February 8

Page Two

Do you believe that the pope is infallible? If you do, in what respects is he unable to err? And what significance does this teaching have for the Roman Catholic Church? Has it unified the church? Above all, is the teaching based on the Holy Scriptures?

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Page 2 photo: Miami Herald Publishing Co. and Surfside Publishing. Inc

Are Popes Infallible?

‘THE dogma on which the triumph of Catholicism over Rationalism depends.’ That is how, in 1870, the Jesuit periodical La Civiltà Cattolica acclaimed the solemn promulgation of the dogma of papal infallibility at the First Vatican Council.

In Catholic theological language, “dogma” refers to doctrines that have an “absolute value and are unquestionable.” The exact definition of papal infallibility, as approved by the council of 1870, states:

“It is a divinely revealed dogma that the Roman pontiff, when he speaks ex cathedra, that is, when acting in the office of shepherd and teacher of all Christians, he defines, by virtue of his supreme apostolic authority, a doctrine concerning faith or morals to be held by the universal church, possesses through the divine assistance promised to him in the person of blessed Peter, the infallibility with which the divine Redeemer willed his church to be endowed in defining the doctrine concerning faith or morals; and that such definitions of the Roman pontiff are therefore irreformable of themselves, not because of the consent of the church.”

A No-Lose Situation

This formula, which is difficult for many individuals to understand, is also vague, according to a German theologian, the late August Bernhard Hasler. He spoke of the “vagueness” and “undetermination” of the expression ex cathedra, saying that “one can almost never tell which decisions are to be considered infallible.” According to another theologian, Heinrich Fries, the formula is “ambiguous,” while the late Karl Rahner admitted that the matter had given rise to a “complicated controversy.”

Hasler maintained that “the vagueness of the concepts” allows both for an extensive application of the dogma in order to increase the power of the pope and for a more limited interpretation so that when faced with wrong teachings of the past, one can always support the claim that these are no part of the so-called infallible “magisterium.” In other words, it is a “heads I win, tails you lose” situation.

“Infallibility” means, then, that the pope, even though he makes mistakes like all other humans, does not err when defining matters of faith and morals ex cathedra, acting in the office of shepherd of the Roman Catholic Church.

Nevertheless, what do Catholics themselves think about this doctrine?

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Pope Pius IX insisted on the dogma of infallibility in 1870

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Culver Pictures

What Catholics Say About Infallibility

HOW do many Catholics themselves view the doctrine of papal infallibility? Note the following comments made to Awake! correspondent in Italy:

A. M., a Catholic lawyer from Bergamo, said: “If a person professes Catholicism, then he must believe in its dogmas. That the problem of papal infallibility cannot be explained in a rational way is obvious​—it’s a question of faith. One either believes or one doesn’t.”

P. S., a Catholic from Palermo, affirms: “What is important in my opinion is, not so much whether the Bible supports the dogma or not, but whether its function within the church can be verified, and its specific utility today. We live in a confused world, a real Babylon of ideas. People no longer have certainties, and there is this great necessity for an absolutely sure source they can relate to.”

Other Catholics are critical. It would seem that their skepticism is based upon the papacy’s historical precedents. “Even though I am a practicing Catholic, it’s difficult for me to believe in this doctrine [of papal infallibility],” said L. J., a Rome journalist. “The history of the popes shows the exact opposite.”

A. P., a Rome doctor, says: “I don’t believe it at all. He is a man like all the others and makes mistakes. For example, he’s wrong when he gets involved in politics. Only God doesn’t make mistakes.”

This doctrine has divided people. In 1982, in the city of Rome, the home of the Vatican, 57 percent of Catholics considered papal infallibility one of the most questionable of dogmas. In Portugal, only 54.6 percent of Catholics believe in it, and in Spain, only 37 percent.

Could it be that this dogma, instead of contributing to the unity of the Catholic Church, has actually given birth to divisions and disputes? Historical evidence shows it has been at the root of controversies since its beginning, even during the council that promulgated it in the 19th century.

Divisions and Browbeating

It is undeniable that there were some very heated arguments between bishops and cardinals during the Vatican Council of 1870. La Civiltà Cattolica of that year spoke of “fiery agitation,” pointing out that not even the Jesuits anticipated that “such contrasts would have arisen in the face of such a sacred truth.”

German historian Ferdinand Gregorovius wrote that there were “tempestuous sessions” at the council. The one held on March 22, 1870, was particularly unruly. Bishop Josip Juraj Strossmajer, one of the many bishops present at the council who were against the infallibility dogma, was silenced by the howls of the bishops who favored it. The records of the council relate that while Strossmajer was speaking, these bishops “loudly” protested and ‘yelled’: “Kick him out!” and, “Get down! Get down!”

Other historians have shown that the pope and the Roman Curia exerted strong pressures on council members in order to get the dogma approved. Concerning this, Catholic historian Roger Aubert speaks of the “row” that Pius IX had with Cardinal Guidi of Bologna, whose address to the council was not to the pope’s liking. In a fit of anger, Pius IX reportedly said to the cardinal, who had made reference to tradition in his discourse: “I am the tradition!”

The pope wanted the doctrine approved at all costs: “I am so determined to go ahead,” he said, “that if I thought the Council wanted silence, I would dismiss it, and I would make the definition by myself.” La Civiltà Cattolica admitted: “The maneuvers of the council’s majority and also of Pope Pius IX, and the limitations and difficulties imposed on the minority, are no longer to be minimized or justified apologetically.”

One history book sums up the events, saying: “Papal nuncios [ambassadors] intimidate the bishops into favoring a decree of papal infallibility.” However, such “maneuvers” did not succeed in calming the waters of dissent​—they only served to agitate them even more. After the council, part of the dissident clergy broke off from the Catholic Church. The “Old Catholics” movement was formed from the schism, and it is still active in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland.

Modern Doubters

The controversies over this dogma have never really quieted down. In 1970, with the approach of the 100th anniversary of its approval, they flared up with particular vehemence.

At the end of the 1960’s, Dutch bishop Francis Simons wrote the book Infallibility and the Evidence, in which he clearly expressed his doubts as to the infallibility of the Catholic Church and of the pope. Simons said that because of the dogma, “instead of being a force promoting progress and healthy changes, the Church has become an institution fearing that which is new and preoccupied with safeguarding its own position.”

Soon after came the seasoned attack of Hans Küng, the noted Swiss theologian, who, with his book Infallible? An Enquiry and other writings, drew stern reactions from the Catholic hierarchy. Then, at the end of the 1970’s, August Hasler wrote: “It is becoming increasingly evident that there is no basis for the dogma of papal infallibility, either in the Bible or in the history of the church during the first millennium.”

Theologians loyal to the church doctrine have reacted in various ways. La Civiltà Cattolica mentions the “formidable mass of difficulties, intolerance, and trouble” generated by “the reaffirmation of the doctrine of the Petrine-Roman primacy decreed by Vatican II.” Karl Rahner stressed that “the dogmas remain in their historical setting and permanently open to future interpretation.”

If the definitions of dogmas are subject to new interpretations, how can they be infallible? How can they offer the certainties people are seeking? However, it is even more important to know whether the early Christians followed an infallible pope.

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“He’s wrong when he gets involved in politics.”​—A Rome doctor

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Miami Herald Publishing Co.

