I’ve never been for obsessing over worldly items or things. In fact, the last book on the Potter series warns against allowing your weakness of wanting, taking, and using wrongly to control your life. I do strongly believe that there is Christian symbolism in all of the books, especially the last one (I have posted serveral posts on the topic on my blog). Rowling, herself, claims to be a Christian. She refused to give details away of her faith because she knew it would spoil the ending. I’ll never put the Potter books over the Bible, but I do not think that we should shun the books because some idiots go too crazy over them. The books were merely a series well written and highly enjoyed until I started looking at the CHristian symbolism in them. I’ve found that they’ve given great menaing to my faith and pushed me forward. That is, my faith has made the books mean something to me. I do see the harm in making the books into a fad and joining that fad as you described, but I see no harm at all in discussing the books and learning from them. The site you provided actually seems a good one to me. Besides, why should you hate Harry Potter? It’s a good series. Don’t hate it just because the world loves it and tries to turn it into something evil. Just because an interpretation is evil does not mean the books are evil.

By the way, I forgot to mention that I was one of those who went to get the last book at midnnight (although I never did it for any other books). However, I made a promise to God that while I would be rushing through the final book to find out what happens, I would still take equally as much time out to read my Bible and spend time with the Lord as I did with the Potter book, and I did that. So, I think that the series is good and is full of Christian themes. I think that a love of the series can be tastefully measured. That we can still enjoy the series and get a lot of them, but get even more out of the Bible and our relationship with Christ.

If you are interested, the following link will take you to a post by someone other than me that has a similar opinion to yours (I commented in reply to that post as well).

http://www.sicarii.net/2007/07.....s-hogwash/

@Harmony: There seems to be a trend today where Christians attempt to inject Christian symbolism into just about every secular genre there is, whether in literature or in films. Not even Star Wars survives unscathed, which is apparently so rife with Christian symbolism that one one guy actually wrote a book about it.

However, I made a promise to God that while I would be rushing through the final book to find out what happens, I would still take equally as much time out to read my Bible and spend time with the Lord as I did with the Potter book, and I did that.

Are you suggesting that God is only worth 50 percent of your time, while Harry Potter takes up the other 50 percent? Do you really believe that God would be well pleased with how you’re setting your priorities here?

Regarding Rowling, she stated that she was a member of the church of Scotland. That’s like saying I’m a member of the human race. What does it mean really? In addition, you write that she did not want to disclose her Christian heritage so that the series ending for Harry Potter wouldn’t be spoiled. Remember that Jesus said whosoever would deny Him before men, him would He also deny before His Father in Heaven. It strikes me as odd that Rowling would refuse to proclaim Christ as her Savior just so a book’s ending wouldn’t be spoiled. Well THAT’s certainly a healthy perspective to have in light of all of eternity.

She also started a One Parents Group that seems to devalue marriage and the need for children to have two parents, and prescribes to leftist ideology that would seem antithetical to Christian faith (unless you’re one of them liberal type Christians who take umbrage at this remark of course). On the other hand she donates 1 percent of her billion dollar estate to charity. That’s nice of her.

I wonder about the naivete of Christians today. The Bible used very strong language in condemning witchcraft, equating it with rebellion against God. You would think those who become saved and “put on the new man” would tend to shy away from all appearances of evil. Why make an exception for Harry Potter? Because it’s pure fantasy?

Truthfully, I don’t understand how a work ensconced in wizardry and witchcraft, written by a woman whose Christian beliefs could be described as nominal at best, could lead any person into a deeper understanding and relationship with Christ. Isn’t that what the Bible is for? Why this endless need to supplant Scripture for what is sure to be an inferior alternative?

If you want to read Harry Potter purely for the entertainment value, that’s one thing, and I won’t begrudge anyone having a little bit of fun. But the degree of obsession that I’ve witnessed regarding the Harry Potter phenomenon leads me to believe that there is a much more deeper spiritual issue here than meets the eye. I only wish more Christians would see that.

Bottomline- Harry Potter is not kosher…not even close. Great post, Linc! How ya been?

Kristee

@Kristee: Shalom my friend! I’m still breathing, so as long as I have that there’s always hope.

You might find you aren’t that alone. I, too, am very much against the Harry Potter “phenomenon” so much so I’ve written a piece warning people against it on my blog, and which Harmony has referred to as well.

God bless, and Shalom!

@Sicarii: That’s good to know! Shalom to you as well!

Sorry, but you call yourself a Christian? Do Christians jump on everything and judge it? I know we aren’t all Jesus Christ but you can at least act as if you are a practicing Christian. Do you think it helps the Harry Potter “fad” that people bitch and moan about it? No, because I feel people will probably be more interested in it. Ever heard the saying “What Would Jesus Do?” Why don’t you follow that for pete’s sake? I’m tired of seeing Christians bitching and moaning and being so hypoctrical. People like Harry Potter, get over it! People will always like it and people will always hate it but just because you hate it and you are bitter about it doesn’t mean you have to spread the hatred. Jesus would have been tolerant and patient with the whole Harry Potter thing and I’m sure he knows it isn’t a religion or something! However, you are being bitter and ignorant. Not everyone is going to read the bible 24/7. Christians can read whatever the hell they want when they want. Harry Potter isn’t a sin, it is a book for enjoyment. Unless you are the crazy christian type that believes we should read the bible all day & feel no joy, if you are….get off the computer? eh? My final point is….GET OVER IT.

Ps. I don’t care if I left you a “rude” comment, it is the freakin’ internet.

The Harry Potter books are at least written by a real author. The real waste of time comes from people like you who can’t write. Nothing interesting came from this but I hate I hate. I know why you hate to your a jealous little whiner who has nothing better to do than complain. Maybe you should try to read a book than you wouldn’t be such a ******. Anyway, theres no hatred going on here, lets just say a lack of stupidity. Never mind what people do on their time because it will catch up to you one day. It’s inevitable to not die so, live brother, stop whining.

LOL @ stupid Christians.

I totally understand where you are coming from, however, my son has recently discovered that he likes reading and guess what book hooked him? Yeah. He watched the first two movies and then started reading the books with the third one, he finished it in a week and has started the fourth one without skipping a beat. He will be 11 years old tomorrow and getting him to read in the past was about like getting him to brush his teeth or wash his hands…constant battle!

But that doesn’t mean I’d let him read any ole thing just because he’s interested in it! LOLOLOL

Wow…CA…you let your child read something that glorifies witchcraft, occultism, and secularism? What WOULDN’T you let him read?
Fact is, Satan wants to infiltrate our children’s minds at a young age, before they’ve matured enough in spirituality and Biblical teaching to discern the spirit behind something. As parents, we have that responsibility. Why not substitue HP with the Chronicles of Narnia? It’s just as fairy-tale like, has young heroes, and teaches a Christian world-view.

I agree that we have to be careful what we allow our children to take in. Harry Potter does have some Christian morals and parallels in it with Biblical truths and stories, but that doens’t make it the best choice. I’d stick to Narnia for the young ones. However, you’d be surprised at how some young children can read books like Harry Potter and decipher Christian values in them. But not all children can do this and some may get the wrong idea when they read them. So, the parent should be careful in descerning what their chidlren can handle and understand. I wasn’t allowed to read the HP books until the movies came out (around jr. high for me). By then I was able to discern fact from fiction.

Oh, and I also believe that the efforts people put out against HP would be much better concentrated on books and movies such as the Golden Compas which are more likely to corrupt the minds of children. Golden Compas is an atheist film.

I will admit however, that I was appalled to learn that Rowling is just another Kristin Chenoweth – she supports the gay lifestyle and says Dumbledore is gay.

But that doesn’t mean I’d let him read any ole thing just because he’s interested in it! LOLOLOL

Good, because I was gonna ask you if he’s been reading Playboy lately.

If people just read, that’s one thing, but the degree of obsession people have with Potter is almost worse than the craziness you see from trekkies (crazed Star Trek fans). As William Shatner would say: “GET A #$%^ing LIFE!”

Good ol’ Bill.
Anywho…at the risk of sounding like a looney, I would submit to you that our battles are not with flesh and blood, but against powers, principalities, and spirits in heavenly places… When your central story revolves around spiritualism and witchcraft, I believe you’re inviting those same spirits into your life by indulging in it. Doesn’t mean that you can’t separate fact from fiction, it means that you are giving the enemy greater control over your life, and opening yourself to greater temptation to move away from God.
I think we all agree REAL witchcraft is occultic and non-christian…that you can’t be saved and be a witch, right? Then why would we allow ourselves, and especially our children, to read and enjoy fantasy witchcraft? Would fantasy child sacrifices be okay? Fantasy molestations?
Maybe? As long as it’s done by someone with a funny name with a unicorn next to him?

