people become better Buddhist?
法布施难吗？
@Jeremy: You’re comparing two different things. The 3 teens were malicious and knew what they were doing was wrong, and intentionally tried to hide behind their online identities. Pastor Rony Tan did not intend his words to intentionally offend other people. Yes, what he said is wrong, coming from a deluded man. Whether he deserves harsher punishment or not, I don’t want to comment cos I feel I’m not in the position to judge him. But I don’t think you can equate these two situations.
阿彌陀佛
Venerable Kwang Sheng’s graciousness makes me proud to be a Buddhist!
To understand everything is to forgive everything!
Can arrest kids but cannot arrest pastor? The law can be twisted depending on how big and influential a person is? What kind of ministers do we have to allow such to happen.
DOUBLE STANDARDS AGAIN.
http://www.straitstimes.com/Breaking+News/Singapore/Story/STIStory_406420.html
” On Tuesday, District Judge Jeffrey Sim ruled that Sim, an elder at the Lighthouse Evangelism church, did not deliberately exploit a minor. ‘He was misled by both the pimp and the minor into believing that the minor was 18 or above 18 years old,’ the judge said. ”
” The judge said these facts made Sim’s case different from that of Tan Chye Hin, 55, who was jailed nine months last year for having sex with the same girl.”
Yes, it is about fairness in applying the Law.
Netizens can forgive Paster Roy, but the police must apply the law fairly. Else you are giving wrong signal to the people, and this itself will cause unrest among the people.
Remember, the 3 kids on the net may have said those racist remarks due to frustrations, and they are arrested; but Paster Roy’s act is a calculated one.
The 3 boys are not charged yet. Why is everyone making it sound as if the boys are already in prison?
Stop all this fighting and know that the LORD is God. He will judge… Let us not assume to be God!
Stop fighting and know that the LORD is God! He will judge. Let us not assume to be God!
I got this from another forum:
The role of ISD is to ensure balance of security and stability. So ISD judgement in concluding cases is to ensure that the balance within the country is maintained.
How would the charging of the Pastor benefit the society as a whole? By issusing a public statement, ISD has already given its warning to the rest.
By having the initial reaction of wanting to give the pastor the full fury of the lawful punishment is natural, I was also damn pissed when I saw the video yesterday night. But on 2nd thought, would his punishment create another round of reaction from the other side? Maybe but would you want to go down that path? Where does it end?
The division within the community would only be greater if this continues and creates opportunity for others (maybe foreigners) to take advantage of the situation. By then, it would too late for many of us. The country would be in turmoil.
Far-fetch you may think but it is possible. Just ask your grandparents.
To show remorse with sincerity, Pastor Rony should volunteer to do some community work at the behest of Venerable Kwang Sheng.
the 3 boys one is about racist remarks. this one is about religion. apple and orange. dont confuse the two.
Stop the arugment , let their own god punish the wrong doers .
forgive him, his 10 000 followers and himself are feeling bad enough….
adear,
please be more sensitive here. Your Lord / God do not necessary mean he’s mine.
Rony, sounds like your “apology” is Phoney!
As an analogy…. U take $1 from someone and keep quiet until you’re found out and threatened with punishment. But then, u only apologise reluctantly but do NOT give back the $1 – is that a real apology? Rony has already caused great damage, yet perhaps he thinks he can get away by just issuing a simple apology?
To show true sincerity, he should make and circulate videos of him apologising for EVERY insensitive remark he made in those videos (that means if he made 10 remarks, he should address and apologise for ALL 10 remarks, and not just make a blanket apology.
Next, he should invite some Buddhist and Taoist priests to preach to his congregation for a full month, and allow them to rebut all those remarks he made.
I thought buddhism teaches people to be peace loving and forgiving but all the nasty comments posted here speak otherwise. Pastor Rony is right afterall…
While i am not a serious buddhist, i do recognise the fact that for every Cause there is an Effect. For every action, there is an equal but opposite reaction.
What ya say Randy?
@Buddha Blessings: What else can Venerable Kwang Sheng do? The seditious act applies to all religions here. Any meaningful rebuttal of Pastor Rony Tan’s preaching would receive the ISD’s attention. So the only thing to do is to be gracious and silent.
@Fiona Tan: I don’t think the nasty comments are coming from Buddhist, but from people taking the opportunity to blast Pastor Rony and the religion he represents.
Hatred does not cease by hatred, but only by love; this is the eternal rule.
We can forgive him, but just wonder did he spared a second thought during the time when he had discriminated buddhism? Did he get the right channel to understand buddhism? Is it right to understand buddhism by getting the so called “ex monk” and “ex nun” up on stage for questioning? Buddhism is not what mentioned/described by the so call “ex monk”. Since he was already an “ex monk” and had converted to christian, I find no purpose to question him on buddhism. In order to understand buddhism, he should do more researching than discriminating or insulting. We are neither satan nor demon but just a group of harmonise peoples that understand the teaching of lord buddha and the faith towards buddhism. > To his followers and himself, remember this by hard “Buddhists will never discriminate christianity and/or other religions to prove our religion or wanting to be recognised” Rick, iam answering your question, if 10 000 followers and himself are feeling bad enough, why in the first place they were all laughing away when he was discriminating other religion during his service..Why?
@Fiona Tan
what goes round comes round
Since your Pastor have apologize just STFU lah. Do a favor for your Pastor don’t undo what he has done.
Joseph Wee, In future if you ever jump ship again to another religion, Pls be considerate and do not belittle other religions. If you can do that the world will be more peaceful and a better place us to live in.
This is a good lesson for all of us that we have to mindfully place peace and harmony above what we believe. Another important lesson for us, the Buddhists, is not to allow others take away our peace and happiness inside us.
As Ajahn Brahm said, “if others attack the container, don’t let them attack its content as well”. Religious symbols and doctrines are parts of the container, while the wholesome quality such as moral virtues, calm and clear mind, and wisdom are part of the content.