Infallibility and the Early Christians

THE doctrine of infallibility is closely linked to that of the “primacy,” or supreme power, of the pope. According to the Enciclopedia Cattolica, “the Bible texts that establish the primacy bear witness to pontifical i[nfallibility].” In support of this doctrine, the same work cites the following verses in which Christ is speaking to Peter.

Matthew 16:18: “You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church.”

Luke 22:32: “But I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail; and when you have turned again, strengthen your brethren.”

John 21:15-17: “Feed my lambs.” “Tend my sheep.” “Feed my sheep.”​—Revised Standard Version, Catholic Edition.

According to the Catholic Church, the above-mentioned verses should demonstrate: first, that Peter was the “prince of the apostles,” that is, that he held the primacy among them; second, that he was infallible; and third, that he would have “successors” sharing his prerogatives, the primacy and the infallibility.

In this regard, however, Giuseppe Alberigo, lecturer in church history, makes these significant comments: “As is known, in the NT [New Testament] the word ‘pope,’ or the relative substantivization ‘papacy,’ never occurs. The only dominant figure is Jesus of Nazareth; among the disciples, and particularly among the apostles, it is very problematic to recognize, on the basis of the texts, a figure that emerges above all others. Peter, John, James, Paul, constitute figures just as characteristic and significant, different from one another and complementary. Without a doubt, Peter is presented as one of the apostles Christ spoke to more frequently, even though not the only one nor the most significant one.”

What did the early Christians believe? Professor Alberigo answers: “In the early centuries, no doctrinal elaboration or pragmatism exists for the figure and the functions of the pope. . . . The possibility of an ‘episcopus episcoporum’ [bishop of bishops] was an aberration for Cyprian [a third-century writer], as he affirmed at the synod of Carthage.”

When did the doctrine of the papacy take root? Professor Alberigo says: “Toward the end of the fourth century, the Roman church’s claim to an apostolic function, that is, of coordination for the western churches, becomes more insistent.” It was “during the episcopate of Leo I [fifth century],” adds Alberigo, that “the concept of Peter’s ‘princedom’ among the apostles, founded on Mt 16:18,” was developed. “One finds in the NT no indications by Jesus concerning the successors of Peter or of the other apostles.”

But do verses such as Matthew 16:18, the one most often used by Catholic theologians, support the papacy doctrine?

Who Is the Precious Foundation “Stone”?

“You are Peter [Greek, Peʹtros], and on this rock [Greek, peʹtrai] I will build my church.” As far as the Catholic Church is concerned, the close similarity between the two terms shows that Peter is the foundation stone of the true church, or Christian congregation. But since the Bible has much to say about the symbolic stone, it is necessary to examine other verses in order to gain a correct understanding.​—Matthew 16:18, Revised Standard Version, Catholic Edition.

Important prophecies in the Hebrew Scriptures had already announced the coming of a symbolic foundation stone and the double role it would play. It was to be an instrument of salvation for those who exercised faith: “Here I am laying as a foundation in Zion a stone, a tried stone, the precious corner of a sure foundation. No one exercising faith will get panicky.” (Isaiah 28:16) Paradoxically, it was to be a rock over which the unbelieving Israelites would have stumbled: “The stone that the builders rejected has become the head of the corner.” (Psalm 118:22) “As a stone to strike against and as a rock over which to stumble to both the houses of Israel.”​—Isaiah 8:14.

Was it possible for a mere man, especially impulsive Peter, to play out the double role of the symbolic stone? (Matthew 26:33-35, 69-75; Mark 14:34-42) In whom should we exercise faith in order to obtain salvation, in Peter or in someone greater? Over whom did the Israelites stumble, over Peter or over Jesus? The Scriptures clearly indicate that the prophecies concerning the precious stone were fulfilled, not in Peter, but in the Son of God, Jesus Christ. It was Jesus who applied the prophecies of Isaiah and Psalm 118 to himself, as Matthew 21:42-45 shows.

Peter himself, as we read at 1 Peter 2:4-8, considered Jesus, and not himself, to be the foundation stone. On a previous occasion, when speaking to the Jewish religious leaders, he confirmed that “Jesus Christ the Nazarene” was “the stone that was treated by you builders as of no account that has become the head of the corner.”​—Acts 4:10, 11.

The apostle Paul was of like mind, as can be seen from scriptures such as Romans 9:31-33,; 1 Corinthians 10:4, and Ephesians 2:20, this last verse confirming the fact that the members of the Christian congregation are “built up upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, while Christ Jesus himself is the foundation cornerstone.” He is also ‘the head of the congregation,’ which he guides from the heavens. “I am with you all the days until the conclusion of the system of things,” said Jesus.​—Ephesians 1:22; 5:23; Matthew 28:20; Colossians 1:18.

Peter​—Pope or One Among Equals?

What instrument did Jesus use in directing the work of his faithful followers after his ascension to heaven? Did he nominate one of them as his “vicar” with supreme powers, like the pope? No, he did not establish a monarchical form of government over the congregation. Rather, he committed the care of the flock to a body, or group, of faithful servants. At its beginning, the Christian congregation was guided by the entire body of the 12 apostles, along with elders in the Jerusalem congregation.

It was the 12 apostles, collectively, who decided how to provide for the material necessities of needy ones. (Acts 6:1-6) The body of 12 also decided who should be sent to the Samaritans after they had accepted the good news, and Peter and John were chosen. On this occasion, it would appear that Peter, far from making decisions on his own, was simply one of those “dispatched” by the apostles.​—Acts 8:14.

Finally, it was during the assembly held in Jerusalem circa 49 C.E. that “the apostles and the older men” decided on the basis of the Scriptures that it was not necessary to circumcise the Gentiles who had been converted to Christianity. (Acts 15:1-29) From the historical account, it is clear that it was not Peter but James, the half brother of Jesus, who presided at that assembly. In fact, he concluded the proceedings by saying: “My decision is not to trouble those from the nations who are turning to God.” (Acts 15:19) Would James have been able to speak of ‘his decision’ if Peter, who was present, held the primacy among the apostles?

The apostle Paul, speaking of the various ministries that contributed to the upbuilding of the congregation, did not mention the so-called magisterium of the pope but rather the collective service of all the apostles.​—1 Corinthians 12:28; Ephesians 4:11, 12.

Because of his zeal and initiative, Peter doubtless played a “considerable” role, as Alberigo writes. Jesus gave him “the keys of the kingdom of the heavens.” (Matthew 16:19) He used these symbolic keys to open up to Jews, Samaritans, and Gentiles the opportunity to enter into the Kingdom of the heavens. (Acts 2:14-40; 8:14-17; 10:24-48) He was also given the responsibility of ‘binding’ and ‘loosing,’ a task he shared with the other apostles. (Matthew 16:19; 18:18, 19) He was to shepherd the Christian congregation, something that all Christian overseers must do.​—Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 5:2.

However, because of their Christian qualities, apostles other than Peter were also “outstanding.” Paul spoke of “the ones who seemed to be pillars” of the congregation, referring to “James and Cephas [Peter] and John.” (Galatians 2:2, 9) Jesus’ half brother James played a particularly important part. As mentioned previously, he presided at the Jerusalem assembly, and there are various accounts that confirm his notable role.​—Acts 12:17; 21:18-25; Galatians 2:12.