@Casey: You’re loonie.

You do have a point though, but I’ve given up on this argument. It’s much more rewarding to make fun of overhyped fads and the manic behavior it brings out in people than reason with them.

I find all this very interesting. I haven’t been able to find reasons (such as quotes from the HP books etc.), other than opinions and assumptions that the HP books are in any way against the Christian faith. I would be very interested to learn what the issues are. If it is just the fact that the kids are exposed to magic, then the Narnia books should also be bad, correct? What about the Lord of the Rings books? There is just as much magic in them. I have read all the LOTR books, all the Narnia books, AND the HP books. The only difference I can find is that the LOTR and Narnia books may have been written with Christian parallels in mind (but perhaps not with LOTR), yet the HP books were written as entertainment. Does that mean that Curious George is bad too, because I doubt it was written with Christian ideology in mind either? I have heard that the HP books are bad because they may get kids interested in magic. Isn’t that a good thing? If kids believe in a power outside (and inside) themselves, won’t that open the door for some to believe in the Christian God as well? Please forgive my ignorance. I did grow up in a great church, learned all the parables, etc but I still enjoy the HP series and I feel no evil seeping into my soul.

Sarah, I don’t address the animosity HP books may present against Christianity so much as the mania it causes. The obsession fans have with these books to the point of turning their homes into Harry Potter museums is flat out creepy. It’s just not a healthy way to behave.

Hello!

I would like to begin by saying that I am a Roman Catholic, and I am a big HP fan. In fact, the whole idea of “Witchcraft” in the books according to you is, actually not very accurate. Harry and his friends alwyas use their magic for good, give or take a few circumstances. They are only human. You are human, and I am sure that you have sinned, just as sure as I am that you have felt remorse for them. Harry and his friends feel that way too. Most children are inspired by the good wizards… not the Death Eaters, or Voldemort.

I was very offended by your said hate of “Potterhead Christians”. Jesus doesn’t want us to hate ANYONE. If they are Christians, don’t they have most of the same beliefs as you do? God won’t damn us to hell if they read a certain book.

If people want to turn their houses into “creepy HP museums”, then they can. And how many people have you heard of doing that? I’m sure you’re a fan of something. I agree that sleeping in front of the bookstore is a bit over the top, but being a fan of the books isn’t “unhealthy”.

I was also hurt by this: It’s much more rewarding to make fun of overhyped fads and the manic behavior it brings out in people than reason with them. It wasn’t very funny at all, and you realize that you are hurting the feelings of thousands of people in the world. God doesn’t want people to be mean, or make fun of other people, for a certain likeing, race, religion, or anything. You are being a bully. Haven’t you ever heard of anti-bullying presentations? Bullying isn’t good, and you may not even realize that you are doing it. God also tells us that we are all equal. What you said was degrading, and you put yourself up higher than HP fans.

I also feel that you shouldn’t judge the books, seeing as you haven’t read them. If you wanted to post something like this thread, you should at least read them. Then, if you didn’t like them, you could say, “Does anyone find the mania of Harry Potter a bitt annoying?” There was no need to add the bit about religion. I personally don’t like the Twilight series, and how my friends obsess over it day and night. But I have read the books, and so I can say that I don’t really like them.

Thank you for your time, and I hope that you took my message into consideration.

I think Lincoln, while coming out a bit over the top, was not trying to be hateful or rude to other people, he was simple making the point that it is a sin to put other things over God. While it’s not unhealthy to have an obsession or hobby in one area, it is spiritually unhealthy to have an obsession that crosses the line and keeps you from God.

Jesus doesn’t want us to hate ANYONE…

Would that include Satan? Because you know that guy is really hard to love.

I meant humans.

I can’t stand humans either. They’re such sinners and all.

BTW, even though I haven’t read the books, there’s no rule that says I can only comment on a literary work after reading it. I don’t have to read Mein Kampf for instance to know that it’s going to be a pile of crap.

Besides, my comments were more borne out of observing how people reacted to the release of the last book than the contents therein.

I agree that people can be a bit obsessed with the books, and that putting them first before God isn’t very good at all.

But though it seems that way, if asked, almost all of the Christian readers would choose god over Harry.

Not to be rude, but when I said that I meant humans, I meant that God wants us to love ALL humans… even the ones that we can’t stand. We need to remember that we are all equal. no one should be put down for anything that they like, their religion, colour, gender, etc. We need to respect all of those things about everyone. That is what I was trying to say by that.

I hear what you’re saying, though it’s important to remember that love also “rejoices in the truth.” If we know a particular path or religion will lead to destruction, it’s not an act of hate to tell a person that they should follow another path other than the one they’re on, lest harm should befall them. Of course, there is something to be said for tact, something I never seem to have enough of.

I guess that is right. I understand that you are concerned for the well being of others, and that you think that they should put God before Harry Potter. I agree with that. I just think that you should have put it in a nicer way, rather than using derogitory terms and saying that you hate the people themselves. I can see that you are just trying to be caring and considerate, but I don’t think that most people would see that right away.

Thank you so much for listening to what I had to say!

Thank you so much for listening to what I had to say!

You’re always welcome to comment. While I tend to show my sardonic side more often than not, I do read what others have to say, especially when I get enough hot chocolate in me and calm down a little.

Have a very Merry Christmas!

ROTFL. I’m sorry, it just strikes me as funny that people who take time to preach against HP think they are so amazing themselves.

I understand that you are concerned. I am a large Harry potter fan, but do I have HP bedsheets? No. I think you are suggesting that all people who like Harry Potter are like this. I have been a Christian all of my life, and HP has never made me practice witchcraft. I am under 18, too. Maybe you and Laura Mallory should hook up.

[/two cents]

PS: I don’t mean to offend you in any way, just stating what I think, as you have, too.

Wow! Meh has anyother comment. You say you hate Christian morons who like Harry Potter.

Doesn’t the Bible say you should hate anyone? That if you do, you are hating God himself? Hating your fellow Christians, who try to do their best?

Isn’t that a bit insulting?

Just a thought…

[/two cents]

The Bible says that hating someone is just as bad as killing them…

Seriously, though – you’re about as bad as Laura Mallory – try reading the books before you make judgements about them. I agree with bertiebott12…

People do this with Hannah Montana/Miley Cyrus and Jonas Brothers concerts(all 4 of whom are Christians…the Jonas Brothers’ dad used to be a preacher). You don’t seem to mind that. Nobody’s worshipping them or Harry Potter – you just need a life(along with Laura Mallory).

It’s so cute to see teenagers argue.

Here’s a question though: how often do you read the Bible compared to books like Harry Potter? You DO know what a Bible is, right?

I’ve read through the Bible 2 times altogether, and if you add the page numbers, considering tiny print and thin pages, then I’ve read more words in the Bible than Harry Potter.

I see you’re ignoring my questions above. You say you hate your fellow Christians. The Bible says that if you hate anyone, then you are hating God. Don’t ignore the question.

The Bible is the most sacred and holy book in the world. There is no limit to the # of times you can read it, and still learn more. No one is perfect or has memorized the Bible. Are you saying you are?

And, yes, I do love to argue. Hehe.

Sorry, another answer. I misread the question-how OFTEN do you read the Bible? At least three times a week, while I Read HP once a month. Sorry, just making that clear.

I see you’re ignoring my questions above. You say you hate your fellow Christians.

No, I said I hate Christian MORONS. There’s a difference.

That’s good that you’re reading the Bible a few times a week. If HP was simply a book you’ve read and enjoyed, then this post really has nothing to do with you. Rather, it addresses those who take their admiration of the Harry Potter books (and other similar works) to the extreme.

But, do you still hate them? *points to above post*

Everyone has faults-I know I do-but still, don’t say you hate people. I am an active member of this:

http://www.fanfiction.mugglene...../index.php

site. We discuss the books, and are writers. We write fanfiction.

Just because I like to ridicule certain people doesn’t mean I hate them. There are only certain things I truly hate with a passion, like seafood, bellbottom pants and disco. Ok, maybe not disco…

Humanity tends to really annoy me sometimes. Especially those who feel the need to martyr themselves by degrading others ideas and hobbies. Really, I’m all for being an individualist and a maverick, but I don’t really see why you feel the need to tear down others on your way to self-righteousness… It’s rather bewildering to me really.