Salute to the many Buddhist leaders and followers who have put the matter into the right channel with spirit of religious harmony, and to Ven Kwang Sheng for exercising forgiveness towards one’s ignorance.
May all beings be happy and at peace.
POLL AT HWZ
Regarding Mr Wong Kan Seng’s response to the media queries on the difference in treatment
http://forums.hardwarezone.com.sg/showthread.php?t=2668069
Regarding Mr Wong Kan Seng’s response to the media queries on the difference in treatment between that for the 3 youths arrested last month for posting racist comments on Facebook, and that for the pastor who made insulting remarks against the Buddhist and Taoist faiths
Let’s look at some real & factual happening/case.
Home > Breaking News > Singapore > Story
July 22, 2009
Man paid for sex with teen
http://www.straitstimes.com/Breaking+News/Singapore/Story/STIStory_406420.html
“The sentence amounted to a victory of sorts for Rodney Sim Hang Nge, 61, who had testified that he did not know the girl was 16 when he had sex with her.”
“On Tuesday, District Judge Jeffrey Sim ruled that Sim, an elder at the Lighthouse Evangelism church, did not deliberately exploit a minor. ‘He was misled by both the pimp and the minor into believing that the minor was 18 or above 18 years old,’ the judge said.”
I have the following doubt and hope any learned Christian can
share or clear:
Q1) Are Christian allowed to prostitute?
He must be severely punished since he is an adult and more importantly, he is a pastor. His words will have far more impact compared to the 3 poly boys. He has committed a more severe crime in comparison with the 3 poly boys. As such, he should get a heavier sentence.
Can anyone tell me how this guy became a pastor in the first place? I think he was utterly stupid and ignorant for the comment he made.
When he was on the stage speaking to half past six monk ( Joseph), he feel great and happy as though he is God. When ISD called him up, he behave like a mouse apologise here and there. If what he feel he said is true, he should stand by his words without apologising. To sum it up, it is indeed ” a blind leading a blind” which was said by him to his audience ( laughing blindly).
I do not believe in a god or an after-life and so the contents of the video do not bother me.
But here are my observations and comments after critically viewing the three videos several times:
a. The Pastor’s actions were premeditated, deliberated and rehearsed;
b. There was every intent to inflict the greatest damage;
c. He was aware that he was before an audience and therefore cannot lay claim that the sermons were private; and
d. He posted it on church’s website with intent that it be viewed by all.
Now look at this recent case: On 06-10-2009, a court in Singapore sentenced a fifty year old Ong Kian Cheong and his forty-six year old wife, Dorothy Chan Hien Leng to six weeks in jail for distributing a series of eleven Jack Chick comics, described as “seditious or objectionable” to Muslims. The couple stated they weren’t aware of the contents of the comic, sent in the post to certain Muslim Chinese citizens, The Little Bride and Who is Allah?, and when the couple were arrested, police seized hundreds of copies of the comic books.
Singaporeans can forgive the Pastor but the law must take its course. The two assistants should also be brought to book. There must be fairness in our justice system.
“the authorities have little choice but to take action against pastor tan”
Are they trying to say they have a choice nt to take action? Come on. It’s obvious there are no other choices but to take action against him.
As a Christian myself, I am saddened by you, Pastor Rony Tan and your preaching. Wrong path Rony, Wrong path. Looking at your expression, there is so much of hatred in you on other people believe. Certainly not in the Bible! You acted on your own and you do not represent us Christians. I’m not a Buddhist or Taoist yet I felt for them. I think you should really watch your own videos repeatedly, your body language and expression, think hard and ask yourself what you had gained. You had just killed the faith of potential Christians. To all those of you who laugh at his service, I see some serious faces too take a moment, think and pray for Rony and those he has misled.
He actually insulted every Buddhist & Taoist followers in this world.
I have been a buddhist my whole life. When I first read about this, I thought, “What’s the big deal?”. But when I watched the clips 2 mins ago, I felt very insulted. He has gone overboard. Even if he says that he is sorry, he is only sorry that he got caught and is afraid of being prosecuted. Just look at the way he staged the event. How can one believe that he is sincerely sorry? He has to face the law, otherwise he is making a mockery out of the system.
Today’s headlines on newspapers – ISD called Rony. And Rony apologised. He feared ISD more than he feared God. Had not the ISD called, would he apologise? Or is it a Miracle? Has he just seen the Light? Or is he doing the Healing now and Redeeming the mischiefs he put two ex-Buddhists through?
Hmm … the Mega-Man has Delivered. Go and see his EGO at http://www.ronytan.com
Fiona Tan on Tue, 9th Feb 2010 10:35 pm
//I thought buddhism teaches people to be peace loving and forgiving but all the nasty comments posted here speak otherwise. Pastor Rony is right afterall…//
Those nasty comments posted here could be his angry followers for making them lose face.
Y post on the website, what’s the ???? behind
Belive me u go heaven, if not u go ???
How scare it is
If your body passing out blood just pray to ???
Oh no all doctor will be jobless
The Pastor Tan was let off lightly with only a slap on the wrist when three teenagers were arrested a week ago for making “racist” remarks about Indians on Facebook.
My point of view , the Pastor Tan as a mature, full of wisdom and understanding person, had deliberately made such comment, he shouldn’t be let off lightly.
For the three teenagers, immature and playful should be given a second chance. I felt the weak is bullied.
Instead of calling Pastor Tan, they should have house arrest him and make a home for him in ISD.
Let hope this will be the last, no more insults from other religion anymore.