God bestowed great power on Jesus’ faithful disciples, including the ability to perform miracles. But nowhere do we read that he empowered them to make infallible utterances. As faithful as he was, Peter committed errors. He was reproved by Jesus, and on one occasion the apostle Paul corrected him in public.​—Matthew 16:21-23; 26:31-34; Galatians 2:11-14.

Only the Scriptures are infallible, being the Word of God. Peter spoke of “the prophetic word” to which to pay attention as to a shining lamp. (2 Peter 1:19-21) If we are to know God’s will, then we must entrust ourselves to his ‘living’ Word. (Hebrews 4:12) Only God’s Word, and not an ambiguous definition by religious leaders, offers the certainties that mankind so badly needs. In our time also, Christ Jesus is using a group of his servants, fallible but faithful, collectively called “the faithful and discreet slave.”​—Matthew 24:45-47.

Who represent this symbolic slave on the earth today? An accurate study of the Bible can help you with the identification. Jehovah’s Witnesses will be glad to assist you.

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Who was the foundation stone​—the faithful Christ? Or Peter, who denied him three times?

Young People Ask . . .

How Can I Cope With Racial Prejudice?

The museum was just a few miles from their home, and since the two 11-year-old boys had only enough money for the admission fee, they had elected to walk.

To reach their destination, they had to cross a large street that served as the town’s barrier between blacks and whites. As they ventured across that divider without incident, they began to relax and enjoy the summer sun. But seemingly out of nowhere came a large group of white youths. Brandishing sticks and hurling racial slurs, the mob began to chase them, yelling, “Get them! Get them!”

RACIAL prejudice. News reports show it to be a worldwide problem. Discrimination in housing, employment, and medical treatment are thus common complaints.

Sooner or later, then, you may stand face-to-face with racial prejudice. Some youths, for example, are victims of bias in school​—subjected to unending racial slurs, treated condescendingly by teachers. “My teacher will ridicule me in class,” says one Jewish youth. “He will bring up old prejudices and beliefs. He will also totally ignore me in class.” Says a teenage girl named Pamela: “Prejudice in our school is an epidemic because every time we have an assembly program blacks sit on one side and whites sit on the other side of the auditorium.”

Fifteen-year-old Trena, the child of an interracial marriage, often feels caught in a virtual vise of prejudice. She says: “If I associate with blacks, then the white students feel I don’t want to be with them. However, if I associate with the white students, the blacks feel that I think I am better than they are.”

How Victims of Prejudice Feel

Perhaps you too have experienced being passed over for a job, denied entrance to a school you wanted to attend, treated impolitely in a store or a restaurant, or harassed by peers. If so, you know that prejudice hurts. Says 17-year-old Lucy: “Prejudice really angers me.” Being of Spanish background, Lucy well knows how frustrating prejudice can be. “Even though I do my work and get good grades in school, I never get recognition. If a white person does well, my teacher praises him. But no matter how hard you work, if you are not white, it is not good enough.”

Other youths react to prejudice with quiet resignation. Says one teenage girl who is black: “In my school, most are white, and I get along with the kids pretty well. They do call me names, but I don’t really mind because I’m used to it now.”

Yet, some allow the cutting remarks and condescending attitudes of others to crush their self-esteem. Says one young man: “My mother and father were of two different races. As I grew up, I was looked down on by both sides. As a result, I have suffered much mental and emotional damage. I can remember at times being ashamed of my color.”

Coping With Prejudice

Understandably, then, racial prejudice can ignite feelings of rage, a desire to retaliate, to get even, to rise up in rebellion! “Mere oppression may make a wise one act crazy,” says Ecclesiastes 7:7. But while violent revolutionary movements may call attention to injustices​—in some cases even provide a measure of relief—​history shows that the results of such movements are, at best, temporary. Besides, “hatred is what stirs up contentions.” (Proverbs 10:12) So responding to hate with hate inevitably makes a bad situation worse!

The Bible says: “That which is made crooked cannot be made straight.” (Ecclesiastes 1:15) Human rulership is bent beyond hope. (Jeremiah 10:23) The most sweeping governmental reform cannot erase the basic causes of prejudice: selfishness, greed, and a desire for self-exaltation. (Compare James 3:13-16; 4:1-3.) And as a proverb puts it: “Even if you should pound the foolish one . . . , his foolishness will not depart from him.” (Proverbs 27:22) Rising up against the establishment thus changes little.

How, then, should a youth react when confronted with prejudice? Here are some suggestions:

Avoid overreacting. Sensitized by past experiences, you may naturally tend to react to anything that smacks of bias. However, the Bible cautions: “Do not hurry yourself in your spirit to become offended, for the taking of offense is what rests in the bosom of the stupid ones.” (Ecclesiastes 7:9) So give others the benefit of the doubt. Perhaps race is not really at issue.

Understand the nature of prejudice. Says Proverbs 19:11: “The insight of a man certainly slows down his anger.” Try to understand that bigotry is bred into some individuals from childhood. (See “How Can I Overcome Feelings of Racial Prejudice?” appearing in the November 8, 1988, issue of Awake!) It may also help to talk matters over with an understanding adult, perhaps your parents.

Remember, too, that “the whole world is lying in the power of the wicked one” and that Satan has “blinded the minds of the unbelievers” so as to divide mankind. (1 John 5:19; 2 Corinthians 4:4) Realizing that the minds of people are enslaved, you can even feel compassion for those who act out of dense ignorance.

Do not “return evil for evil.” Being the victim of a racial slur or being subjected to a tasteless dose of racial “humor” can arouse strong feelings. Recalls a 16-year-old girl named Tara: “I went to a school that was predominantly white. The kids would whisper to one another​—but loud enough so I could hear—​all kinds of racial slurs.” It may be most tempting to lash back. But remember: Those inflicting the hurtful comments often want you to get angry and retaliate, giving excuse to inflict physical harm or further verbal abuse upon you. Well does Proverbs 14:17 say: “He that is quick to anger will commit foolishness.”

So try to keep cool in spirit. Keep in mind the words of an ancient wise counselor: “Don’t pay attention to everything people say.” (Ecclesiastes 7:21, Today’s English Version) “If I had really listened to them,” recalls Tara, “they would have driven me crazy. But I did not let it get to me.” So squelch the impulse to “return evil for evil.” (Romans 12:17) “Do not answer anyone stupid according to his foolishness, that you yourself also may not become equal to him,” advises the Bible. (Proverbs 26:4) ‘Turning the other cheek’ by ignoring the abuse is not cowardly but is, in the long run, the most practical thing to do. (Matthew 5:39) In time your tormentors may tire of their childish game. And “where there is no wood the fire goes out.”​—Proverbs 26:20.

Know when to speak up. Not all injustice must be quietly endured. There is “a time to keep quiet and a time to speak.” (Ecclesiastes 3:7) And it may be wise for you to take steps to protect yourself. Tara thus informed her parents of the abuse she was receiving. In time she was able to attend another school. Another situation may involve someone who constantly irks you with clumsy attempts at racial humor. Perhaps that individual really does not appreciate how obnoxious such speech is. Talking matters over in a kind and calm way with the offender just may set him straight.

Do not lose your self-esteem. If others hold you in low esteem, never forget that God has ‘numbered the very hairs of your head’ and that you are considered as valuable in his eyes. (Matthew 10:30) Build your self-esteem, not upon the opinions of godless youths, but upon having a solid friendship with God. (Compare 1 Corinthians 1:31.) Your racial features, which may be a target of ridicule by your peers, are a manifestation of the enormous creativity of the God who “made out of one man every nation of men.”​—Acts 17:26.