But what really annoys me is when people like you start tearing down Christians who happen to be Harry Potter fans. I read Harry Potter! I MUST BE GOING TO HELL! Never mind that it’s a FICTION story… It’s people like you that make me want to become an atheist because you are so closed minded! But what really burns me up is that you are such a hypocrite. By proclaiming your “individuality” you are also proclaiming the fact that you refuse to listen to other people’s worthwhile opinions and therefore you shut yourself out from new experiences! Just a question–do you by any chance also suffer from xenophobia? It’s a valid question seeing how you are so obstinate when it comes to opening yourself up to the opinions of others.

Another thing that interested me was how you said that whatever is mainstream tends to leave “a bad taste in your mouth.” This really disgusted me. Because of your “I-am-holier-than-thou” lifestyle you have really missed out on a normal life, haven’t you? They say that you should never get personal when debating or making a statement, but what you’ve written here shows me A LOT about how you live your life. You choose to shut yourself off from the world simply because you believe that you are better than us; and really, you’re only crippling yourself. Because in this world there are so many people with so many beliefs and what they do shouldn’t have to fall under your tainted scrutiny.

@dragonwings: Would you like me to call you a WAAAAAAAAHmbulance?

I happen to be one of those over thirty Christians you mentioned. I am an avid fan of Harry Potter, and encourge my children to read them too.

My husband thinks I’m nuts because I belong to several HP websites and write HP fanfiction. BUT and this is a big one. It’s my choice. God gave all of us freewill, and he expects us to use it.

You made the comment that you want to be an individual, well if you’re doing or saying things against popular opinion just to be different, then you’re not being an individual. Lots of people have that same view, so that lets the air out of that argument. Want to try a different one?

I have been involved in several character study discussions that parallel the characters of Harry Potter with various people in Real World History, so you cannot say that HP doesn’t draw from real life and experiences.

With no more information than you have on the HP world, you sound like someone who wants to think he knows everything there is to know about something, but really only winds up looking foolish.

My advice to you would be, pick up a copy of the books. You don’t even have to buy them, just go to the Library and check them out. Read them, then come back and put HP down to those of us who actually have read the books.

When I settle down to enjoy a good book, I can pick up HP, or Jane Eyre, or any number of other good books, but what gives you the right to tell us we are idiots, when you’ve admitted you’ve never read any of it? It sounds to me as though you are the idiot, spouting off about things you know nothing about.

The books are great entertainment, and have launched millions of children into reading and Literacy. Say what you want, that is an amazing accomplishment, even if the books weren’t as good as they are.

I happen to be one of those over thirty Christians you mentioned. I am an avid fan of Harry Potter, and encourage my children to read them too.

Get help please.

My husband thinks I’m nuts because I belong to several HP websites and write HP fanfiction.

I like your husband.

BUT and this is a big one. It’s my choice. God gave all of us freewill, and he expects us to use it.

Yep, and mankind can make some pretty stupid choices don’t they?

Lots of people have that same view, so that lets the air out of that argument. Want to try a different one?

Brilliant observation, only thing is I really AM different. I’m a real special one, yessum.

I have been involved in several character study discussions that parallel the characters of Harry Potter with various people in Real World History, so you cannot say that HP doesn’t draw from real life and experiences.

Of course it does, you really think Rowling actually had an original thought when writing these books?

When I settle down to enjoy a good book, I can pick up HP, or Jane Eyre, or any number of other good books, but what gives you the right to tell us we are idiots, when you’ve admitted you’ve never read any of it? It sounds to me as though you are the idiot, spouting off about things you know nothing about.

This is America, we have a constitutional right to call each idiots if we so please. If you don’t like it I have a pillow here you can cry into if you want.

Besides, you seem to have some difficulty reading. I don’t begrudge people who read the books, but the ones who take too seriously. Sort of like Trekkie fans who convert their bedrooms into the bridge of the Starship Enterprise.

The books are great entertainment, and have launched millions of children into reading and Literacy. Say what you want, that is an amazing accomplishment, even if the books weren’t as good as they are.

That’s only a testament to how many dweebs and losers there are on this planet.

But please, feel free to continue coming back here and make pointless arguments. I could use the entertainment.

I have to say this discussion is quite, erm entertaining. I must say though, ITS JUST A BOOK PEOPLE! Sorry but Lincoln does have a right to express the fact that certain people/ things annow him and no one has forced any of us to read this blog (ok well maybe I was asked to weigh in by a friend of mine.) but that’t just it , we all have a right to express whatever we want. I grew up in a Southern Baptist home (my dad was a Deacon) and while he never wore a Klingon outfit, I would consider him a bit of a Trekkie since we had to watch Star Trek (all generations) during dinner.

I do find it funny that someone who claims to hate the series and has never read the books knows a little about them, perhaps, just to make your arguments taken a bit more seriously, you should read them.

As far as Christian symbolism, well the only one I have ever seen is the good vs. evil.

Please. I’m sure I myself could find Christian imagery in the Rocky and Bullwinkle Show if I looked hard enough. “Ooooooo, see Rocky flying and coming to save Bullwinkle?? Just like the Lord Jesus came to save us!”

If you look hard enough you can find it anywhere. Oh and as for that loving Satan comment, yes God expects you to love everyone, it is up to him to judge. Satan was one of God’s beloved Angels, he was just a little on the naughty side.

As far as the obsessed fans go, well I hate to point this out to you but most of them are children or young teenagers. What about all thos Beetles fans? I mean give me a break they were just as bad, and all those GROWN MEN who stand in line for days outside Circuit City or gamestop to get the newest football game or whatever, wait 2 weeks and someone will trade it in at Gamestop, no lines and half the price!

I also must agree, reluctantly, that I do not see much differance in The Chronicals of Narnia and Harry Potter series, they are all just that STORIES meant to entertain. Only the bible and related literature is meant to have a Christian theme. If we are going to judge a few things, then lets just judge them all and start a mass book burning with anything that mentions witchcraft or sorcery, oh wait that’s mentioned in the Bible too.

Oh, and I’m not sure how you expect to do it, but I don’t think you can earn a living off your blog so don’t quit your job just yet.

@jmegray: OMG, FINALLY somebody with a lick of common sense!

Don’t forget the iPhone mania as well. People are just damned crazy is what it is.

BTW, I’m not judging the books themselves (that’s another topic altogether). My thoughts simply reflect a personal commentary on human behavior.

Oh, and I’m not sure how you expect to do it, but I don’t think you can earn a living off your blog so don’t quit your job just yet.

I’ve already earned $100 so far, but $100 a month doesn’t exactly cover cost of living expenses, so I won’t be quitting just yet. It is possible though, it just takes a LOT of hard work (and some luck.)

Okay,
I’ll make a few more observations then.

One, the HP series does not revolve around witchcraft and magic. It uses these as tools to entertain children. The series revolves around choices. You make conscious choices to be nice, and/or helpful. Or to be an idiot who slanders and mocks others for their likes and dislikes.

It shows that not only can you make some bad choices and be FORGIVEN for them, but you can make reparations for them too.

If one more person be it a child or an adult gets that from the HP books, then I think they will have learned a valuable lesson. But in your case, that seems most unlikely. You are too closeminded to learn a real lesson if it was force fed to you.

Two, just what is your bedroom decorated with, since you seem so focused on what others are decorating theirs with.

Three, Fans of any pop culture whatever have varying degrees of what they will and won’t do for that fandom. I, along with bertiebott12 belong to mugglenet and both write fanfiction. That means that we actually write things that get published by others. Not just our own little sites that are devoted to hate and making fun of others.

Four, I am also an Author of my own Original Fiction stories, and I can tell you one thing, it’s hard work getting published. Jo Rowling had more original thoughts on one page of her books than you’ve had on an entire website.

If you have no real arguments to back up your claim, then all you are doing is proving my original point. You are making yourself look foolish in stating an opinion with no basis whatsoever in fact.

When you are left with no argument but insults you show your ignorance, so please continue to make a fool of yourself while the rest of us, HP fans, laugh ourselves hoarse over it. I for one am happy to say I can continue to argue my point without resorting to the insults you started out with from having no acutal facts from which to base an opinion.

If I had not read that you were not maried I would think you were my brother, who was raised in the same household, by the same parents, and now declares himself an athiest.

@jmegray: OMG, FINALLY somebody with a lick of common sense!

