Pro-Christian Anime

Postby **Mave** » Sun Apr 08, 2007 12:11 am

To Mave, an anime series is either accurate on Christianity or not.

In addition to that, being accurate on Christianity doesn't necessarily make it pro-Christian.

Nonetheless, if Superbook was created for the sole intention of teaching Christian teachings, I suppose Mave would be more open to accepting that label.

Postby **Epidemic Xero** » Mon Apr 09, 2007 9:35 pm

Nate wrote:The manga is a lot worse. Though since this thread is about anime, not manga, I guess the manga doesn't count. XD But yeah, Trigun is actually really tame. It's a series I wouldn't mind showing to younger kids (not like, 6 or 7 year olds, but 11 or 12 year olds).

Yah, the manga is somewhat more objectionable in a way, since:
[SPOILER]Wolfwood's cross-punisher is the weapon-of-choice of a plant-worshiping cult, rather than just a symbol for being a priest. --and it IS far more violent.... I haven't read the whole manga yet (only read up to #9 so far), but those seem to be the most objectionable parts of it. [/SPOILER]
But, they still hold the same basic themes as the anime. I personally think the manga is turning out to be better than the anime in terms of plot and character depth, actually. The most objectionable content is still attributed to the villains, so it doesn't really bother me.
I had no idea Mr. Nightow converted to Catholicism! O_o If it's true, that's really interesting.

Anyway, back on topic....
I agree that many anime use Christian symbols just to look cool--and there are those rare few that actually seem to take it somewhat seriously..but, it's very rare. For example, I was really hoping Trinity-Blood would have stronger Christian themes in it, but it was mostly used as plot devices to look and/or sound cool. *sigh* It could've been so much more...but eh, what can ya do.

Naruto (I haven't seen nearly all of it), while not specifically Christian at all, has tons of great themes in it. I know this probably wasn't intentional, but the whole parallel between Naruto and Gaara's character reminds me so much of someone with salvation versus someone who needs it. But yah---Just my interpretation--it probably wasn't originally intended. :sweat:

Still, there are plenty of great themes in that show, which is one of the main reasons I've been enjoying it so far.

I'm not really sure where Eureka 7 stands spiritually, but I do remember some aspect of the Bible being discussed in some episode....Just thought that was interesting. (I also thought it was interesting that the obligatory religious organization didn't end up being completely evil....They usually are.) But, E7 has some great self-image messages that I thought were awesome. Literally made me go "Aww..." sometimes. :sweat:

(Plus, it has to be the only anime I've seen in which the obligatory scantily-clad female consciously makes a decision to wear more tasteful clothing. )

So yah...Maybe those weren't specifically Christian themes, but they're still good themes. And that's always....well, good. :sweat:

--and I happen to love Superbook. :lol:

Postby **Debitt** » Mon Apr 09, 2007 10:09 pm

I'm curious as to how you could expect an anime to have "stronger Christian themes" when those producing it don't know much about Christian themes to begin with. Even if they do go to the amazing effort to research, how could one expect them to apply those themes to the series if they don't sincerely believe them? It's like expecting someone who's Muslim to churn out a series that's spot on and sincere about the tenets of Buddhism. Not trying to be contrary, of course, I'd sincerely like to hear.

Postby **Epidemic Xero** » Mon Apr 09, 2007 10:35 pm

Kokoro Daisuke wrote:I'm curious as to how you could expect an anime to have "stronger Christian themes" when those producing it don't know much about Christian themes to begin with. Even if they do go to the amazing effort to research, how could one expect them to apply those themes to the series if they don't sincerely believe them? It's like expecting someone who's Muslim to churn out a series that's spot on and sincere about the tenets of Buddhism. Not trying to be contrary, of course, I'd sincerely like to hear.

That's true---Poor choice of words on my part, I guess. :sweat:

I wasn't really expecting it, I guess I kinda just hoped for it even though I knew it probably wouldn't happen.

