Generalized Conclusions

So recently I have had a couple conversations where the concept of every "religion" (or ancient faith system) is the same or equally reliable. Generally we deny such a claim before we think about why, which is not to say that we are wrong to do so. So I spent a little time thinking about the subject and how to deal with it all. It is true that their are widespread records of events like the flood. It is true their are similarities between names and even spiritual rule sets in some cases (but the deeper you look the less they match). I think people have a tendency to see a similarity and either immediatly take it as if it were a dead on match or they reject it outright from fear. That's really not the way to do it, IMO, as it helps no body in terms of clarity.

Anyway, after thinking about it for a while it all seemed to boil down to about three very basic options, maybe four, as to why things in different faiths overlap at times.

A. Satan has had his hands deep in the spiritual lives of those not of the chosen people and all those who have chosen to step away from Gods original design. (True and can be diagramed)

B. Many if not most of these ancient religions have been created by the same God but on different terms for the different peoples. Different teachings mixed with similarities. Different events, visions, and prophecies which all lead to the same God. (False and can be defended)

C. That the reason for the similarities is that all people came from one line and one God originaly so each time a group divides away from the main they take with them essentially the same history. Likewise they would all be effected by things such as the Flood and would consequently have some form of record of them. (Likely considering the history of the world)

*D. This is the holding pen for those ancient religions which do not share any real link to the main topic. Those which worship nature, self, incarnate deities, or other worldly entities. These are sort of out of the discussion as they were never really in the discussion. (N/A)

In the end, each ancient faith and event must be excruciatingly scrutinized over for accuracy and intent before drawing conclusions and the truth of the matter is their are very few of us who are truly capable of this task. Whether because of a lack of accurate resources or natural ability. None the less if we, the normal folk, are to develop our own opinion on a topic like this we need to invest some time in understanding the other faiths as well as how to discern truth from fiction. Not an easy task on either account.