Before you get too excited I must tell you that I too have stories posted on MNFF that I have written but the only HP stuff in my house are the books and the movies. However I started writing my stories after being on the forums and meeting wonderful kids and adults, who have a real t7alent and should be encouraged to write. I know the HP phenomonon repels you but you still can’t deny the fact that there are millions of kids around the world thatnow have a love for reading because if you set aside the magic Harry and his friends are just like all kids, with issues and problems and gives kids someone to connect with or a way out of the world, if only while they are reading, that they endure.

I let my 8 year old start to read Book 1 of the series but told him the first time he had to ask me what was going on, I would take it away from him. He made it all the way through the book (that is very tame). He is now asking to read the next one but I don’t think it is age appropriate for him since each book progress with the characters age and the readers age.

We all have things that annoy us (like my 6 year olds obsession with Hannah Montanna) and yes it can be taken to extremes ($1200 for a ticket to a concert for anyone is outrageous.) So while yes you are entitled to your dislike of the HP world and it’s fans I really don’t think they are all Christian Morans. As I stated before, most of them are children or young teens or people who started reading the books when they were tweens. Most kids in this age bracket are not Christian Morans and are still struggling to learn where their faith lies. Yes there are those adults who go too far into the HP world but there are also those who go too far against it.

I know this discussion has turned into something other than what you originally blogged about and it is wonderful to see discussions taking place.

If one more person be it a child or an adult gets that from the HP books, then I think they will have learned a valuable lesson. But in your case, that seems most unlikely. You are too closeminded to learn a real lesson if it was force fed to you.

Two, just what is your bedroom decorated with, since you seem so focused on what others are decorating theirs with.

Disco lights.

I for one am happy to say I can continue to argue my point without resorting to the insults you started out with from having no acutal facts from which to base an opinion.

What point? You’re a thirtysomething year old mom obsessed with a children’s book and even your own husband thinks you’ve gone bonkies. You have to admit it’s rather pathetic.

I had a nice long post here but it got deleted. So I’m gonna write another one, kay?

So first off I’m going to talk about your rather sarcastic and rude comments. Now, I’m an extremely sarcastic person, but I happen to know quite a few of the people these sarcasting and/or rude comments have been aimed toward. So on to the comments. And, I apologiza in advance for any swearing.

I don’t have to read Mein Kampf for instance to know that it’s going to be a pile of crap.

If you’ve never read it how can you already know that it’s crap? I mean, really, that’s just being ignorant. I’ve never even heard of this, but I’d read it before putting it down.

It’s so cute to see teenagers argue.

Sorry if I’m taking this the wrong way, but to me it seems like you’re saying my arguments aren’t really worth anything just because I’m a teen. Well, I’ve got news, we actually do know what we’re talking about! I know, shocking, isn’t it? I mean I’m a major HP fan, as you can see by my name, and I’m also totally into my faith. I go to Church every Sunday, I read the Bible, I try my hardest to live the Commandments and Beatitudes, and I go to a freakin’ Catholic school. I’m pretty sure I know what I’m talking about.

You DO know what a Bible is, right?

Yeah, I do. I know it must be shocking to you, but just because I’m a HP fan it doesn’t mean I’m gonna go and completely drop and forget about my faith.

No, I said I hate Christian MORONS. There’s a difference.

Lovely. Charming really, you only hate MORONS who believe the exact same things that you do except about a FICTIONAL book.

Just because I like to ridicule certain people doesn’t mean I hate them.

Because ridicule is so much better that hating, right? “Do unto other as you would have them do unto you.” Sound familiar?

@dragonwings: Would you like me to call you a WAAAAAAAAHmbulance?

&&

If you don’t like it I have a pillow here you can cry into if you want.

You really think we’re gonna go cry because you’re talking **** about a book. Oh wow, are you sure we’re the ones who need help?

Sorry but Lincoln does have a right to express the fact that certain people/ things annow him

Yeah, he does, and so do we. This was posted where plenty of people can see it. If we want to make comments, we can.

What point? You’re a thirtysomething year old mom obsessed with a children’s book and even your own husband thinks you’ve gone bonkies. You have to admit it’s rather pathetic.

Just and FYI dude, but you really are proving her point that you have absolutely no argumesnt.

Now, I’m perfectly fine with you insulting the Hp books, but what really pisses me off is that you’re dragging my faith into this. Also, pick up the damn book and read it before you decide to talk **** about it. I’m sure people would listen more to someone when they actually know what they’re talking about.

Well, that’s my opinion. Sorry if I offended you in any way, I really didn’t mean to. Now, go try your worst to make me cry with your sarcastic little comments. And just to let you know beforehand, I’m pretty sure you’re gonna call me a hypocrite about the Bible phrase I quoted. I’m just giving you back what you dish out.

Just and FYI dude, but you really are proving her point that you have absolutely no argument.

With some of the crazed comments I’ve been seeing here, I think my point has been aptly proven. If you really think I have no argument you and others are even more detached from reality than I originally figured. It’s rather pointless of me to debate with people who aren’t of a sound mind to begin with, don’t you think?

With some of the crazed comments I’ve been seeing here, I think my point has been aptly proven. If you really think I have no argument you and others are even more detached from reality than I originally figured. It’s rather pointless of me to debate with people who aren’t of a sound mind to begin with, don’t you think?

Um, I was referring to red haired mom’s point that you have no arguments. No your point that all of us HP fans are crazed. And, if believing that you have no arguments means I’m not in the sound mind than you’re more delusional than I am. I mean, insulting isn’t an argument.

Oh, well, if it’s pointless to debate with people not of a sound mind then I might as well stop typing right now.

Whew, you really are a teenager.

Whew, you really are a teenager.

Well, yeah. Generally people who are between the ages of thirteen and nineteen are called teenagers. And yes, I really am one, and I’m proud of it too. And I’d just like to point out that, by the way you’re saying it, is another insult. Yet again proving red haired mom’s point.

Ok, first off I do believe that everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but on that note, what on god’s green earth gives you the right to judge something you have not even read or seen? Are you that thick that you actually think you can judge something you know nothing about? In order for someone to fairly judge something such as a book series or movie series you have to research it, watch it, and see the argument from both sides of the fence. Ranting and raving on your blog about people who read the books and obsess over something that makes their life just a little bit better makes you just as much of a ‘freak’ as us ‘Potter fans’ are, according to you. The books get children to actually put down the video games and read. Anything that can do that is something good. Harry Potter is a way for people to escape from the harsh reality of life. There’s a freaking war going on and people are dying. Husbands and fathers and sons and daughters and mothers and wives are d-y-i-n-g, and if Harry Potter can somehow take their poor families minds off of these tragedies, than way to go for HP. You seem, to me, to be a simple minded person that has nothing better to do than to put others down for liking something while you sit at home on your couch ranting on you blog instead of getting off of your ass and doing something about it.

Saying that we don’t have a ’sound mind’ only shows that you are a judgemental, detached from reality, completely ‘bonkers’ human being, if you can even be called that. Judging others for the specific reason just to hurt them is wrong and makes you a sucky person. Yes, it might not be literarily correct but you are a sucky person. If you actually took the time to sit down and read the books, you would realize that they are very good. They’re just the same as any other book. They engage you, interest you. But you don’t really strike me as the type of person to sit down and read any book for that matter. And pulling religion into this argument is just plain wrong. Religion has nothing to do with the books. In this discriminatory society that we live in today, can we not leave something alone that brings joy to others? I’m assuming that you would be the type of person to be 37 years old and living in your mother’s basement; your primary source of stimulation being your stupid blog. You disgust me.

Sincerely,
A seventeen year old, Harry Potter crazed fan girl that is apparently ‘bonkers’ and has no mind, despite the fact that I achieved a 33 in reading on my ACT. If loving Harry Potter makes me ‘bonkers’ and ‘detached from reality’ then screw reality.

Ooooooookay…..

You know what, maybe I am crazy but is there really such a thing as a sane person in today’s society? At least I actually research something before I rant about it. It just seems to me that you are attacking others opinions for the sake of deliberately hurting them, and that’s wrong. You would think someone with a criminal justice degree would have learned that you have to gather evidence and a search warrant before you burst into someone’s home and attack them, and attacking someone on a blog is just the same thing.

I am also a Harry Potter fanfiction writer at MuggleNet, and I happen to be a Methodist who believes in God and attends church. I have to agree with my fellow authors. As others have said, we are all entitled to our own opinions, which makes us unique. What would life be like if we all liked the same things? You have every right to dislike Harry Potter, just as we have every right to like it. Whether we obsess over it or have Harry Potter paraphenelia in our homes is our business. If it makes us happy, why is it such a big deal? Can’t you just live and let live?