His wrongdoing is spreading in WWW.
http://tvnz.co.nz/world-news/singapore-denounces-christian-pastor-3354684
http://sg.news.yahoo.com/rtrs/20100209/tap-singapore-religion-c3bb44c.html
http://themalaysianinsider.com/index.php/world/52468-singapores-internal-security-department-calls-up-pastor
http://www.pamil-visions.net/pastor-roy-tan-ignites-firestorm-of-criticism/211759/
http://www.daylife.com/photo/0eoo3Hi6Ud3Xm
http://uk.reuters.com/article/idUKTRE6180MY20100209
http://in.reuters.com/article/entertainmentNews/idINIndia-46014320100206
http://americanbuddhist.net/video-lighthouse-evangelism-pastor-rony-tan%E2%80%99s-comments-buddhism
http://ph.news.yahoo.com/singapore.html
Then Elijah said to them, “I am the only one of the Lord’s prophets left, but Baal has four hundred and fifty prophets. Get two bulls for us. Let them choose one for themselves, and let them cut it into pieces and put it on the wood but not set fire to it. I will prepare the other bull and put it on the wood but not set fire to it. Then you call on the name of your god, and I will call on the name of the Lord. The god who answers by fire—he is God.”
Then all the people said, “What you say is good.”
Elijah said to the prophets of Baal, “Choose one of the bulls and prepare it first, since there are so many of you. Call on the name of your god, but do not light the fire.” So they took the bull given them and prepared it.
Then they called on the name of Baal from morning till noon. “O Baal, answer us!” they shouted. But there was no response; no one answered. And they danced around the altar they had made.
At noon Elijah began to taunt them. “Shout louder!” he said. “Surely he is a god! Perhaps he is deep in thought, or busy, or traveling. Maybe he is sleeping and must be awakened.”
>>Atheism is the Cure for Religious Fundamentalism on Tue, 9th Feb 2010 10:30 pm
>>
“… To show true sincerity, he should make and circulate videos of him apologising for EVERY insensitive remark he made in those videos (that means if he made 10 remarks, he should address and apologise for ALL 10 remarks, and not just make a blanket apology…”
>>
Next, he should invite some Buddhist and Taoist priests to preach to his congregation for a full month, and allow them to rebut all those remarks he made.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
I agree with this innovative way to resolve the underlying problem. Great suggestion!
To Fiona Tan,
ARE YOU SPEAKING FOR ALL CHRISTIANS?
QUOTE -
Fiona Tan on Tue, 9th Feb 2010 6:45 pm
SOMETIMES THE TRUTH CAN HURT…and Pastor Rony is JUST SPEAKING THE TRUTH. Kudos to Pastor Rony. Our Lord Jesus Christ will always be with you
Fiona Tan on Tue, 9th Feb 2010 10:35 pm
I thought buddhism teaches people to be peace loving and forgiving but all the nasty comments posted here speak otherwise. Pastor Rony is right afterall
This fraud obviously has no balls, conviction nor principles.
He cleary stated that Buddhism is a false religion. Because of the threat of arrest and time behind bars, he now turns tail, betrays his Jesus God and now accepts that the false religion is not false after all.
Pastor Judas Fraud instead of Pastor Ron would be a better name for him.
Lucky he said nothing about Libertarian.
Errr….isn’t it a KNOWN fact that our laws are selective? Now this case only reinforces the fact further. Nothing new. Zzzz
But you know what is the really scary part? It is now in your face, so what. It’s now blatant. The message is CLEAR.
Terrorists escape, No Accountability!
TH & GIC loses hundreds of billions of people’ monies, No Accountability!
AWARE new team (chris-lians) started a public battle & squandered $100k in less than 2 weeks of funds from the old AWARE team that took the latter years to raise, No Accountability!
S377A legalized for st8 people but still criminal for gays (as if your mother, sister girlfriend, wife, all dying to have anal sex), No Accountability!
Pastors Rony Tan and Derek Hong blaspheme other religions, even blatantly promoting their offensive views publicly, No Accountability!
…..etc
These are ALL hidden signs of corrupt, evil, self professed x-tians at work. They will grip on to their self serving ends like pit bulls, no matter what truths are pitted against them, without regard to fair play, justice and true CHRISTIAN values so long as they get their way.
Just read all the illogical idiotic unfair double standard comments here. It sends the message that certain x-tians can do ANYTHING and nothing will happen to them. Travesty at its worst!
Now you KNOW who are the ones really running Singapore…to the ground.
Either set the 3 kids free with similar warnings or Rony Tan faces the same process like them. It’s NO brainer logic. Those who says, blah blah blah, Rony is remorseful lah, he has apologized hor, we all forgive ma, move on lei, be good Buddhist ok, must be chri-lians la, blah, blah,…are ALL VICIOUS EVIL double standard Snakes.
Ponder this:
3 KIDS, KIDS!!! face the consequences of destroying their lives forever over immature comments. Do you care?
versus
A professional mature knowing pastor out to undermine, defame and attack another faith, not only in church which is bad enough, but then deliberately post clearly seditious material online to further publicly MOCK, humiliate and attack Buddhism, walking away scot free.
Excellent Singapore. Brilliant. Well done.
A FAIR law IS equitable in ALL measures.
If there is NO justice in this case eventually, just watch now how the right winged self professed x-tians will further be convinced and emboldened that it’s their god-given right to oppress/attack other faiths.
PS: If Rony Tan and Derek Hong had offended Islam, I’ll bet you a US$100 billion that the law will “punish” them for show cos being surrounded by our passionate Islamic neighbours, you can literally smell the fear and hear little MIW balls rolling on the ground otherwise.
This, my fellow Singaporeans, IS A FACT and don’t anyone ever forget it!
@Fiona Tan:
I thought buddhism teaches people to be peace loving and forgiving but all the nasty comments posted here speak otherwise. Pastor Rony is right afterall…
Yes, buddhism teaches people to be peace…., Not all people here are buddhists. Would christian be angry if a buddhist pass bad remarks of Christian.
From the video, it was very clear, from his voice, his body language and expressions, he has ill intentions, that is to enhance himself and the church and to get more followers. I support that he gives another video to his same members about his apology and also allow Buddhist monk to give talk to his church on buddhism. He shuld not be allow to get away just like that. How many innocent people are being jail or punish in the pass for doing something wrong , when an apology would have help them.(My two cents)
Just shows that he is a human after all despite all his powderful speeches.