Of course, only Jehovah God can bring about a “color-blind” society, which he will soon do by means of his heavenly government. (Daniel 2:44) In the meantime, apply Bible principles as best you can and try to cope with the situation. Enjoy the association at congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses, where you can be with individuals who are working hard to rid themselves of racial bias. Do not hesitate to implore your heavenly Father for help when the going gets rough. Says young Lucy: “I have to pray and pray hard to cope with prejudice. But when I have to endure it, I say my prayer, and I know Jehovah is with me.”

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Some youths feel they are overlooked in school because of racial prejudice

Treading in the Steps of the Incas

“AWE-INSPIRING!” “It’s so majestic!” “I feel as if I’ve been taken back in time.” These were our sentiments as we were overwhelmed by the panorama of the legendary lost city of the Incas, Machu Picchu, in Peru.

Although I had previously visited Machu Picchu, seeing it again with my wife, Elizabeth, and with our good friends Baltasar and Heidi proved to be a memorable experience.

Our trip to Machu Picchu began in the fascinating city of Cuzco, the former capital of the ancient Incan empire, some 11,000 feet [3,400 m] above sea level. This city, designed in the shape of a puma by the Inca ruler Pachacuti, is still replete with Incan architecture of unique beauty. Many of the buildings in the main square sit solidly on ancient Incan foundation stones. These stones, which had been set to perfection without mortar, are often five or more feet [1.6 or more m] tall and weigh several tons. As Spanish chronicler Cieza wrote: “It baffles the mind . . . how they could be brought up and set in place.” Yet, we had been told that Machu Picchu would far surpass anything we had seen so far.

Tortuous Journey

We got up early that Friday morning and left the San Pedro station in Cuzco at seven, excited to be finally on the train to Machu Picchu. The train seemed to have been around for many years but executed the switchbacks with ease as we made our descent of over 4,000 feet [1,200 m] from Cuzco to the perimeter of the Amazon jungle. During the four-hour journey to Machu Picchu (which means “old peak”) along the course of the Urubamba River, the scenery changed before our eyes. As we descended from the arid mountains and altiplano, the land became more and more green with vegetation, until we were soon in the midst of mountains covered with luxuriant foliage.

On the train, we talked about what we had read about Machu Picchu and what we knew of its history. Led by a boy, in July 1911 American explorer Hiram Bingham discovered this lost city. The boy was to show Bingham “nearby ruins” in the tropical forest on the peak called Machu Picchu. But, as Bingham wrote, “suddenly, without warning, under a huge overhanging ledge the boy showed me a cave beautifully lined with the finest cut stone.” When the boy showed him a wall, “it seemed like an unbelievable dream. Dimly I began to realize,” he said, “that this wall and its adjoining semicircular temple over the cave were as fine as the finest stonework in the world.” To think we were going to see that stonework also!

The purpose of this isolated citadel, probably built some 500 years ago, is still unknown. One theory holds that it was a refuge for Virgins of the Sun, perhaps because most of the chambers that Bingham uncovered contained the remains of females. Another theory is that the city served as a military outpost. Some have also suggested that it could have been an imperial retreat or a refuge to which the Incas fled from Spanish conqueror Pizarro’s hand. Or it could have been the capital of Vilcabamba, a new Inca domain established by Manco Inca in the impenetrable Amazon jungle. Whatever the truth behind the city of Machu Picchu, we were anxious to see these fascinating ruins at 6,750 feet [2,060 m] above sea level.

When we arrived at the foot of Machu Picchu, we knew that the lost city was above us, but we could see nothing as we got off the train. We hurried to get in line for the 20-minute bus ride over hairpin turns up the mountain. Yet, even as we were winding our way up the mountain and straining to catch a glimpse of the ruins, we could see nothing at all.

Endless Steps and Stones

After checking in at the hotel (the only modern building on the mountain), we finally reached the entrance gate of the ruins. What we saw as we rounded the corner took our breath away. The view was unbelievable. Elizabeth said, “I’ve seen photographs, but pictures just can’t do justice to this place.” Two thousand feet [600 m] below, the Urubamba River flowed along the bottom of the mountain range. In every direction, we saw green mountain peaks of majestic beauty, making us feel very insignificant. Against all this awe-inspiring background was the lost city itself, standing as a sanctuary, undefiled by conquerors, creating an eerie feeling of wonder.

The ruins showed a city constructed entirely of stone, a masterful combination of granite, geometry, and maximum utilization of the unusual terrain. Most of the buildings are one-story structures and, according to modern historians, of late Incan design. There is an abundance of niches in the interiors of the rooms. The doors, windows, and niches have trapezoidal patterns​—narrowing at the top—​an identifying feature of late Inca architecture. In the center of the city is a large open space, perhaps the main plaza, surrounded by terraces, shrines, lodgings, and steep stairways. Some of the walls reveal beautiful stone finish, the pride of Incan workmanship.

As we walked from one extremity to the other of this unique set of ruins, we began to appreciate its size. It took us over an hour to walk from one end to the other, not counting the time it takes to climb to the summit of peak Huayna Picchu. Because of the mountainous terrain, there are steps everywhere, over 3,000 of them. Even the terraces around the edge of the city, used for raising crops and grazing animals, have protruding stones that serve as steps from one level to another. It is estimated that the city covers an area of five square miles [13 sq km]!

We were impressed by the well-preserved condition of the ruins. When Bingham discovered them, no physical evidence was found that any battles were fought there. And we could see that the city looked as though it had been abandoned, not conquered. It is yet unknown how the Incas were able to move such massive stones there, since they had no knowledge of the wheel. But the stones were perfectly cut and set into place. The ruins, carefully mapped out into sections, still speak of a well-organized civilization.

Alone With the Llamas and the Stars

As the day tours departed in the early afternoon, Machu Picchu was left to the few overnight hotel guests. Our mood was contemplative as we roamed the ruins and watched the sunset in solitude. While walking around, Heidi and Elizabeth spotted a baby llama and its mother in one corner of the ruins. Llamas are burden-bearing animals used extensively in Peru, strong enough to transport loads weighing about 80 pounds [35 kg] but too frail to carry a man. At first the llamas seemed disturbed by our wives’ presence, but Heidi and Elizabeth were determined to get a close-up picture of these beautiful animals that looked so at home among the ruins. They did not want to upset them too much, since llamas protect themselves by spitting their acid saliva, so the girls slowly made friends. Heidi was even able to feed the mother llama some of the nearby grass.

Later on in the evening, we grabbed our sweaters and headed out for the starry night, away from any artificial light from the nearby hotel. Now the only discernible light came from the stars of the heavens. We thought of Jehovah’s majesty. Then we thought of the people who, four centuries earlier, had lived on this mountain and had looked up at those same stars.

The Incas and the Conquistadores

Early the next morning, before sunrise, we were back at the ruins. We heard the melancholy tones of a panpipe being played in the background. How we soaked up the beauty and the atmosphere of Machu Picchu before the day tours arrived!