I have heard that you blocked red haired mom from your site. Is it because she proved that you have nothing on which to base your arguments?

You obviously have a lot of time on your hands that could be better spent. Wouldn’t it be more worthwile to do something that could actually help the world, instead of putting down fellow human beings? It’s getting pretty pathetic.

@hermone: Your whining hurts my eyes.

I am also a Harry Potter fanfiction writer at MuggleNet, and I happen to be a Methodist who believes in God and attends church.

Well good for you sweetheart. What do you want, a cookie?

If it makes us happy, why is it such a big deal? Can’t you just live and let live?

I wrote this post last JULY, then moved on. If anyone is making a big deal out of it, it’s the crazed whackos coming from your forum, I would think. I stated an opinion on MY blog, and it’s only by privilege that I allow anyone to express their opinion here as well. You want to start something on my turf, then expect to get bitch slapped at any moment, mmm-kay sugar?

I have heard that you blocked red haired mom from your site. Is it because she proved that you have nothing on which to base your arguments?

Why do some of you insist on making this asinine remark? Really, how stupid are you? Do you actually bother to read what I wrote, or do you just walk around with your heads up your hairy asses? My original point was that people, and Christians in particular, have a tendency to obsess over Rowling’s works. You’re saying there’s absolutely no evidence to back this up? Why not do a simple Google search and read some of the news articles that also comment on the mania surrounding Harry Potter? Here, I’ll even help you out by providing a couple of links:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/.....57240.html
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/ent.....679657.stm

You obviously have a lot of time on your hands that could be better spent. Wouldn’t it be more worthwhile to do something that could actually help the world, instead of putting down fellow human beings?

And wouldn’t it be more worthwhile for you to do the same, instead of trying to defend your obsession to lil’ old me on a relatively low traffic blog, and writing crap knock off fiction that nobody reads anyway?

As for me, today’s my day off, so I obviously had some free time to humor you freak shows. Tomorrow though I will resume my regularly scheduled efforts to save the world.

Really though, this has been fun, but it’s time to move on. Toodles!

aw, you opened it up again – did I hit a nerve?

Well, I hope you’re aware that you’re actually quite obsessed with HP yourself, just at the other end of the scale. While we like it, you hate it with such an obsession that you’re actually becoming a hypocrit.

I totally agree with Evie!

Well, I hope you’re aware that you’re actually quite obsessed with HP yourself, just at the other end of the scale.

I wrote one diatribe on Harry Potter 6 months ago. This is an obsession?

Dude, seriously, what’s with the insults? They’re not gonna make us go cry to our mommies, they’re gonna make us come back and insult you right back. It’s really not the best way to get your point across. And it may be helping you earn money, but it’s also getting the word around about how lame you are and making people bash you. I mean, really, “snot nosed teens and pathetic moms”? Lame much?

And “prepare to get bitch slapped at any moment”? You sound like a wannabe gangsta.

But, whatever, I’m tired of arguing about insults and comebacks, so I’ll leave and stop commenting about your insults. All though, if you call me sugar, or my dear, or sweetie, I swear I’ll be back because face it, that’s just weird. I mean, if I actually know who you are, I’m fine with it, but otherwise, it’s just a little creepy.

Good luck on all of your resolutions and have happy New Year and a lovely life.

Red haired mom: You, madam, are an idiot. And worse, you are a fanatical, logic-averse, woefully and willfully ignorant idiot. You cannot sue someone with your “screenshots” from the “interwebs” because they say something you don’t like, or even have a little fun at your (trivial) expense on their own blog. Freedom of Speech…ever heard of it? Perhaps you’re not from America. But if you could sue someone for such things here, believe me, the KKK, the Black Panthers, and much of Congress, and nearly every political commentator would all be penniless and perhaps imprisoned. Besides, by commenting on another’s blog, and by having your own blog, you wave much of your writes to protecting yourself against character attacks on another person’s website. You yourself have basically admitted to continuing to incense and inflame this ridiculous debate in order to increase your own profits. Will this hold up in court? No.
Idiot.
And I never cease to be amazed at the Potter-freaks who want to serve two masters. You can’t wholeheartedly serve God, eschewing even the appearance of evil, and yet defend to the death your right to indulge yourself and even impressionable children in the occultic imaginings of Rowling.
Let’s look at the facts:
Harry Potter is a witch/wizard
Witchcraft, occultism, and magic are condemned in the very scriptures you would claim to hold dear…as the innerrant word of God. In fact, the Bible even says, “You shall not suffer a witch to live!”
Witchcraft, and any supernatural power contrived from any source other than God, are attributed wholely to the works of Satan in the Bible. There’s no room for White Magic, or giving occultism a pass, because the kids are learning a “good lesson.” It’s wrong. It’s satanic. Period.
Now, I can already hear your brain-dead saliva-laden huffs and puffs as you prepare to reply that it’s all make-believe and blah blah blah…and it teaches a good lesson.
It also insiduously teaches very bad lessons too. Why so vehemently defend something which looked at in the light of scripture is clearly unGodly? Some things that are cool, enjoyable, and sometimes even beneficial to wordly goals must be given up to follow after Jesus in holiness, and with an upright heart. I will admit that a part of me finds the HP series fascinating, and would love to read it. But I can’t/won’t because I don’t want to allow evil influences into my life. You can argue about whether it truly is evil…but it does at least have an APPEARANCE of evil…and that is what the Bible tells us to avoid.

Excuse me, but are you aware that the current pope approves of HP? Do you truly believe that the POPE is going to go to hell?

I can assure you as an Irish Catholic, HP fans are not serving “two masters”. We do not serve HP, we do not all go out and try our hand at making potions and and spells and things, because we have enough sense to see that it is simply there to entertain, is not real and is not to be taken seriously.

And Good vs Evil is not the only Catholic lesson it teaches – there is learning how to forgive, how to accept grief, how to understand others, how to resist temptation, how to realise that immortality is not a thing to search for in life, but rather in death, ectr, ectr.

Banning books such as these is actually a Nazi idea – they burned books that had un-Nazi ideas, and you seem to want to ban books with un-Catholic ideas.

And while, yes, there are apperances of evil, there are appearences of evil in almost every story – like fairytales. Where would the story be if there wasn’t a wicked step-mother?

It is ridiculous to suggest that every story with an evil character should never be read – the only books left would be the Dictonary and Bible.

We read HP for enjoyment, for lesuire, for fun. We do not pray to it, and I assure you, I am not walking away from god.

Evie,
You miss the point…as I said, it very may well teach some good lessons. But the insidious nature of Satan is to “masquerade as an angel of light.” Indeed, Eve in the Garden of Eden thought that the fruit was pleasant to the eyes, and desired to make one wise. Much like HP, without looking below the surface of what’s going on, it looks great…gets kids reading, and teaches some relativistic moral lessons. But it is doing so through the use of a hero character wielding unGodly witchcraft powers. And in the end, what the Pope says doesn’t matter…you are responsible for the influences you allow into your own life.
I can’t judge the Pope and whether or not he is going to hell. But if he endorses Harry Potter as good, then I think he is misguided at best.
And I don’t want to ban books. This is America, you can read, say, and believe in any stupid thing you want to. As a Christian, though, I have just as much right, even obligation, to combat what I believe is an deceitful trick of Satan to numb desensitize our children to the evil in occultic practices. The evil in the Wicked stepmother is just that…evil. The evil in occultism and witchcraft in Harry Potter is shown as good, because Harry and friends are witches. THAT is the issue I cannot get past when discerning whether or HP is good or bad.

Casey: Thank you for proving that no matter who you are, you can still call yourself a Christian while defaming and insulting others.

While this is playing out on someone else’s blog, although he has played a major part of it, I have yet to

…having your own blog, you wave much of your writes to protecting yourself against character attacks on another person’s website. You yourself have basically admitted to continuing to incense and inflame this ridiculous debate in order to increase your own profits.

I personally don’t open my blog to the public or to comments. It is there for my own personal enjoyment and will stay that way.

I still haven’t called names, nor have I insulted anyone, but in the first sentence you wrote, there was a insult, that quite honestly is rather funny. Then you went on a thesaurus rampage. Extremely funny.

You may be a Christian, and you may wish to read the HP series, but don’t because of the fear of being corrupted, but just to clarify; it’s a work of fiction. If you are that easily influenced, you really shouldn’t be on a computer reading and posting derogatory comments.