Funny right apologising to the leader of what he himself openly painted as a false religion, wonder what new lame excuses he is dreaming up for his herd to cover his actions.
Why didnt he just pray to his supreme leader to solve his problem with ISD to go away just like the ex-monk did to make blood in his stool go away, instead of having to loose face with a public apology?
Many times these servants of their lord get overboard and believe they have rubbed off powers from the supreme just because the followers take everything in hook bait and sinker.
Since Pastor Rony Tan is acting on behalf of ” his christian God ” with full confidently telling his followers all the remarks & comments and running down on Buddhism & Taoism and doing apologizing act the next moment implied all his preaching were completely wrong.
Yes !!!
Indeed all Pastor Rony Tan preachings were wrong to the extend that he had deceived his followers and had blind them.
It is gong to take a very long time to re-educate these blind and brainless believers to achieve some wisdom when they are awakened.
By the way was Pastor Rony Tan insincere apologize to the Buddhist and Taoist leaders instructed by his god remain a mystery ?
http://www.asiaone.com/News/Education/Story/A1Story20100208-197407.html
Aware bows out of sex education for now
Controversial school programme not offered to MOE for vetting, says president. -ST
Tue, Feb 09, 2010
The Sunday Times By Irene Tham
In the latest twist in the long-running saga over sexuality
education, the Association of Women for Action and Research (Aware)
says that it will not offer its programme to schools for now.
Called Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE), the programme was
the subject of a huge controversy last year as it was found to have
gone beyond the guidelines set by the Ministry of Education (MOE).
Aware president Dana Lam told The Sunday Times that it ‘has not offered CSE to the MOE’ for vetting.
She said that the programme has been ‘badly misrepresented by a few people who have had no experience with it’.
However, she added: ‘We hope that the discussions generated on
related issues would mean that other vendors are now more aware of and
more prepared to address the real needs of the young.
‘We are happy to leave it to them, and to focus our energies on
other pressing gender issues that are not receiving sufficient
attention now.’ These include sexual harassment, violence against women
and unfair dismissal of pregnant women.
The basic instructor’s guide for CSE had contained lines which
condoned homosexuality and stated that anal sex was ‘healthy’ if
consensual and done with a condom.
An outcry among concerned parents prompted the ministry to suspend
all programmes run by external groups like Aware in May last year and
to start vetting these groups.
One parent, who wrote to the ministry last year to protest against
Aware’s programme, is glad that it will not be taught in schools.
‘We should know what our children are getting. I am happy that
Aware’s programme is not in,’ said Madam Chen Fei Huang, 39, mother of
two children aged 12 and 10.
But Ms Lam said that Aware will ‘continue to keep a lookout for what needs might arise’ in the area of sexuality education.
Schools, which used to have the autonomy to hire external vendors of
sexuality education programmes, now have to choose from a list from MOE.
The ministry said it is finalising the list, which is slated for release early this year.
Prior to the suspension, about five organisations including Aware provided external programmes to schools.
These agencies were the Singapore Planned Parenthood Association,
Family Life Society, Fei Yue Community Services and Focus on the Family
Singapore.
Their materials supplemented MOE’s own sexuality programme, which is
incorporated into science, health education and civics and moral
education lessons for upper primary to junior college levels.
Although some of the groups are religion-based, their programmes are tailored for children of all backgrounds.
Some teach children that homosexual acts are wrong while others take a more neutral stance.
A spokesman for Family Life Society said it has submitted its programme ‘as is’ to MOE but declined further comment.
Fei Yue Community Services declined to comment on its programme, which is still pending approval from MOE.
Singapore Planned Parenthood Association and Focus on the Family Singapore did not respond by press time.
Ms Josie Lau, 49, former president of Aware, declined to comment.
She became president of the group on April 15 last year. But she and
her new executive committee – with members from the same church Ms Lau
attended – were unseated after a vote of no confidence at a stormy
extraordinary general meeting on May 2.
They were accused of taking over Aware in a stealthy manner. The new
members had disapproved of the organisation’s sexuality education
programme, saying it promoted homosexuality.
itham@sph.com.sg
This article was first published in The Straits Times.
without the ISD………..this so call baster will never apologise
It takes a great man to lower his ego to make such a personal apology
This show double standard handling the cases by ISD and the govt, the 3 teenagers and pastor . Where is the justice? I really felt sorry for the boys. I said vote PAP out in next election. I definitely do it whoever come to my area.
In order for us to have a better understanding of the perceived DOUBLE STANDARDS in Singapore’s legal system, I urge TR to do a thorough comparison of this case with ALL other past cases, including these:
Couple sentenced to 8 weeks jail for distributing seditious publications
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/435089/1/.html
Singapore bloggers charged with sedition
http://news.cnet.com/8301-10784_3-5862538-7.html
Third Singapore racist blogger pleads guilty to sedition
http://www.singapore-window.org/sw05/051026af.htm
… and of course the recent case involving the 3 youths.
>>#PlZ on Wed, 10th Feb 2010 3:34 am
>>This fraud obviously has no balls, conviction nor principles.
>>He cleary stated that Buddhism is a false religion. Because of the threat of arrest and time behind bars, he now turns tail, betrays his Jesus God and now accepts that the false religion is not false after all.
>>Pastor Judas Fraud instead of Pastor Ron would be a better name for him.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
PIZ has brought up a point which I hope the authorities will contiinue to consider even after this ugly episode.
I am only worried that the so-called apology is something that the pastor (and maybe others in his group) did only to avoid further backlash and not a genuine realisation of wrong-doing on their part.
Since this is the only group I know whose teachings are to belittle all other beliefs, without exception, either implicitly as well as publicly if permitted, it is thus a real threat to social harmony and peace as long as such a group continues to exist.
Thus it will be prudent for the authorities to treat it as a real threat, just like any other undesirable threat to society as a whole, and deal with it in an appropriate manner. A formal warning, or even detention, will go a long way in incidents such as this one, if only as a deterence to other like-minded groups or individuals.