Postby **Fish and Chips** » Mon Apr 09, 2007 11:10 pm

Nate wrote:The manga is a lot worse. Though since this thread is about anime, not manga, I guess the manga doesn't count. XD But yeah, Trigun is actually really tame. It's a series I wouldn't mind showing to younger kids (not like, 6 or 7 year olds, but 11 or 12 year olds).

I've read up to 11 volumes of Trigun Maximum and caught the whole show in my spare time. Don't worry, I know exactly what you mean (Nine Lives comes to mind).

Postby **King of Fighter** » Fri Apr 20, 2007 9:12 am

Trigun probably would be pro-Christian. Another that might be, but it's on the DnD list, so I can't really mention it because of the risks of whatever it might cause.

Postby **ilikegir33** » Fri Apr 20, 2007 2:06 pm

Although it may not seem like it Trinity Blood is very pro-Christian. Ms. Blanchett takes Christianity very seriously.

Postby **AsianBlossom** » Sat Apr 21, 2007 4:21 am

I just say this: if there isn't a pro-Christian anime out there, make one!

I don't think you have to be Japanese to make an anime.
*Now back to your regularly scheduled thread, lol*

Postby **Mitsukai** » Sat Apr 21, 2007 7:13 am

AsianBlossom wrote:I just say this: if there isn't a pro-Christian anime out there, make one!
I don't think you have to be Japanese to make an anime.
*Now back to your regularly scheduled thread, lol*

Amen to that.

Postby **Raiden no Kishi** » Sat Apr 21, 2007 7:53 am

To answer an objection, the reason I rate Trigun as having good Christian themes is largely because of some of Vash's values, specifically a respect for life and self-sacrifice. Those values, while it can be argued that they are not exclusive to Christianity, align strongly with Christ's teachings.

As far as "objectionable content" goes, let me ask you this: is presenting a sterilized, super-super-clean world which is, because of the creator's desire to have no "objectionable content, completely unrealistic and hard to relate to [Many Christian films, I'm-a lookin' at you] necessarily the ideal?

.rai//

Postby **mitsuki lover** » Sat Apr 21, 2007 11:46 am

To me being Pro-Christian doesn't mean that the characters have to necessarily BE
CHRISTIAN or anything of the like.To me something that one would considered
Pro-Christian would be an anime that would exampify Christian themes or virtues.

Postby **Danderson** » Thu May 03, 2007 6:32 pm

mitsuki lover wrote:To me being Pro-Christian doesn't mean that the characters have to necessarily BE
CHRISTIAN or anything of the like.To me something that one would considered
Pro-Christian would be an anime that would exampify Christian themes or virtues.

That makes Sonic X a perfect choice....

Well, besides the fact that I'm a big fan of this anime (meaning that I'm biased), I'd say that there are a lot of Christian virtues that are presented in this anime, with the main character, Sonic

, being one of animes best role models. Here's why:

1. He never complains...He rarely get's mad...
2. He lets tomarrow worry about itself...
3. He uses his skills and abilities to help others...(though this is a common hero thing)
4. (Big ONE) He doesn't show faveritism towards any of his friends (even though some of them would like to spend all their time with him...mainly Chris and Amy). And he's not one that'd you'd call a loner...
5. He's always encouraging others, instead of tearing them down...
6. Dispite his carefree atitude, Sonic shows constantly that he cares for each of his friends...

Sad thing is, Sonics' not even a Christian... :shady:

...Yet, he has a better attitude and shows more concern towards others then most Christians...

Postby **Mitsukai** » Sat May 05, 2007 5:26 pm

Danderson wrote:That makes Sonic X a perfect choice....

Well, besides the fact that I'm a big fan of this anime (meaning that I'm biased), I'd say that there are a lot of Christian virtues that are presented in this anime, with the main character, Sonic , being one of animes best role models. Here's why:

1. He never complains...He rarely get's mad...
2. He lets tomarrow worry about itself...
3. He uses his skills and abilities to help others...(though this is a common hero thing)
4. (Big ONE) He doesn't show faveritism towards any of his friends (even though some of them would like to spend all their time with him...mainly Chris and Amy). And he's not one that'd you'd call a loner...
5. He's always encouraging others, instead of tearing them down...
6. Dispite his carefree atitude, Sonic shows constantly that he cares for each of his friends...