I have no wish to push the HP series on anyone that doesn’t wish to read it. I do however have the right to read what I want. And to allow my children to read it as well. Until they are banned, which I can’t see happening, it will remain that way.

If you would like to continue to insult and call names, go right ahead, but know this, Freedom of Speech only goes so far. Defamation of character isn’t a right given by that Ammendment.

Lincoln, I appreciate the chance to reply to her attack, and your well wishes. HP and I will be very happy together.

Lincoln, I appreciate the chance to reply to her attack, and your well wishes. HP and I will be very happy together.

Just to clarify, Casey is a man. Unless he happens to be a very ugly woman.

Alright, if you want to fight dirty and insult my friends, I’m going to fire back. A.) Casey, you are the idiot. Personally attacking someone is flat out wrong. Comparing a children’s book to both God and Satan, is retarded. It is a f***ing book, drop it. If people want to like it, let them like it. Don’t call us all freaks and say we are somehow satan worshipping. It’s not about religion and it’s not about satan. So get over yourself and stop cramming your religion down other people’s throats. We are living, breating, THINKING individuals and we are going to believe what we feel is right. Do you honestly think God would appreciate you personally attaking people and telling them they are supporting something satanic? I don’t think so.

B.) Lincoln Adams, you just screwed up-big time.

It’s so cute to see teenagers argue.

Here’s a question though: how often do you read the Bible compared to books like Harry Potter? You DO know what a Bible is, right?

Exactly how often do YOU read the bible Lincoln? Some of your favorite television shows are the X files, which deals with the belief of the supernatural and the belief that aliens exist, and Smallville, yet once again something with unhumanly powers. So who are you to judge us harry potter fans for liking something dealing with magic and saying that we don’t read the bible when two of your favorite shows deal with things that are exactly the same? You are a hypocritical jackass…that’s what you are. You’re talking about all of the crazed harry potter fans and crazed trekkies…dude, you’re a trekkie! It’s under your favorite movies. You’re so hypocritical…it makes me laugh. You are pathetic. Congrats. I officially feel sorry for you.

Well said, Emma! The majority of the world is behind you there.

Because Christianity is not the only religion that reads HP, you know, and not all Christians think it’s Satanic.

But it is doing so through the use of a hero character wielding unGodly witchcraft powers.

But this is where not reading the books before you criticize them comes back to bite you. The characters are born with the ability to perform spells; it is a God-given talent in this fantasy world. Witches and wizards in the story aren’t members of an occult. They are born as wizards, much like characters in certain cartoons or Disney movies are born with special powers (flight, super strength, etc.). The good characters – the ones children look up to – only use their ability for good. The bad characters are so obviously bad that no child would see them as role models.

As a Christian, though, I have just as much right, even obligation, to combat what I believe is an deceitful trick of Satan to numb desensitize our children to the evil in occultic practices.

You do have the right, but J.K. Rowling (the author of Harry Potter) is a Christian herself. She is not trying to turn children away from God, to make them worship Satan, or to convince them to practice the occult. She’s just writing a story.

I have to ask this: what about other stories with magic in them? The Fairy Godmother in Cinderella uses magic to transform the pumpkin and Cinderella’s dress. She’s a good character, just like Harry and his friends. No one has any problem with their children watching Cinderella.

I don’t understand why it’s any different with Harry Potter.

Some of your favorite television shows are the X files, which deals with the belief of the supernatural and the belief that aliens exist, and Smallville, yet once again something with unhumanly powers.

I also enjoy watching Supernatural.

The difference is I don’t revolve my life around these works of fiction. If you don’t either, then what are we arguing about? Methinks thou doth protest too much.

Methinks thou is a jackass without a life who gets his kicks from putting others down. You are a derrogatory, overly opinionated, mean spirited person. No one revolves their lives around these books. IT’s not like we all walk around in robes carrying sticks of wood acting like witches and wizards. It’s something we enjoy. We watch movies, just like you. We read books, just like you. We write stories, good ones, unlike you. We creatively express in a healthy way. Writing increases your vocabulary and reading skills.
So, in the end, none of us potter fans are overly obsessed or crazed. We like the books, we like the movies, we write a little bit. We don’t walk around with sticks yelling incantations. WE’re not wicca, we’re not satan worshippers, we are people who like the books. We just want people to stop calling us freaks because of something we like. We’re not trying to tell everyone they HAVE to read the books or watch the movies. We just want the freedom to like what we want without being called freaks or nutters. That’s all. IS that really so hard for you to do? Just to put the differences aside and say I dont like, you do. No big. Would it really be that hard for you to stop calling us freaks and just leave it be? That’s all we really want. I’m trying to be nice because arguing doesn’t help the situation any.

I’m sure there will be MAJOR backlash from this comment, but I’m sorry to say that all of the bashing of each other in this forums is exactly why there are fewer and fewer Christians these days. If a non-Christian were to stumble in here and see us “Christians” talking to each other with a potty mouth and calling each other names and bad mouthing each other over our opinons, they are just going to call all of us hypocrits. What will make them want to change their ways and turn towards a Christian lifestyle if we act no different than them? What would be the point?

I’m sorry if I am off the mark here but I was under the impression that most of the people responding here are Christians and those of you that are bashing each other really should be ashamed of yourselves. How can we hold ourselves to a higher standard if we act no better?

Casey – I too was leary of reading the HP series when it first came out, not because I was afraid it would influance my beleifs, but because of what people might say about me if they found out I was reading them. My nephew was 10 years old when the second book came out and was begging his mother for the books, she too refused to read them so like a typical child he read it behind her back. I found out and instead of beratting him I took his advice and read it before forming an opinon. I liked the books and saw nothing other than a fantasy story so I backed him up with my sister and AFTER she accepted my opinon she allowed me to continue to buy him the books.

I still continue to view the books as just a story and while I enjoyed reading the books, the fanfics on MNFF and writing my own stories it is just what someone elses stated, a hobby.

Now that we have beaten a dead horse with the back and forth bickering and name calling I implore you to reconsider the horrible way you are treating each other and just take the high road. Regardless of what anyone writes in this blog I seriously doubt Lincoln is going to change his opinon of the books.

Like I said, I’m sure I will get bashed for my comments but I don’t care, I won’t belittle myself and my faith by reacting
with curse words and name calling.

You hate me? But why…..besides of course the reasons you gave.*goes and cries because she’s a pouty teenager* I’m really a good person, honestly. I work at my church nursey. Well, I do have a problem with jumping off tall buildings, but that’s nothing of conquence. Well, what I am saying is that, even if you hate me because I love harry potter stuff, I think your pretty funny. Even if I don’t agree with your views.

Happy New Year, mate!

Well said, jmegray, I completely agree. I apologize to you, Lincoln, for insulting you and ‘potty-mouthing’ to you, and also if I offended you in anyway.

I should never have started this arguement. It is getting nasty. Lincoln, will you please close comments again? Nobody here, including me, is doing anything right by arguing. Everyone is getting nowhere, and it doesn’t really matter.

Just to clarify, Casey is a man. Unless he happens to be a very ugly woman.

ROTFL

I guess that that’s up to us to decide.

jmegray is right. We are all civilized human beings and shouldn’t resort to name calling and aruging with each other over a book and religion. We are all entitled to our own opinions. I would also like to apologize to you Lincoln for being a potty mouth and for calling you names and insulting you, if I did. If I offended you in any way, I am sorry. I get a little hyper when I debate and sometimes I go a little too far. So, for that, I am sorry. And I do have to say, even if I don’t agree with you on the hp books, I agree with you on your taste in movies and televison. Braveheart is one of my favorite movies and I regularly watch house and psych. So again, I am sorry for being a big meanie.

*Emma

Apologies accepted, I apologize as well for flying off the handle with all the name calling.

@jmegray: I would tend to agree, there are far more grievous sins than reading a certain book.

I think your pretty funny. Even if I don’t agree with your views.

@Alex: Danke.

I get a little hyper when I debate and sometimes I go a little too far. So, for that, I am sorry.

@Emma: LOL, it looks like we’re more alike in personality than either of us might care to admit. I’m glad we can at least agree on movie and TV tastes though, and Psych definitely ranks up there as one of my all time favorite TV shows.

First of all, I’d like to start off by saying that I think you have a point. I am an avid fan of Harry Potter, but I do not, however, camp out for days at bookstores waiting. The people that do may enjoy doing so, but I do think it’s a bit out of line. So, I can agree with you on that.