But this is not to say that the ordinary believers are the culprits. I can vouch for the moral goodness of most of the believers. It is the teachings which are instilled in the minds of receptive believers to ignore and disregard the truth and merits of others’ belief systems that is dangerous.
A really good belief system should encompass love, compassion and consideration for others.
There is really nothing to forgive or forget by Buddhists. It’s just 4 aggregates making some sound. Should we be bothered?
What he has done makes him a precious teacher for us Buddhists.
” It takes a great man to lower his ego to make such a personal apology ”
he is a Great Man!
only those not-so-great man will stubbornly stick to their beliefs and remain in ISD prison for 20+ years. not only are they not-so-great, they are probably not-very-clever also.
but this Pastor, he is Great and Clever so he apology straight away!
otherwise how did his business expand until so big ?
You can now view the 3 video clips on the ‘Buddhist Channel.’ This Channel have a wide international audiences and it would be interesting to read their comments on this issue.
We are oly humans abd we make mistakes.
What we have here is:->>>>>The good I want I seldom do,the evil I hate I always do.
I thought it would also be necessary for the Pastor to apologize in person to venerables of the other Buddhist traditions. Especially to Theravada and Tibetan traditions whom he directly alleged to have belittled and ridiculed in the 2 video interviews of the ex-monk and ex-nun.
To #Fiona Tan,
please think this over…
I won’t take my religion from any man who never works except with his mouth. Carl Sandburg (1878 – 1967)
When I do good, I feel good; when I do bad, I feel bad, and that is my religion. Abraham Lincoln (1809 – 1865)
Men show their characters in nothing more clearly than in what they think laughable. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Nothing is worse than active ignorance. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
We are never deceived; we deceive ourselves. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Nothing shows a man’s character more than what he laughs at.
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749 – 1832)
If God had wanted me otherwise, He would have created me otherwise. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749 – 1832)
I do not know everything; still many things I understand.
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749 – 1832)
You will always find [hatred] strongest and most violent where there is the lowest degree of culture.Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe (1749 – 1832)
Good day to you and wish you all the best ahead.
Perhaps you should try goethe. A person who believe in the humility of God, An accomplished scientist, A man of the people and for the people, A man who made society to try to think independently and truely understand, A true romantic, so many…A real leader and a real person.
I wonder why all reports and interview are all focus on the Head of Buddhist Federation but not on the respond and interview from the Head of Taoist Federation .Does that show the SG government really have a religious chart ranking system which place the most important religion at the top of the list?No wonder this Rony Tan can get easily off the hook without punishment ,while others will definately send to jail for such remarks .
He should at least be put under lockup in ISD for a weeks or so ,to assit in further investigation rather then to let him off the hook with just a warning .By putting him under lockup in ISD will serve as a punishment and reminder to those pastor that any such comments and remarks will at least be thrown under lockup for a week in ISD .But why didnt the authority do that?Its unfair to other religion .
From some of the reports ,there are even some ppl who state that the media report is untrue .He is not even being call up to ISD ,but just merely asking a few question over the phone .Letting him off so easily?
Pastor Rony Tan is doing his ” christian God” work to preach.
Questions :
1) Where was Pastor Rony Tan “Christian God” when he was called up by ISD ?
2) Why didn’t Pastor Rony Tan daringly tell ISD off he is doing his “God’s Work” and stand firmed on his ground.
3) Why apologize for preaching his ” God’s work” ?
4) We always heard christian claiming everything created by his “God” and was ISD created by their “God” to punish Pastor Rony Tan ?
5) Did Pastor Rony Tan “Christian God” play Pastor Rony Tan out this year and played out Pastor Derek Hong out last year ?
Anybody with wise mind kindly help clear my doubts.
Thank you.
{Jay posted on Wed, 10th Feb 2010 12:04 pm:
I wonder why all reports and interview are all focus on the Head of Buddhist Federation but not on the respond and interview from the Head of Taoist Federation .Does that show the SG government really have a religious chart ranking system which place the most important religion at the top of the list?No wonder this Rony Tan can get easily off the hook without punishment ,while others will definately send to jail for such remarks ….}
===============================================================
Hi Jay!
I disagree with your pessimisticangle of looking at the matter. As sincere and unreserved apologies have been given repeatedly made by Pastor Rony Tan, we should now try to look for the silver lining in this unfortunate episode. Shall we, Sir/Mdm?
For a start, I humbly look forward to your erudite comment on my open letter to Pastor Rony at the link given below. God bless, Jay!
Click: http://www.temasekreview.com/2010/02/09/pastor-apologises-personally-to-buddhist-taoist-federations/comment-page-1/#comment-72688
Fiona Tan on 9 Feb, 10:35 pm
What makes you think that those commenting here are Buddhist? What Pastor Rony have done in denigrating another religion angers non-Buddhists and even Christians as well!
You are like when someone is caught with pants down and you say “I thought you guys are not supposed to see..”.
native singaporeans
Be careful what you say. Do you know you are now doing exactly what Pastor did ? You are now insulting Christianity through your sarcastic remarks. If someone make a tape and bring that to ISD …….
This advice is also given to others who are also throwing a lot of disparaging remarks on the religion associated with Pastor Tan. He was the transgressor, not the religion of his faith. Rev Ming Yi was also a transgressor many months back, but no one on the Christian side attacked his religion or made any disparaging remarks against his faith.
We must remember that it is the man who commits a crime, not his belief system or his values. A criminal may have bad or immoral values, but this values are only inherent properties. It was his own hands that did the crime. Always remember that.
stop spreading your evil cult and fairy tale in singapore. if u want to join a crusade, go iraq! or go worship the power ranger if u like to spread ignorance.
For those who believe that ,Rony Tan as a pastor is being protected by some high ranking official due to his religion is somehow quite true .After reading the post below ,what u think?Very likely?If i am not wrong Ho Peng Kee is from the Minister of State, Ministry of Law & Ministry of Home Affairs.