As we rested among the ruins and contemplated all that we had seen, Baltasar commented on the tragic results produced by a religion that is not guided by what the Bible really teaches. (Matthew 7:15-20) The Spanish conquistadores, in the name of their Catholic religion and because of their insatiable greed, brought to ruin a complete civilization. They did this without learning how the Incas lived. Since the Incas had no written language but used quipus, long strings with knots to keep statistical records, data on harvests, weapons, births, deaths, and so forth, the Spanish conquerors’ destruction of the quipus left few records of the Incan culture.

The Incas Will Return!

Remembering Jehovah’s promise of a resurrection, Elizabeth and Heidi commented on how wonderful it is to know that people from a civilization that was totally destroyed could have the opportunity to live again. (Acts 24:15) To think that we may actually meet some of the ancient Incas and learn of their culture firsthand! We may even have the privilege of teaching some of the Incas who lived in Machu Picchu about the true God and his purpose for them.

Our two days in Machu Picchu came to an end as we began our return trip to Cuzco. We took with us beautiful memories of a unique city high atop a mountain, a city now remembered only by ruins. Although the Spanish conquered the Inca empire, they never discovered Machu Picchu. But we were happy that we had found the lost city of the Incas.​—Contributed.

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Machu Picchu, ancient city of steps and terraces

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Machu Picchu (old peak), high in the Andes Mountains, with Huayna Picchu (young peak) in the background

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Without the wheel, the Incas moved massive hand-hewed stones for their buildings

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Typical Inca dwelling with trapezoidal architecture, narrowing at the top

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A lone llama in the ruins of Machu Picchu

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The Urubamba River, 2,000 feet [600 m] below Machu Picchu

Crossword Puzzle

Clues Across

1. The one time each year when the high priest was allowed to enter the Most Holy [2 words] (Acts 27:9)

6. Non-Hebrew word meaning “the Lot” (Esther 9:24-26)

8. Son of Othniel, the first-named judge of Israel after Joshua (1 Chronicles 4:13)

11. A name shared by two of David’s mighty men (1 Chronicles 11:28, 40)

12. To feel curiosity or doubt (Acts 2:7)

13. Noah was the first to see one (Genesis 9:12-17)

15. Residue of what is consumed by fire (Lamentations 4:5)

17. Word used to focus attention (Isaiah 8:22)

18. Where Samuel kept the oil with which he anointed David as king (1 Samuel 16:13)

19. A city in the mountainous region of Judah (Joshua 15:52)

20. Fruit that grows in clusters (Song of Solomon 7:7)

22. Weapon used to kill Goliath (1 Samuel 17:50)

24. Name of a constellation (Job 9:9)

26. Symbol of long life (Isaiah 65:22)

27. Expression of surprise (Isaiah 18:1)

28. Earlier than the present time (Acts 10:30)

31. One of seven sons born to King Jehoiachin in Babylonian exile (1 Chronicles 3:18)

33. The only leper cleansed by Elisha (Luke 4:27)

34. High priest noted for his laxity (1 Samuel 2:27, 29)

35. Forefather of the Ammonites (Genesis 19:38)

37. Asher and he were Jacob’s sons by Zilpah (Genesis 30:9-13)

38. Death must precede this gift (1 Corinthians 15:42)

Clues Down

1. Repugnant item [2 words] (Ezekiel 7:19)

2. Largest living bird (Job 39:13)

3. Seventh letter of the Greek alphabet

4. Paul’s was tentmaking (Acts 18:3)

5. His was the final offering presented at the inauguration of the altar of the tabernacle (Numbers 7:83)

6. City in Cyprus where Paul encountered opposition from sorcerer Bar-Jesus (Acts 13:6)

7. Jesus Christ made this possible (Romans 5:11)

9. Number of witnesses needed to establish a matter (John 8:17)

10. Unrestrained outcrying (Zechariah 11:3)

14. A leading Levite who took part in proclaiming repentance in Ezra’s day (Nehemiah 9:4)

16. “--- has fallen!” (Revelation 14:8)

20. Part of the site where Moses gave his farewell speech (Deuteronomy 1:1)

21. “Happy is the able-bodied man that ----- refuge in him” (Psalm 34:8)

22. Confirmed (Ephesians 1:13)

23. The portion of the communion sacrifice given to the priest (Leviticus 7:32)

25. His nephew Jether died without sons (1 Chronicles 2:32)

29. A vegetable yearned for by the Israelites in the wilderness (See Numbers 11:5.)

30. City conquered by the Assyrians (Isaiah 10:9)

32. The number of true gods (1 Corinthians 8:4-6)

36. Sever (Leviticus 1:15)

CROSSWORD SOLUTIONS PAGE 25

Answers Across

1. ATONEMENT DAY

6. PUR

8. HATHATH

11. IRA

12. WONDER

13. RAINBOW

15. ASH

17. LO

18. HORN

19. ESHAN

20. DATES

22. SLING

24. KESIL

26. TREE

27. HA

28. AGO

31. HOSHAMA

33. NAAMAN

34. ELI

35. BENAMMI

37. GAD

38. INCORRUPTION

Answers Down

1. ABHORRENT THING

2. OSTRICH

3. ETA

4. TRADE

5. AHIRA

6. PAPHOS

7. RECONCILIATION

9. TWO

10. HOWLING

14. BUNNI

16. SHE

20. DIZAHAB

21. TAKES

22. SEALED

23. LEG

25. SHAMMAI

29. ONION

30. CALNO

32. ONE

36. NIP

Religion’s Future in View of Its Past

Part 3​—1942-1513 B.C.E.​—Egypt—​Battlefield of the Gods

“Beneath and above everything in Egypt was religion.”​—Will Durant, 20th-century author and historian.

EGYPT’S original settlers were descendants of Noah’s son Ham, most likely through Ham’s son Mizraim, Nimrod’s uncle. (Genesis 10:6-8) After the confusion of languages at Babel, the unsuccessful tower builders scattered to make a new beginning, taking along their Babylonish religion. Some of those frustrated builders settled in the area that became known as Egypt.

In The Story of Civilization, Will Durant speaks about “the derivation of certain specific elements of Egyptian culture from Sumeria and Babylonia.” Thus, Babylonia’s religion left a deep mark on Egypt, and religion became a dominant factor in Egyptian life. The New Encyclopædia Britannica says: “Cultural and social life were so deeply permeated with religious ideas that an understanding of Egyptian culture is impossible without an understanding of Egyptian religion, and vice versa.”

Inconsistent and Contradictory

Egypt’s religion was polytheistic, characterized by over 500 gods, and possibly twice that many. “Throughout Egypt generally the company of gods of a town or city were three in number,” says Egyptologist E. A. Wallis Budge. In time, a principal triad developed, a holy family composed of Osiris, the father; Isis, the mother; and Horus, the child.

Polytheism resulted in several gods’ claiming to be ‘the sole god.’ But priests and theologians evidently saw no problem in believing in one god and at the same time viewing him as existing in a multitude of forms. Author B. Mertz comments that this “is only another example of that pleasant inconsistency which is so characteristic of Egyptian religion.”

Animals were often used to represent attributes of gods or even the gods themselves. But French author Fernand Hazan claims that these animals were more than symbols, being considered worthy of reverence “because they were the focal point of good or harmful divine powers.” Thus, it is not surprising that a Roman citizen was reportedly lynched for killing a cat and that mummified bodies of dogs, cats, crocodiles, falcons, and bulls have been found in Egyptian graves.