Sad thing is, Sonics' not even a Christian... ...Yet, he has a better attitude and shows more concern towards others then most Christians...

Eh, well, how do we know Sonic isn't a Christian?

Perhaps he is.

Either way, he is a great example in my opinion, and that's why I make sure that the children in my life see a lot of Sonic. :lol:

Heh heh, my personal favorite is Shadow though, lol.

Postby **Jih** » Sat May 05, 2007 5:34 pm

By pro-Christian do you mean the show's made by Christians? Cause you're out of luck if that's what you're looking for. There are plenty of virtuous secular characters out there. Roruni Kenshin is the only anime I can think of at this moment that has lots of "good" messages.

Postby **AsianBlossom** » Sun May 06, 2007 3:54 am

(Sorry, had to say this) Yay!! More Sonic fans!! (And Shadow fans too

)

But yeah, I can see what you're getting at. Although I'm not sure Christianity would've reached Sonic's planet, but you never know...what with Eggman having relatives from Earth and having reached Sonic's planet anyways...

Postby **Fish and Chips** » Sun May 06, 2007 4:16 am

Mitsukai wrote:Eh, well, how do we know Sonic isn't a Christian?

Perhaps he is.

Ryan Drummond, the original voice of Sonic (in the games), was a Christian. Met him once. Nice, personable fellow.

And though it pains me to say this...I think we need a better example of pro-Christian Anime than Sonic X. Not because it's a bad example, but because Sonic X, eh...let's just say I caught a bunch of episodes when it was "Brand new," and I'm not a fan.

Still waiting for the true Sonic Anime conversion.

Postby **Debitt** » Sun May 06, 2007 1:36 pm

mitsuki lover wrote:To me being Pro-Christian doesn't mean that the characters have to necessarily BE
CHRISTIAN or anything of the like.To me something that one would considered
Pro-Christian would be an anime that would exampify Christian themes or virtues.

Except a lot of 'Christian' themes and virtues that don't involve salvation through Christ aren't really exclusive to Christianity. So while you could call a series like that moral or whatnot, I don't know if you could label it 'pro-Christian'.

Postby **MomoAdachi** » Sun May 06, 2007 1:36 pm

Perhaps Full Metal Alchemist and Saint Tail? I dunno...

Postby **Mitsukai** » Mon May 07, 2007 5:04 pm

AsianBlossom wrote:(Sorry, had to say this) Yay!! More Sonic fans!! (And Shadow fans too )

Fish and Chips wrote:Ryan Drummond, the original voice of Sonic (in the games), was a Christian. Met him once. Nice, personable fellow.

What Sega did to Ryan Drummond sucks imo.

He would have moved to a different location to keep his role as Sonic, but they didn't even give him the chance.

The new Sonic games lack the depth they used to have as well, and what's with the Arabian elements? o.o

Kokoro Daisuke wrote:Except a lot of 'Christian' themes and virtues that don't involve salvation through Christ aren't really exclusive to Christianity. So while you could call a series like that moral or whatnot, I don't know if you could label it 'pro-Christian'.

True.

This statement will offend a lot of people, but not everything morally sound is "Christian".

A good example of this are the teachings of Chinese monks.

I have learned a lot from them, despite our differences in opinion regarding religion.

It would be foolish to disregard their wisdom simply because it didn't come from someone of the same religious view as myself.

I glean through everything, and I "keep" what agrees with my spirit and I "toss" everything else.

As for Christian Anime, I don't think there is such thing...yet.

However, there is a revival sweeping through the youth of Japan.

They have seen their parents and grandparents lead atheistic lives, and they yearn for something more.

They know there is more to life than the tangible, than what can be seen, and they hunger for it.