” In the last GE, Nee Soon East flared up red-hot on the electoral map because of trouble between some grassroots leaders and temple folk over procedures for Hungry Ghost Festival celebrations.Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew stepped in to smooth relations and PAP candidate Ho Peng Kee won the single seat”
I guess someone is more afraid of reality than his own beliefs of superstitions. And obviously those who laughed along with his ignorant insults also have little grey matter between cupped ears.
A Christian’s views on the whole saga.
http://cheee.wordpress.com/2010/02/09/senior-pastor-rony-tan-and-buddhism/
The pastor is very lucky he made these remarks in Singapore. If he did it somewhere else, I can’t imagine what will happen to him or his church. lets hope he learn from this episode and contribute towards religious harmony in Singapore.
is this a religious forum? can we achieve the objective of helping fellow citizen gain insight into issue like cost of living , political changes and welfare of the society with such discussion? Wasting too much time and lossing all focus. Want to take over management, wait long long…..
Singapore,
Why are you making a sweeping statement about just this thread/s on this topic?
Can’t you see that there are also numerous other threads on a wide variety of topics besides this one?
If this topic continues to draw the interest or concern of the public, it is simply because it is something the public feels concerned about. Otherwise, it will gradually fade into the archive section.
SingaporeINC,
Why are you making a sweeping statement about just this thread/s on this topic?
Can’t you see that there are also numerous other threads on a wide variety of topics besides this one?
If this topic continues to draw the interest or concern of the public, it is simply because it is something the public feels concerned about. Otherwise, it will gradually fade into the archive section.
{native singaporeans on Wed, 10th Feb 2010 12:37 pm
….
Questions :
1) Where was Pastor Rony Tan “Christian God” when he was called up by ISD ?
2) Why didn’t Pastor Rony Tan daringly tell ISD off he is doing his “God’s Work” and stand firmed on his ground.
3) Why apologize for preaching his ” God’s work” ?
4) We always heard christian claiming everything created by his “God” and was ISD created by their “God” to punish Pastor Rony Tan ?
5) Did Pastor Rony Tan “Christian God” play Pastor Rony Tan out this year and played out Pastor Derek Hong out last year ?
….kindly help clear my doubts. Thank you.}
==============================================================
Hi “native singaporeans”
Thanks for your questions. Please click at the link below and read my open letter to Pastor Rony Tan, snd you will understand why he is under a divine obligation to “say sorry” to the aggrieved Budhists and Taoists, so that hopefully people like us can also learn something good from his example in humility.
Our Apostle Paul says, “Do nothing from selfishness or conceit, but in humility count others better than yourselves. Let each of us look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” Philippians 2:3-4.
Now, Click: http://www.temasekreview.com/2010/02/09/pastor-apologises-personally-to-buddhist-taoist-federations/comment-page-1/#comment-72688
Those who keeps comparing between the couple who distributed seditious tracts and this pester Rony Tan should know that those two cases are not similar.
The couple distributed the tracts to the general PUBLIC with the intention of causing disharmony. They were caught red-handed MASS-MAILING and dropping a stack of the tracts into a post box at comcentre. One of tracts is titled ‘Who is Allah’, which obviously meant to denigrate instead of praising the Muslim God. Claiming ignorant is beyond believable. Nevertheless, the 3 Muslim victims has forgiven the couple and the case cooled down.
Pester Rony Tan sharing session was meant for the Christian audience. The mistake here is that he didnt realise (or done intentionally) that the videos will utlimately end up in public if they were to be published online.
Thats where the punishments are different for those two cases.
Now back to the tracts ‘Who is Allah’, now they are fighting for the rights to use Allah in their worship in the Malaysian churches. How hypocrisy is that!
@2 cents
Disrespect shown in private is still disrespect. We call people who different values in public and in private hypocrites.
Matthew 23:28 In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness.
I think the insulting comments aside, my main grouse with the service was that Joseph Wee was either a terrible misinformed Buddhist, or the whole thing was staged. Mantra chanting is not a Theravada practice. He also mentioned going vegetarian on the 1st and 15th of the lunar month, which is a Chinese practice. Yet he mentioned that the liturgical language used was Pali (which is the language of Theravada texts) and that the head monk was Sri Lankan (a Theravada country). The details just do not add up. So, either Joseph Wee was from some dubious cult, or he was never Buddhist in the first place.
Pastor Tan also claimed that the Buddha mentioned that he was ’still looking for the way’ when he died. There is no known Buddhist text that contains this information.
There is also no known text that mentions the Buddha saying ‘I am still looking for the way’ when he died.
This is not just disrespect, it is blatant misinformation.
Pastor Rony Tan Blasts Buddhist Part 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n49rvf9qCow
Pastor Rony Tan Blasts Buddhist Part 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKBzyatd880
Pastor Rony Tan Blasts Buddhist Part 3
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEfQwBu5ZWE
Pastor Rony Tan Blasts Buddhist Part 4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S4wKGg4mJ1g
{kangwei Feb 11, 2010 9:35
All in all, all religion (and irreligion like atheism) should pivot someone to do good to others. If that is not achieve, the religion dun deserve be be called one. And doing good, i am sure, does not involve insulting others}=====================================================
I BELIEVE BUDDHISM TEACHES FORGIVENESS AND PROMOTE GOODNESS
Kangwei!
Agree with what you had said very well: “All in all, all religion (and irreligion like atheism) should pivot someone to do good to others. ”
That being the case, would you like to join me to say and show faith in this transcendentally beautiful Quranic Prayer of Prophet Suleiman? I am a fundamentalist Christian making the invitation to you, so I am not trying to proselytize you to the religion of Islam.
You may want to know that despite being a Christian, I am highly honoured by the Yemen Observer to be hosted on the same web-page as the Jordanian royalty for my article “Crusading for the Prophet’s Prayer”. As you know, Yemen is a place swarming with Islamic terrorists. And yet I am so honoured there. Amazing isn’t it?