Ritualism, mystery cults, and magic practices were deeply entrenched in Egypt’s religion. So also was the use of religious images and symbols, such as the symbol of life, the crux ansata. These were given such prominence, says The New Encyclopædia Britannica, that “individual faith (i.e., personal piety) was never of primary importance.” It adds that among images, “that of Isis with the child Horus on her lap, perhaps the prototype of the Madonna with the Child, is the most noteworthy.”

The Egyptians believed in life after death. They mummified their dead and preserved the bodies of dead pharaohs in impressive pyramids. Ancient graves have yielded, as one author puts it, “such pathetic but significant vanities as cosmetic palettes, beads, and pots which once contained food and drink.”

Ten Blows in a Countdown to Destruction

In 1728 B.C.E., something happened that would have dire consequences for Egypt and for its religion. About two centuries after a man named Abraham visited Egypt, his descendants moved there to escape the consequences of a serious famine. (Genesis 12:10; 46:6, 7) Known as Israelites, they remained there for 215 years. This set the stage for a battle of gods, a multitude of Egyptian gods on the one side and the sole Israelite God, Jehovah, on the other. When the Israelites asked permission to leave Egypt to worship Him, things rapidly came to a head.

Egypt’s ruler, the pharaoh,a a title derived from the Egyptian word for “great house,” rejected their request. Jehovah then expressed his purpose to exercise his power in a miraculous way in behalf of his people. (Exodus 7:1-6; 9:13-16) By bringing a series of ten blows upon Egypt, he challenged its gods in a face-to-face confrontation.​—Exodus 12:12.

The first blow turned the Nile River, Egypt’s lifeline, into blood, killing its fish and forcing the Egyptians to dig for drinking water. (Exodus 7:19-24) What a disgrace for Hapi, god of the Nile!

The frog was a symbol of fertility, and the book The Gods of the Egyptians tells us that “the Frog-god and the Frog-goddess were believed to have played very prominent parts in the creation of the world.” So the plague of frogs, besides embarrassing such fertility gods as Osiris, Ptah, and Sebek, even humbled the Egyptian gods of creation.​—Exodus 8:1-6.

The magic-practicing Egyptian priests were unable to duplicate the third blow as they had the first two. (Exodus 8:16-18) Thoth, lord of magic, had lost his magic touch. And Geb, god of the earth, was unable to prevent “the dust of the earth” from turning into pesty gnats.

Starting with the fourth blow, a line of demarcation was drawn between Goshen, the location of the Israelite community in Lower Egypt, and the rest of the country. While Goshen was untouched by the plague of gadflies, other sections of Egypt were brought to ruin. (Exodus 8:20-24) Buto, a tutelary goddess, and the god Horus were clearly unable any longer to control happenings in that part of the land for which they were responsible​—Lower Egypt.

Hathor was a cow-headed goddess. Nut, the sky goddess, was also depicted as a cow. How humiliating for both when pestilence caused “all sorts of livestock . . . to die” in blow number five!​—Exodus 9:6.

Thoth is said to have known “all the magic formulas necessary to heal the sick.” And Amon-Ra, says the 70th stanza of a poem written in his honor, was a physician “who dissolves evils and dispels ailments.” But both of these quack healers were unable to prevent “boils with blisters [from] breaking out on man and beast,” even upon “the magic-practicing priests,” in blow six.​—Exodus 9:10, 11.

The gods Shu, Reshpu, and Tefnut helped control the weather. But no more than today’s weather forecasters could they prevent the thunder and hail that in blow seven pelted man, beast, and vegetation and that “shattered all sorts of trees of the field.” (Exodus 9:25) What the hail failed to destroy was eaten up by the locusts of blow number eight. (Exodus 10:12-15) What a defeat for Min, god of the harvest, who, holding a thunderbolt in his right hand, supposedly controlled thunder and lightning! Both slipped from his grasp during these two plagues.

“A gloomy darkness began to occur in all the land of Egypt for three days,” a ninth blow. (Exodus 10:21, 22) Ra, the sun god; Sekhmet, the goddess who wore the solar disk; and Thoth, the moon god, literally had their lights put out.

And what an outcry when the Egyptian firstborn were suddenly struck dead, leaving “not a house where there was not one dead,” including the “great house” of Pharaoh! (Exodus 12:29, 30) Since Pharaoh was a supposed offspring of the sun god Ra, the unexpected death of his firstborn was equal to the death of a god. What a stunning defeat for Bes, protector of the royal house, and Buto, defender of the king!

Disgraced and humiliated​—not once but ten times—​fevering for vengeance, Pharaoh and his troops rushed madly in pursuit of the departing Israelites. (Exodus 12:37, 41, 51; 14:8) In honor of little-known Pharaoh Ni-maat-Re, an ancient poem once boasted: “Fight on behalf of his name . . . There is no tomb for a rebel against his majesty, and his corpse is cast into the water.” But as regards the Pharaoh who had experienced a divine countdown to destruction, it was his own corpse that landed in the water. “Pharaoh, the incarnation of the god Horus here on earth, heir to the kingship of Atum, son of the sun god Re [Ra],” as a reference work calls him, had perished in the Red Sea at the hand of the Israelite God against whose majesty he had rebelled.​—Exodus 14:19-28; Psalm 136:15.

Did This Really Happen?

Significantly, The New Encyclopædia Britannica, although claiming that the Exodus account contains “legendary elements,” nevertheless admits that “present-day scholars tend to believe that behind the legends there is a solid core of fact.” In speaking about the difficulty of dating Egyptian dynasties from lists of kings, Britannica also says: “The weakness of these lists as historical records is that they include only the names of kings deemed worthy of honour; many modest and certain unpopular rulers are wholly overlooked​—expunged from the record.”

In the face of such historical inaccuracy and manipulation of facts, is it surprising that this devastating defeat for Egypt and her false gods was simply “expunged”? This becomes evident when we remember that those who recorded history did so under the tutelage of priests, whose chief interest, obviously, was maintaining their position and upholding the glory of their gods.

In view of those ancient events, the future bodes no good for anyone upholding modern-day counterparts of Egypt’s religion. Only those who practiced true religion​—the Israelites and a number of their Egyptian companions—​survived the battle of the gods unscathed. Great things were now in store for them, this “Nation Set Apart, Unlike All Others.” Read about it in part 4 of this series.

[Footnotes]

[Box on page 22]

How Would You Answer?

During the time they were in Egypt, were the Israelites alone in practicing true religion?

No, for “a man blameless and upright, fearing God and turning aside from bad,” lived in neighboring Uz, now Arabia. His name was Job. He underwent severe trials of integrity, likely sometime between Joseph’s death in 1657 B.C.E. and the raising up of Moses as Jehovah’s faithful servant.​—Job 1:8.

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The pharaohs were regarded as incarnations of the gods

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Courtesy of Superintendence of Museo Egizio

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Some pyramids were extravagant burial tombs of pharaohs

Sweet Treats From Trees

The North American Indians were the first to show the white men how to do it​—get sweet treats from trees. The Indians taught the early European settlers in Canada the art of making a sweet syrup from the sap of maple trees. But it was not until the year 1706 that the first authentic record of Canadian maple syrup and sugar production began. Now it is a multimillion-dollar industry for Canada.