The only thing that upsetted me was when you centered it in on Christians. I myself am a Christian, and I did not find your comments tasteful. Many of my Christian friends read Harry Potter, and I’m sure that you know the Pope is fine with Harry as well. Harry Potter was the first book that I actually enjoyed and got engaged into, so for me, it was almost a miracle. For others, it may be just a book, and you don’t understand it completely enough to get our point of view. Maybe you didn’t mean what it sounded like you were saying in your blog, but it did sound a bit tactless. Thank you for your time.

-harry_victoria

Umm, Victoria, this is an apology time, we are trying to not get back on our previous topic.

>.>

Oh, I definately love psych! It’s so funny, just the fact that everyone thinks he is psychic when really he’s just a very observant person…funny stuff. I watch it all the time. And House…goodness do not even get me started on that show. He might be mean and rude to people but the man is brilliant. I would be his friend despite his usual disposition.

Yeah, we do sound quite a bit alike. My mother tells me that I am tactless when arguing…whopps. I might want to work on that…lol. But, seriously, some your blogs are hilarious. I do have to give you props for that.

**Em

Whoopsies! *giggles*

Anyways, carry on with apologies.

@bertie: That’s ok, Victoria presents a legitimate question that I should clarify. The reason I focus on Christians is because the use of witchcraft and magic as literary devices is something I would think Christians would shy away from, even if it is fiction. While some parallels can be drawn between Christianity and Rowling’s novels, it does present disturbing imagery at times and a moral code uniquely different from what the Bible teaches. So while it might be fodder for entertainment, I’m surprised that there aren’t more Christians turned off by the many literary elements in the Harry Potter series that are antithetical to Christian teaching.

@Emma: House definitely appeals to me, and if he were real we’d probably be related.

I like house too.
But if he were my doctor, I’d hide his cane, chew him out for being rude, then probably bake him cookies for saving my life.

Well, I’m going to follow the crowd here and apologise for being so opinionated. I have this sad complex where I believe everything I say is right. (You should see me on the topic of foxhunting…)

While I appreciate that some fans take it way to far, it does not mean to say that every single person that writes HPFF or went out a midnight does this, but I do understand that sometimes you want to slap these people round the head and yell get a life! The same also goes for the people that hired a private jet from England to Japan, just so that they could be the first to get a PS3. **shakes head sadly**

Nevertheless, I think bringing religion into it got everyone all riled up, as it is a unspoken rule amongst the MNFF community to try and keep religion as seperate from HP as possible, due to the wide diversity of people on the boards.

I think, as debates go, this was rather vicious, with neither side managing what they wanted to achieve, but hopefully still making a point to the other.

Good luck on your resolutions, especially that girl of your dreams – because I was pretty mean about that and have felt guilty about that low blow ever since.

~Evie

Good luck on your resolutions, especially that girl of your dreams – because I was pretty mean about that and have felt guilty about that low blow ever since.

Quite alright, FAR worse has been said, my personal favorite being one reader’s hope that the girl of my dreams would turn out to be a man.

I would also like to apologize for anything I said that offended anyone. I was truly trying to present my arguments in a nice manner, but I know that those things don’t always come across in writing. I think we should all just agree to disagree and leave it at that. So no hard feelings, I hope.

Hee, I obsess over House just as much as I do over Harry Potter. And I’m proud.

Happy New Year (even though it’s a bit late), and good luck!

Well, with all the warm fuzziness here…I must also apologize for my inappropriate name calling. While I do have very strong opinions on this subject, the best way to express them is probably through respectful conversation, and not through calling people idiots.
By the way, Red haired mom, I DO NOT use a thesaurus. I read books written for adults.
Zing!
Sorry…again. Sorry.

Alrighty then. I think it’s about time I blundered my way through an opinion.

First of all, I am a huge Harry Potter fan. Notice my name. I’m a member of a Harry Potter fanfiction site and I’m all about Harry Potter.

And the only Harry Potter thing I own is a small decorative pillow that says simply “HP” and a picture of a Snitch.

And I think it’s pretty low of anyone to say that all Harry Potter fans are a bunch of obsessed, mental, loonies. I love Harry Potter. I cried when some characters died, I’m loyal to the characters, I’m loyal to the books, I love it. I get upset when people try to spoil the plot for others. And I’ll tell you why.

But first, let’s say you’re reading, oh, what’s a well-known book? Say you’re reading the book Old Yeller by Fred Gipson. (Spoilers ahead, btw) You’re really into the book. A friend of yours has already read the book. “Don’t tell me what happens,” you say. You’d like to enjoy the suspense of the book. “Why not?” says your friend. “You mean I can’t tell you that the dog dies at the end?” Your friend smirks.

See, that isn’t so insane. If you get upset, the whole world isn’t going to say “What the heck is your problem?? It’s just a stupid book!” But for some reason, the Harry Potter series is like, the devil’s book for some reason. The whole spoiler thing is insane. If someone gets upset because they’ve been spoiled, everyone rolls their eyes and tells you that you’re a stupid loony for even caring.

That is ridiculous! It’s the same scenario! Why should people say it’s different than any other situation?

It’s also unfair of you to unjustly question the religion of all Harry Potter fans everywhere equally. “You’ve all read the books so you all must be demon-people.” I know that’s not what you said, I was exaggerating. Huh, kind of like you, right? So it’s okay.

Like I said, I’m a Harry Potter fan. I’ve never read the Bible all the way through. I’m under 15, why should I get so serious about my faith? Isn’t that what life’s about, trying to figure out what’s going to happen next? And I don’t see a reason why I should go get my Bible every night and read through it like I’ll be damned if I don’t. In my humble and ignorant opinion, those are the loonies. I don’t mean to offend anyone by that, I’m only 13.

What I myself am offended by is that people like you have no problem calling every Harry Potter fan a crazed psycho with mental issues, randomly questioning everyone’s faith and accusing us of having mental problems. Everyone has odd obsessions! Let’s all have mental issues! Whoo! Not so mental anymore, is it?

Back to religion. It’s not like when we all die God is going to say “You were a Harry Potter fan. I am disappointed in you. I disown you.” Isn’t that what people are afraid of? Being disowned by God? Well if popular opinion is correct, and if the Bible (what I’ve been told and what little I’ve read) is correct, that’s not going to happen. No one anywhere is going to get disowned by any God.

Do I believe in God? Yes, I think I do. Am I going to ditch all religion and Christian-like belief and go worship Harry Potter? Absolutely not!

Harry Potter is simply a thing people like. Some people love it. Some people find inspiration from J.K. Rowling and her intense imagination and writing style. Others find that the series helps them to realize, I dunno, things. I can’t help you there, I fit in to category 1.

But still, why do you so offhandedly hate Harry Potter and all Harry Potter fans? Give me a reason. has a Harry Potter fan ever snuck into your room, tied you down to the floor, pointed a stick at your face and told you to join a Harry Potter Clan or they’d AK you? (Avada Kedavra. I flaunt my obsession) Well then why “hate”? Why not accept people’s interests?

I sure don’t have a PROBLEM with you disliking Harry Potter. I just have a problem with the fact that you just can’t put up a good argument while you verbally slander people. With no valid or explained reason. And then you again verbally insult fans that comment here, asking why you hate Harry Potter, and again you don’t give a valid reason.

I don’t care if you pick up the books and read them or not. I couldn’t care less if you ripped them up and burned them. Clearly you have a dislike for Harry Potter but you’re just one of those people that hates and hates and abuses and insults and doesn’t give reason.

It’s like your insulting people for fun.

Which is about as non-religious as one can get.

I’m just saying. Go ahead and comment back while criticizing my opinion and calling me stupid and insane. If it’s meant to make me stop liking the series and make me change all my thoughts about well, everything, it’s not going to. I just felt like I should say something. The end.

AngelaProngs, you make good points, but we, as the MNFF community have decided to move on from this now, hence all the apology posts. I understand that it is an alluring subject, but I think we’ve squeezed as much blood out of this stone as possible, and I’d rather not get into a big arguement again… even if it was quite fun.

~Evie

*giggles*

Oh, we’re over the argument? We’re APOLOGISING now? *cries* But… but… I only just got here! In any case, I shall just quickly make my case heard.

*I hate it when people obssess over things too – you think HP fans are bad? My best friend has walls covered with Dr Who posters! Sheesh!
HOWEVER some people do get bored easily and if they have something productive to keep them occupied and stimulated, well, why deny them that?