So I would like to invite all Buddhists and Taoists to join me and the CEO of Singapore Buddhist Federation (Mr Kwa Soon Khe) to show faith in this beautiful Quranic Prayer. I believe on this wonderful Prayer is where Buddhists, Taoists, Christians and followers of other religion can sort out, unite and strengthen their mutual relationships.
So it would be better for the Buddhist “marine” to take up my invitation too, instead of going around fuming mad with Pastor Rony Tan (so unforgiving), and posting links to his videos that “marine” is himself/herself complaining so bitterly about (such as in the post above by “marine” on Thu, 11th Feb 2010 1:00 am).
“marine” should not have shown such upside-down defiance to Pastor Rony Tan’s kind request to take down all his videos. Or at least “marine” should show faith in their Buddhist’s leaders calm acceptance and forgiveness of what Pastor Rony did and had apologised for. Otherwise, people are getting conflicting and confusing signals from “marine” about his/her brand of Buddhism—-does it really preach forgiveness and goodness? But I strongly belief Buddhism does, despite the vehement attempts by upside-down people like “marine” to confuse us—that Buddhism in fact does not promote forgiveness!!
Now you can go to the Yemen Observer website at:
http://www.yobserver.com/opinions/10013281.html
to read my post there:
“CRUSADING FOR THE PROPHET’S PRAYER
Sad to say, Islam has been so badly messed up by the Great Muslim Ummah into such a terribly dysfunctional faith that is searching for a religion. And in the Prayer of Prophet Suleiman, Islam has found the true religion. So what all Muslims (not just Arab countries) need is not democracy, but the Prayer of Prophet Suleiman.
For democracy cannot change lives, and it is too messy—“two steps forward and one step back” kind of thing. Or even one step forward, and three steps backward, as happened in Gaza when over-run by Hamas in a democratic election. Orr in Afghanistan when ruled by the cruel, semi-literate Talibans, who were then very popular (an ersatz democracy, which proved to be a poison potion for all Afghans). But the Prayer of Prophet Suleiman (a Jewish ‘prophet’) can revolutionise one’s life and nations.
So not only is the Prayer of Prophet Suleiman good for the Muslims; it is good for the whole world too. If every warm human heart can be lodged this miracle prayer, we can soon bring forth a great moral and spiritual revolution in the world, the likes of which will have never been seen before! Then peace, enlightenment, progress and prosperity will surely ensue for the whole world! And Allah will be greatly pleased with humankind!
Prophet Suleiman (otherwise known as King Solomon in the Holy Bible) has prayed: “Inspire me, Lord, to be thankful to Thee for Thy favours to me and my parents to do good deeds that will please Thee. Admit me, through Thy mercy, to be among Thy righteous.” An-Naml 27:19. “For the noblest in Allah’s sight is he who is the most righteous.” Al-Hujurut 49:13.
So can everybody please help me to promote worldwide this miracle prayer?”
”I admire and applaud your courage to speak out what you think is right. Seldom have I seen a Christian came out to denounce anything that has remotely got to do with Christainity”
Above is the comment make by somone who praise himself for denoncing Rony .I have a question for him .Did he denounce Rony from the bottom of his heart or just denounce him out of fear of implication?Afraid others might view them in the same like as Rony .Hope they are really denounciing him deep in their heart ,not doing it just due to out of fear and implication.
Another thing i wish to remind those that they shouldnt believe totally and blindly in their pastor words.In the case of Rony Tan,if his followers believe in his remarks then what will be the outcome? Below is the verse from verse .god wanted them to judge and not believe totally in pastor words .
Jeremiah 6 (New International Version)
13 “From the least to the greatest,
all are greedy for gain;
prophets and priests alike,
all practice deceit.
14 They dress the wound of my people
as though it were not serious.
‘Peace, peace,’ they say,
when there is no peace.
15 Are they ashamed of their loathsome conduct?
No, they have no shame at all;
they do not even know how to blush.
So they will fall among the fallen;
they will be brought down when I punish them,”
says the LORD.
”Isaiah 56:11 (New International Version)
11 They are dogs with mighty appetites;
they never have enough.
They are shepherds who lack understanding;
they all turn to their own way,
each seeks his own gain.
Here is another verse from bible .For those who follow blindly.
Thanks Jay, for giving us your free Bible lesons here.
ay God bless you!
”Thanks Jay, for giving us your free Bible lesons here.
ay God bless you!”
No problem Tham.At least you dare to accept the fact ,unlike Yeah Chee Seng .He state that he allow complete freedom for anyone to post any comment good or bad but when i post the above verse from the bible ,he didnt dare to post it up .
Thats why i have doubt in his sincerity when he state that he is denouncing Rony Tan .Whether he denonce Rony out of fear for being implicate ,afraid that others might see him in the same light as Rony ,that only he know it himself .
Jay
Be caredful what you say. Better have the FACTS in your hand. You can be sued for defamation by Asso.Prof Ho Peng Kee. But I think he is not like LKY and he probably would not sue but just take it in his stride as just a passing comment by a misinformed Singaporean.
I personally know him when he was an undergraduate at University of Singapore and I can tell you that there is no basis for disparaging comment which you made. He is not that sort of person as far as I know, and he will not let trivial injustices done on him to take greater proportion than what they deserve. In short, it’s a lucky thing you cited his name as a “corrupt” official. If you used another name …….
Jay
”Be caredful what you say. Better have the FACTS in your hand. You can be sued for defamation by Asso.Prof Ho Peng Kee. But I think he is not like LKY and he probably would not sue but just take it in his stride as just a passing comment by a misinformed Singaporean.
I personally know him when he was an undergraduate at University of Singapore and I can tell you that there is no basis for disparaging comment which you made. He is not that sort of person as far as I know, and he will not let trivial injustices done on him to take greater proportion than what they deserve. In short, it’s a lucky thing you cited his name as a “corrupt” official. If you used another name …….;;
Did i said he is a corrupt officier ?I didnt make that coment .Pls read what i post before you make any comment in here .what i post about the GE issue is a true account ,its even in the news during the GE period .I dont think there is ay injustice done since the incident about Nee Soon East flared up red-hot on the electoral map because of trouble between some grassroots leaders and temple folk over procedures for Hungry Ghost Festival celebrations is an actual fact.