Here are two sweet treats you may want to try:

MAPLE FUDGE

2 cups maple syrup

1 cup plain or crunchy peanut butter

1 teaspoon vanilla

Heat maple syrup to 234° F. (112° C.) until a drop will form a soft ball in cold water. When lukewarm, add peanut butter and vanilla. Beat until it starts to set, then pour quickly into a pan. When cool, cut into squares.

MAPLE PUDDING

2/3 cup uncooked rice

Pinch of nutmeg

2 eggs, slightly beaten

1/4 teaspoon salt

2/3 cup maple syrup

1/2 cup seedless raisins

1 1/2 cups milk

Cook rice in boiling salted water until tender; drain thoroughly. Combine eggs and maple syrup and blend well. Stir in milk, nutmeg, and salt, then rice and raisins. Place ingredients in a buttered casserole and bake in a moderate oven, 350° F. (177° C.) until set (60-70 minutes). Makes 6 to 8 servings.

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Besides tasting good, maple syrup is rich in carbohydrates and contains the beneficial minerals calcium, phosphorus, iron, and potassium

[Credit Line]

U.S. Department of Agriculture

The Bible’s Viewpoint

What Is the Purpose of Life?

MANY who have achieved fame and fortune have found that their “success” did not guarantee happiness. Something was missing in their life, but what?

Those too busy earning a living or making a name for themselves to worry about why we are here, could get a shock on attaining their sought-after goal. With newfound prestige, life can suddenly get disoriented and wearisome if it lacks a noble purpose. This point impressed wealthy King Solomon: “I, even I, turned toward all . . . that I had worked hard to accomplish, and, look! everything was vanity and a striving after wind, and there was nothing of advantage.”​—Ecclesiastes 2:11.

Many of us would be delighted to accomplish a fraction of the projects this brilliant and energetic king had to his credit. (Ecclesiastes 2:4-9) Apparently, though, even today our personal success is “not strongly related to over-all happiness,” according to Columbia University (U.S.A.) researchers. What does help? “Confidence in one’s guiding values,” their study finds, “a belief that life has meaning.” Sadly, all too many people quit searching for such meaning and think instead of ending their life.

Suicidal thoughts, in fact, troubled one in every three top-ranking American students, according to a 1987 survey. Why? Because these apparently successful student leaders felt personally worthless, under pressure to achieve, or isolated and lonely. Yes, to feel happy with ourselves, we need a sense of self-worth​—a meaningful life, a superior goal in life, or simply a good reason to live.

We Are Here for Good Reason

You never have to look far for proof that life is no accident. Think deeply about commonplace things​—the intricate design of a leaf, the birth of a baby, the awesome universe. The natural conclusion is inescapable that someone designed these things for a reason. “His invisible qualities are clearly seen . . . by the things made, even his eternal power and Godship.”​—Romans 1:20.

So people ask, “Why are we here?” Canadian physician William Osler hit on the basic answer when he said: “We are here to add what we can to life, not to get what we can from it.” (Italics ours.) One Christian, pressed for an answer in 25 words or less, replied: “I suppose you could say we’re here to make the earth a paradise.”a (Genesis 1:28; 2:8, 15) But​—make a paradise? Are we humans equal to such a task?

We Have Only Just Begun!

Our present life span allows us barely to scratch the surface of what we are designed to do. Think of the 100 billion or so nerve cells and other cells in your brain. The number of connections that these cells can make with one another is an estimated 10 ⁸⁰⁰. This number is a staggering 10 ⁷⁰⁰ times the number of atoms in the universe! Imagine what you could learn and do if you could travel at leisure, take an eternity to study subjects that interest you, and develop talents or skills of your choice. What potential for human enrichment might lie untapped in each of us?

But if you had unlimited time and assets with which to develop your capabilities, could you avoid getting bored? Yes​—by discerning, as Solomon finally did, that self-gratification quickly gets tiresome!

Solomon’s remedy? “Remember, now, your Grand Creator,” he counseled. Otherwise, the days will inevitably come when you will say: “I have no delight in them.” Similarly, Jesus said: “There is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving.”​—Ecclesiastes 12:1, 13; Acts 20:35.

The Key to Satisfaction

Thus, Jesus reasoned that life has two great priorities, first to “love Jehovah your God” and second to love “your neighbor as yourself.” This agrees with everything we know about the interdependence of animal and plant life. Since all these lower life-forms are made to depend so much on one another, does it not make sense that we humans with our vast potential are made to cooperate with one another and serve the very Source of life, Jehovah?​—Matthew 22:37-39; Psalm 36:9.

Endless loving accomplishments​—bonding our relationship with people and with God—​will keep our lives meaningful forever. This happy giving is the key to a satisfying life now and in the coming “new earth.”​—Isaiah 65:17, 18.

[Footnotes]

[Box on page 27]

Everlasting Life​—Boon or Curse?

Physicist-author Dr. Robert Jastrow was asked, “Would everlasting life be a boon or a curse to mankind?” His reply? “It would be a blessing to those who have curious minds and an endless appetite for learning. The thought that they have forever to absorb knowledge would be very comforting for them. But for others who feel they have learned all there is to learn and whose minds are closed, it would be a dreadful curse. They’d have no way to fill their time.”​—Times-Advocate, Escondido, California, February 19, 1984.

[Picture on page 26]

The human brain was designed to serve us eternally

From Our Readers

“Tasty” Article

I want to express my appreciation for “Cooking Vegetables​—Chinese Style.” (May 8, 1988) I prepared a meal following the suggestions in the article and was praised by my family for it. I hope you will continue preparing such “tasty” articles.

R. G. O., Brazil

Running Away

In “Is Running Away the Answer?” (March 22, 1988), you did not deviate from your tradition of using advanced societies as a focus. When shall a less fortunate society like Africa begin to get your attention? To me, your suggestion to the solution was myopic and discriminatory. You failed to point out that this predicament originates from the materialistic tendencies and ambitions of some parents today. This writer is a victim. A few years ago when my pocket was buoyant, I became the pet child of my parent, but when circumstances turned it impecunious, I was disdained. In short, it was my mum who ruined my fortune. You should unequivocally condemn the materialistic attitude of some parents nowadays.

T. T., Nigeria

This article was second in a series on runaways. The first article (February 22, 1988) acknowledged that unreasonable conditions do exist and that, at times, parents are to blame. “Awake!” makes an effort to maintain an international flavor. Our cover topics of March 8, 1987, and June 22, 1988, dealt specifically with African concerns from African sources. Many individual articles have also done so.​—ED.

I hope every young person reads your “Young People Ask . . ” articles. I especially appreciated “Should I Run Away From Home?” (February 22, 1988) I was thinking about it, and I have changed my mind.

C. H., United States

Awake! Appreciated

As a regular reader of Awake!, I greatly admire your excellent way of presenting problems so that everyone can understand. This is quite uncommon in so-called intellectual circles. I also admire your generosity, your desire to contribute to man’s happiness without any profit to yourselves, for your publications are distributed with practically no margin, and you do not take collections as many others do.

J. B., M.D., France

I am 16 years old, and I am a Muslim. However, I enjoy the interesting articles for kids and their parents. I wish more kids my age would take a look at things you have to say. Your books make a lonely night a bit more bearable. Thanks for including us kids.