Oddly, I think modern anime has helped fuel this desire.

The desire for the divine and the spiritual.

There is no doubt in my mind that as these children grow up and become the future face of Japan that there will indeed be true Christian anime.

MomoAdachi wrote:Perhaps Full Metal Alchemist

Full Metal Alchemist?

I certainly hope not....that would be one skewed view of Christianity.

Postby **Fish and Chips** » Mon May 07, 2007 6:37 pm

FullMetal Alchemist actually isn't particularly Christian-esque outside of the influence of Dante's Seven Deadly Sins, and perhaps certain moral values. The religious issues therein reflect most religions in general.

Postby **Animus Seed** » Tue May 08, 2007 10:27 pm

Mitsukai wrote::)
Full Metal Alchemist?

I certainly hope not....that would be one skewed view of Christianity.

"Sin has consequences, man should not play god, sin must be atoned for, and greater love hath no man than laying down his life for his brother/friend"?

How is that skewed?

Postby **Mitsukai** » Wed May 09, 2007 5:24 am

Animus Seed wrote:"Sin has consequences, man should not play god, sin must be atoned for, and greater love hath no man than laying down his life for his brother/friend"?

How is that skewed?

The use of alchemy and blood magic doesn't seem very Christian in my opinion.

Alchemy is related to Necromancy, Esotericism and Taoism, and has been referred to as the "bridge between witchcraft and science".

"Sin has consequences, man should not play god, sin must be atoned for, and greater love hath no man than laying down his life for his brother/friend"

All of the above are found in other religions in addition to Christianity, including Taoism, which shaped most Asian cultures, even the highly secular Japan.

All of the above could have stemmed from 德 (De).

With all that said, I do not hold anything against that show, and I'm sure it does indeed have some merit for being morally stimulating .
I simply would never call it Christian.

Postby **Fish and Chips** » Wed May 09, 2007 9:02 am

Mitsukai wrote:The use of alchemy and blood magic doesn't seem very Christian in my opinion.

Alchemy is related to Necromancy, Esotericism and Taoism, and has been referred to as the "bridge between witchcraft and science".

And we all know just how un-Christian blood is.

Alchemy was a viable historical science, fore running numerous modern-day concepts (Chemistry, Metallurgy, Medicine, etc...). Although there can be philosophical and spiritual elements attached, this does not inherently make it anti-Christian]"Sin has consequences, man should not play god, sin must be atoned for, and greater love hath no man than laying down his life for his brother/friend"

All of the above are found in other religions in addition to Christianity, including Taoism, which shaped most Asian cultures, even the highly secular Japan.

All of the above could have stemmed from 德 (De).[/quote]
And would you apply this same argument towards Kenshin? All religions on Earth share some part of the truth, their individual failings being that they do not recognize all of it. But that does not make what truth they admit any less valuable, to us or them. Christianity believes that life is precious, and that teaching is no less valid when practiced by Himura Kenshin. The fact that the Manga doesn't specifically tie his belief into any specific spirituality only makes its message more universal. Bhuddism teaches "Do not do unto others what you would not have them do unto you," mirroring Jesus' own teachings on the subject, though Jesus phrased it differently. Does that make the value of this insight any less potent? No.

Mitsukai wrote:I simply would never call it Christian.

It really all depends on what you read into it. From one angle, I agree with you, but from another I do not discount its relevance.

Postby **Mitsukai** » Wed May 09, 2007 3:14 pm

Fish and Chips wrote:And we all know just how un-Christian blood is.

I know what communion is for goodness sake. x.x

Anyway, this little forum isn't a good fit for me.

You people know very little of anything spiritual at all, which was why I came here in the first place.

I'll happily go back to my favorite secular anime forums, because the people there are nicer, and also because I expect them to know nothing of religious matters.

Sure, I'll have to wade through the hentai and the yaoi, but at this point, I really don't care. :shady:

Postby **Fish and Chips** » Wed May 09, 2007 3:48 pm

Mitsukai wrote:I know what communion is for goodness sake.