{Slap Rony Tan the PEST Feb 11, 2010, 21:58 PM:
Terrence, if someone ridicule yr religion. how would u feel.
this idiot Rony is ridicuing so many people. if my mother is aware, she would have slap his bloody face with slippers. i wish he dare to come and face me to preach about his GOD. i would have slap his bloody face as well even though i am neither taoist nor buddhist..let him rot in HELL….}
GOOD IDEA IF YOU THINK SLAPPING HIM OR ME CAN MAKE YOU INTO A BETTER MAN, SIR!
So sorry, sir! Pastor Rony Tan is a good, brave, caring and humble man. He had repeatedly apologised, and I am grateful to the Buddhist and Taoist leaders for being so forgiving and gracious. I have joined him to apologise to all aggrieved Buddhists and Taoists. What more do you want, sir? Are you sure that slapping him or me will make you happier and a better man?
If that is the case, let me know where I can meet you or your mother, and you can slap me with your slippers. I would promise not to report you or your Taoist mother to the police. We can call the reporters to witness the slapping; or you can decide not to call them to cover the incident.
But let me one more time say sorry to you and then you can start your slapping. And let me then say to you “May God bless you!” after the slapping. And then you can go your way and be a happier man.
But will this make you a better person, sir? After all, you are not even a Buddhist or a Taoist. But your mum is one. So why are you fuming mad, sir?
May God bless you!
” In short, it’s a lucky thing you cited his name as a “corrupt” official. If you used another name …….”
Did i mention that he is corrupt?Thats wat you said .I didnt even mention the word corrupt .If you can find any ”corrupt ” word in my post ,pls paste it in here to prove your statement .Pls read my post before you make any comment .
Anyway ,the GE incident which i mention about is a true account .Its even in the new during the GE period .I dont consider it to be an injustice .
Nee Soon East saga because of trouble between some grassroots leaders and temple folk over procedures for Hungry Ghost Festival celebrations is a fact .
”I personally know him when he was an undergraduate at University of Singapore and I can tell you that there is no basis for disparaging comment which you made”
OIC,did u really know Asso.Prof Ho Peng Kee?If you really know him its gd ,but if not better dont claim to be one .You can be sue for impersonating as someone close to him so as to prevent anyone from using his status for personal gain ect .
Sure, Rony apologised but the question is his apology sincere and is he remorseful? He and his 12,000 followers may still think that he speaks th truth. If that is the case, is his apologise acceptable? Sorry for what?
Rony Tan deliberately ridicule Buddhism and Taoism and I also believe that many churches in Singapore also ridicule the 2 religious. I plead with our Gov. to do something about this bad practice, if this carry on for another 30 years SG will leave with only Christianity and Islam
I am a free thinker; I strongly feel that Rony must go to jail as a deterrent, so that other pastors will preach in a correct manner.
Now may be this that Pastor can’t sleep well of stupid idea, he think in this world only know the religions, the others are stupid, this is kind of person can’t peaceful and happy because find of problem
Singapore is very nice of country but this stupid person make destroy, he don’t know how make peace for country, this don’t know how long can become normal because everythings what he done go inside the people mind.
May be he want to clear the other religions out from Singapore, don’t know he know or not, Singapore history or Buddhist history
All countries in the world problem but he add more problem for country, this pastor police must take action to him.
Also can see (two faces) face of pastor and face of Venerable monk, who faces are clean and who are look happy. People always done wrong, their faces are very ugly, who are study astrology, they can predict.
The Rise Of Buddhism In New Zealand
Voxy News Engine, 18 January, 2010
Auckland, New Zealand — What happens when two religions and two world views collide?
That was the question Victoria University graduate Hugh Kemp sought to answer via research that focused on how and why New Zealanders convert to Buddhism.
“Buddhism is gaining traction in New Zealand, so my interest was in what makes a New Zealander become a Buddhist and the variety of pathways they take as they journey towards, and embrace, Buddhism,” says Mr Kemp.
As part of his PhD research, he also focused on the identity that convert Buddhists construct for themselves as New Zealanders.
Mr Kemp interviewed around 70 new Buddhists from all over New Zealand and attended 27 Buddhist events and gatherings. His interviews explored four factors of inter-relationships: practice and ritual, selfhood, belief and involvement.
“It was essentially a qualitative sociology project that tracked why New Zealanders take up the practice of Buddhism and how they continue to find meaning, chiefly in regular practice, ritual and involvement.”
Although Mr Kemp says he was surprised that numbers of New Zealand converts hadn’t increased as much as he’d expected, or as much as overseas trends indicated, Buddhism remained a popular religion here.
“It’s down to a number of factors – the increasing profile of the Dalai Lama, New Zealand’s closer ties with Asia and the fact that we’re quite open to new religions and have a history in New Zealand of people experimenting with new religions.”
Mr Kemp, who also has a Masters of Theology degree, says interviewees’ stories were placed in a social-historical narrative of Arcadia.
“If New Zealand is Arcadia – clean, green, 100% pure and the ideal place to live – then it can be conceived of as a Buddhist Pure Land. Arcadia and the Pure Land come together in notions of ‘home’, offering a new imaginative order for Buddhist practitioners.” Overall, he says his research indicates that new converts overwhelmingly believe New Zealand is a good place to practice Buddhism.
“Buddhists in New Zealand say they will continue to create their own identity and find a turangawaewae or place of identity in which to stand.”
One of Mr Kemp’s supervisors Professor Paul Morris says, “Dr Kemp’s pioneering work, which is the first systematic study of New Zealanders who become Buddhist, tells us both about religion and spirituality in our country and the specific manifestations of Buddhism here.” Mr Kemp graduates with a PhD in Religious Studies and is hoping to teach Religious or Asian Studies. His supervisors were Dr Rick Weiss and Professor Paul Morris.