F. R., United States

I appreciate the deep insight you give to all sorts of problems that arise in life, along with the fine counsel. All other religions have inconsistencies, but the teachings in your publications never conflict. They are logical and, above all, accurate. What makes me most happy is that little by little I feel my life becoming more enjoyable as I change from the empty way of life I have led until now to one that is worthwhile.

M. O., Japan

Watching the World

Severe Food Shortages

Late last year, flooding and droughts throughout China led about 20 million of the nation’s inhabitants to face severe food shortages, reports Beijing’s China Daily. According to an official with the Ministry of Civil Affairs, unusually severe natural disasters causing major crop damage also threatened another 80 million people in rural provinces. It is estimated that some 114 million acres [46 million ha] of land used for agriculture were damaged over a nine-month period by drought, freezing temperatures, and extensive flooding of the Yangtze River.

Religious Decline

“About one in five of the world’s 5.14 billion people do not believe in God​—or in any god or gods,” says the magazine Asiaweek. “Either that or the faith of their forefathers plays no part in their lives.” It is estimated “that about 840 million people practise no religious observances and that an additional 230 million consider themselves unbelievers.” Many belong to a church in name only, and more are now avoiding organized religions. “According to a recent Gallup survey, 78 million Americans do not belong to a church or synagogue or attend only on infrequent special occasions, up from 61 million in 1978,” says Psychology Today. “But even among regular churchgoers, the survey points to a growing disaffection with church practices.” A majority feel that too much time is spent on such matters as money raising. About 25 percent said they turned away from churches in search of “deeper spiritual meaning.”

Peace Hopes Grow

“Suddenly, a season of peace seems to be warming the world,” says a New York Times editorial. Certainly, new and unusual hopes for world peace have dawned this past year. Five bitter and prolonged regional wars started to wind down and were brought closer to a peaceful resolution during 1988. Conflicts in the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and Central America that were boiling hot at the beginning of the year had cooled enough toward the year’s end for peace processes to begin. The Times commented: “Rarely have so many such wars seemed to be drawing to a close at once.”

Stress From Lack of Work

Stress brought on by boredom and a lack of work leads to sickness, inefficiency, and personal problems asserts BUPA, a British private health insurance group. The group claims that some overworked employers refuse to delegate work, while, at the same time, their underworked employees are not inclined to ask for more work. Sickness and absenteeism claim an annual toll of 360 million lost workdays, notes The Times of London, and some companies could be spending as much as from 7 to 10 percent of their wage bills on sick pay.

Best Climate Spots

“There are only a few spots on the globe where people can expect to feel comfortable all year,” states The Daily Yomiuri, a newspaper of Japan. Most suffer from winters that are too cold or summers that are too hot, or both. Reporting on a worldwide temperature and humidity study, Takeshi Kawamura of Tsukuba University, who headed the study, stated that the majority of the comfortable locations are in Africa and Latin America, with the Ethiopian plateau, the Cape of Good Hope at the tip of the African continent, and the northern Andes Mountains in Peru highly recommended. Also good is the coastline from South Africa up to Namibia, the southwest coast of Australia, and Mexico’s plateau region. The worst location for heat and discomfort, he said, is in the Persian Gulf area.

Germany’s Suicides

The suicide rate has risen sharply in the Federal Republic of Germany. Alcoholism, drugs, and unemployment were cited as major causes by the German Society for Suicide Prevention at its annual meeting in Regensburg. However, experts also found serious indications suggesting that a tendency toward suicide is inheritable, reports the German newspaper Schweinfurter Tagblatt. The country reportedly has 13,000 suicides and half a million suicide attempts each year.

Children’s Greatest Fears

While children’s greatest fear is that of their parents’ dying, the second is the fear of nuclear war, says Dr. Bohdan Wasilewski, professor of psychosomatic medicine at Warsaw University in Poland. Speaking during a visit to Australia, he claimed to have seen children as young as six in fear of the prospect of nuclear war. “When young people have problems they can’t solve, like the threat of war, they tend to escape from life to take alcohol and drugs and even consider suicide,” he said. Some other common symptoms include increasing neurotic problems and a lack of interest in the future and in education.

Spider Silk

Have you ever marveled at how a spider’s web stretches without breaking when flies hit it at high speed? Engineers looking for materials that are both light and resilient have long envied spider’s silk. Now, however, British biotechnologists have patented a method of isolating the gene sequence that is responsible for the web silk’s unusual properties. And by injecting these instructions into a special bacterium, they claim they can produce silk to order, reports The Times of London. They claim the material has the potential for use in the manufacture of bulletproof jackets for the police and armed forces, as well as for commercial uses.

Child Soldiers

“The world’s armies include about 200,000 youths, some as young as 12 years of age,” states The New York Times. These findings are contained in a report from a subcommission of the UN Human Rights Commission. Some of the youths have been forcibly conscripted by their governments, while others have been urged by their parents to enlist in order to gain jobs and food, and for the family to receive payment if the child dies in battle. Thus, a number of countries have violated the international law that stipulates 15 years of age as the minimum for recruitment into the armed forces.

Chance of Nuclear War Increasing?

As more and more nations develop nuclear weapons, the chance that they may be used in regional conflicts is rising. “The big-power [U.S., U.S.S.R., France, Britain, China] monopoly on nuclear weapons is ending,” reports Newsweek. “Four other countries [India, Israel, Pakistan, and South Africa] have reportedly built atomic warheads​—and developed the means to deliver them—​and others are not far behind.” Said one government official: “I don’t know of any time when there have been more countries pursuing the nuclear-weapons option.” And another added: “The danger of nuclear war is rising . . . because of what smaller or less industrialized nations are doing.”

Most Forested

“What’s the world’s most heavily forested country?” asks Asiaweek. “Canada? Norway? Brazil? No, it’s Japan.” “In the ratio of forest to total area, no other major or middling country comes close.” A full 67 percent of Japan​—145,841 square miles [377,727 sq km]—​is covered with forest, mostly evergreens growing on mountain slopes. Houses and apartments for the 38.9 million households occupy just 2.5 percent of the land, and factories and other industrial sites only 0.4 percent.

“A Whole Universe Inside the Skull”

“The human brain is a whole universe inside the skull. It is the only human organ that has practically unlimited possibilities,” stated Soviet scientist and brain specialist Natalya Bekhtereva.

For those possibilities to be explored, the brain has to be used and exercised. And the most vital study to which man can apply his mind is that of the brain’s Designer, Jehovah God.

Thus the wise proverb writer stated: “If you keep seeking for it [wisdom] as for silver, and as for hid treasures you keep searching for it, in that case you will understand the fear of Jehovah, and you will find the very knowledge of God.”​—Proverbs 2:1-5.

Do you use your brain to find that precious “knowledge of God”?

‘To Wipe Away Her Loneliness’

A man on a work assignment in the sultanate of Oman wrote the branch office of the Watch Tower Society in India. “A few days back,” he said, “I happened to see the book Happiness​—How to Find It in the house of one of my friends here. Needless to say, the book as a whole is a real asset. To be frank, this small book influenced me a lot, and I want to present this very loving book to my wife as a wedding anniversary gift to wipe away her present loneliness. Kindly favour me by sending a copy of this book to my wife on my behalf as early as possible. Her address is given above.”

This 192-page book not only provides encouraging help on dealing with stressful situations but points the way to the lasting solutions to problems of life.

Please send me, postpaid, the hardbound book Happiness​—How to Find It. I enclose $1 (U.S.).