Clearly, this little forum isn't a good fit for me.

Touchy today, are we? I apologize for the misplaced sarcasm then. However...

Mitsukai wrote:You people know very little of anything spiritual at all, which was why I came here in the first place.

Um, wow. Did you even read my rebuttal? Or even anyone elses words on the site?

Mitsukai wrote:I'll happily go back to my favorite secular anime forums, because the people there are nicer, and also because I expect them to know nothing of religious matters.

Hey, whatever battens down the hatches.

Postby **AsianBlossom** » Wed May 09, 2007 3:54 pm

Um...I don't want to start anything (or get entangled in anything here) but please, people...be polite. I'm sure no one wants this to turn into a debate or anything that would start offending people and causing them to leave, so...could we perhaps not belittle people or shoot down their comments? Or be sarcastic unless it's clearly for the sake of humor?

Sorry, I know I'm not anyone in authority, but I don't want to see anyone offended, and I don't want to see a topic locked because of hostility or the beginnings of a debate.

So Mitsukai, please don't leave the CAA just yet, and Fish and Chips, please be kind. (Sorry, don't want to offend anyone, but I don't want anyone else to offend anyone either)

Postby **Mitsukai** » Wed May 09, 2007 4:14 pm

Fish and Chips wrote:Um, wow. Did you even read my rebuttal? Or even anyone elses words on the site?

Hey, whatever battens down the hatches.

Forget battening down the hatches, building a storm shelter would offer far superior protection, lol.

Yes, I read your rebuttal, and probably would have gotten a lot more out of it if it weren't for you insulting my intelligence by posting a link to the wikipedia article regarding communion.

When I was talking about blood magic, I was talking about the occult, not Christianity.

Do I have anything against Fullmetal Alchemist? No.

But, I seriously doubt it qualifies as a Christian show, plain and simple.

AsianBlossom wrote:Mitsukai, please don't leave the CAA just yet

I seriously think it's for the best that I leave.

I disagree with so many of the people here...and since religion is the one thing I feel is worth arguing about, I would just cause a bunch of trouble.

Postby **Mr. SmartyPants** » Wed May 09, 2007 4:24 pm

Mitsukai wrote:But, I seriously doubt it qualifies as a Christian show, plain and simple.

No one is arguing that it is a Christian show. We're just saying it has a lot of Christian themes and elements. By the same token, lots of religions incorporate the same themes as well. Obviously it has it's "unchristian" elements to it, but all Fantasy is like that.

Postby **Cognitive Gear** » Wed May 09, 2007 4:27 pm

Mitsukai wrote:But, I seriously doubt it qualifies as a Christian show, plain and simple.

Fish and Chips wrote:FullMetal Alchemist actually isn't particularly Christian-esque outside of the influence of Dante's Seven Deadly Sins, and perhaps certain moral values. The religious issues therein reflect most religions in general.

I think this should settle this debate here. As far as I can tell, you both actually agree on this subject; it's just that somewhere along the way there was some miscommunication.

Postby **Fish and Chips** » Wed May 09, 2007 4:46 pm

Mitsukai wrote:Yes, I read your rebuttal, and probably would have gotten a lot more out of it if it weren't for you insulting my intelligence by posting a link to the wikipedia article regarding communion.

Duly noted, but such a judgemental course of living is going to leave you stranded in a sea of options.

Mitsukai wrote:When I was talking about blood magic, I was talking about the occult, not Christianity.

Yes, thank you for reminding me of what I was already well aware of.

Mitsukai wrote:Do I have anything against Fullmetal Alchemist? No.

And I never said you did.

Mitsukai wrote:But, I seriously doubt it qualifies as a Christian show, plain and simple.

I have a case to make about that, but I'll save it for when things have cooled down.

Mitsukai wrote:I seriously think it's for the best that I leave.

I disagree with so many of the people here...and since religion is the one thing I feel is worth arguing about, I would just cause a bunch of trouble.

If that's your decision, I can't stop you.

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