*There really are better things to life than some book and film series. Be they friendship, religion, happiness, or just trying to be the best person you can be, stuff like tht. Actually living in the real world, rather than the Potterverse.
HOWEVER having a side interest like HP never hurt anyone, did it?

*Christianity is good. Religion is good. God is definitely good. Satan is bad. Satan is REALLY bad. And people should not forget these things, or believe anything different. When you lose faith, well, that’s when you lose everything. Don’t let anything take over your belief, because it’s the most important thing you’ve got.
HOWEVER this doesn’t mean that you ought to deny yourself simple pleasures.

Now, I have plenty more to say but I won’t because… Well… primarily because if I do I won’t have time to visit the MuggleNet forums… Joking! Nah, I just don’t want to get offensive because I love the art of debate but it definitely loses something when it gets all personal. As in, the whole “girl of your dreams” thing. I have nothing against you, I mean I’ve never even met you, I don’t even live in the same continent as you, so why should I direct bad will towards you? All the same, my opinion is that in your next blog don’t be quite so vehement. I respect your opinion, but I don’t respect you insulting other people in order to get that across. State your point, but do so in a way that doesn’t make you seem so… Well… hateful and spiteful? By what you’ve said in these comments you seem like a really agreeable, smart person and I think you’re doing yourself an injustice by acting otherwise. Sure, keep on stating your opinion! Just do it in a more peaceful way.

Best wishes for the New Year,
Phia

Oopsie.

Sorry, I didn’t realise that the whole argument was over, as in over over. My bad.

But… All the same, I have printed this page out. It shall be something for me to giggle over when I get bored.

You guys are all so funny.

@Phia: Feel free to come back and check out my other hilarious content.

alas i showed up too late for the argument. generally i think all of what i would have pointed out has been said, if not quite as pointedly as i would have liked. remember, even Jesus himself would throw some tables around if the situation called for it…..in any case, simply as literature, there is no greater fantasy book than Lord of the Rings. period, end of discussion. to use metaphor, harry potter is an off season reality show, it’s applebee’s, it’s top 40 radio; decent enough to hold the interests of millions while leaving the rest to search high and low for a choice with substance. and i don’t apologize for that statement!

I hate the Harry Potter books and movies. But I am also Christian(A Catholic). Not all Christians are like that. Plus i think the Catholic pope condemned the Harry Potter series, but I don’t care because I hate Harry Potter. Personally I love the Lord of the Rings movies and books. Just to throw this in too I also hate the Chronicles of Narina.

Oh my goodness! 0_o
You guys are sad. Look, bottom line:
Harry Potter Books=Fiction
Yeah-whenever there is something alot of people likes you ARE gonna get the sad little people who turn their bedrooms in a Love Shrine of something thats not real but you gotta deal with it. As for the whole Christian Concept-i dont see how its at all harmful. Its fiction. Aslong as you dont get people sitting at home thinking “I know-im going to do witchcraft” just because they read The Philosophers Stone then its ok. Im pretty sure a Harry Potter book; of all books, will induce Divination and Dark Arts. Yes, admittedly, you DO ge the mental cases where people believe they have “magical” abilities but that doesnt necessarily make them evil. There is NO such thing as magic so there is nothing to worry about. And to be honest everyone-do you REALLY want to sit there reading passages from the bilbe over and over? I wouldnt say im a particularly strict christian-i will consult the bible in times of need/prayer, not in things like spare time. I dont think the Bible should be treated like that. Nor a Potter book for that matter. I think everyone should just calm down abit. Harry Potter isnt real-nor is magic. GET OVER IT! If god is all loving and all forgiving and all knowing, he will know that people who believe that have a “power” have mental problems and will forgive them? Surely? Its not like reading a Potter Book is dealing with the Devil is it? Sheesh.

I don’t like Harry Potter because of my religious beliefs, I hate because the entire story and plot is so pathetically bad and should not be considered as a literary classic. On the other hand books like the Lord of the Rings are a one million times better than Harry Potter and Harry Potter and J.K. Rowling pale in comparison to Lord of the Rings and J.R.R. Tolkien.

Actually not all Christians adore him. Some of the more ‘conservative’ christian groups denounce the books use of themes involving witchcraft etc. Im definately not one of these groups I consider them to be Self-Rightoues but I still am NOT a fan of Harry Potter.

Im definately not one of these groups

Sorry that should be PEOPLE not GROUPS

Wow…CA…you let your child read something that glorifies witchcraft, occultism, and secularism? What WOULDN’T you let him read?
Fact is, Satan wants to infiltrate our children’s minds at a young age, before they’ve matured enough in spirituality and Biblical teaching to discern the spirit behind something. As parents, we have that responsibility. Why not substitue HP with the Chronicles of Narnia? It’s just as fairy-tale like, has young heroes, and teaches a Christian world-view.

Slightly goes against your theory, doesn’t it Lincoln?

I used to hate the Harry Potter Hype, too, then I read it and loved it- but who am I to preach? I’m not a bloody Jehova.

Sorry but: HOW DO YOU LIVE WITH YOURSELF??? You insulting little b*tch!! You guys need to stop wasting your time talking about how Harry Potter isn’t holy enough for you and you need to read the books and find out for yourself how Harry Potter focuses on the most important religious things I bet you don’t understand!! The things you say to us Harry Potter obsessors is SOOO mean and that is like the least Christion thing in the world. You say you hate Harry Potter Christians…exactly why do you hate them?? How can you hate faithful people to god just because there’s a stinking book series they like. Sorry, but I don’t think insulting people and hating Christians just because they have a life and actually read GOOD books sounds very god-worshipping to me. You are soooo mean and instead you could be doing some good in the world instead of insulting someone because they like Harry Potter. What a waste of time.

You know what’s also a waste of time? Writing dumbass comments on someone else’s blog.

Run along little girl. Don’t you have a doll to play with?

I think Christians can find virtues that are not far removed from Christianity in HP. For example the whole good against evil plot. I myself can find many occult ideas in the Bible as well. Things like arising from the grave (like reincarnation), or prophetic visions like following a star (astrology). People will obsess about one thing or another. Then again I’m not a christian. I’m Wiccan and we don’t have qualms about witchcraft so I guess I’ll just let christians decide what they can or can’t read. Just thought I’d give an outsiders view. Well then I’m outta here, I’ve got to study New critics, formalists, structuralists, and whatever other kinds of critcism there is. Ick..

y was religion brought into this? that will stir up some ppl. I dislike hp but it wasnt really nescassary 2 talk about religon or how much u didnt like it. What does religion have 2 do with harry potter?????? and i think twilight is so much better then harry potter. No offense hp fans

Meh, I respect your opinion and all, and I guess you’ll consider it okay since I’m only 15, but I’ve been into Harry Potter since I was in kindergarten. I’ve been to every Harry Potter release party and every midnight release of the movies, and I have an entire bonus room dedicated to it (I collect memorabilia ) as well as Le Fantome de L’Opera. I’ve got alot of other hobbies and I’m a really busy person, but being into Harry Potter is just fun. It’s fun to be into something that you can meet good friends through and have in-depth conversations with them about it, and it ends up opening your mind to other things alot, too. Or that’s how I look at it. Just gotta keep an open mind. :3

WOOT! a kindred soul who thinks the same about Harry Potter!
Honestly JK Rowling really does not deserve the success she’s enjoying now as a children’s book author. IMO,Roald Dahl was and still is my favourite children’s book author of all time. He would totally kick that bitch Rowling’s arse sky-high in book sales if more children were exposed to his books than Rowling’s sub-standard novels….

Oh, and actually most fundamentalist Christians dislike the Harry Potter series, or at least the Catholics. The Pope denounced it.

I want to point out that Tolkien was a Christian, but was into Catholic rather than the other Christian “types”

I want to point out that Tolkien was a Christian, but was into Catholic rather than the other Christian “types”

Oh, cool. I didn’t know that. :]

Really people its just pitting one work of fiction against another, looking for elements of the older in the latter. As far as im concerned obsessing over Harry Potter is no different to taking the word of the Bible as reality, only that Harry Potter is fictional by intention of the author, the Bible was not. Harry Potter is a great read the Bible is a classic text leave it at that.
And dont get me started on twilight, the movies made it no more interesting than a dolly mag

I don’t like Harry Potter because of my religious beliefs, I hate because the entire story and plot is so pathetically bad and should not be considered as a literary classic. On the other hand books like the Lord of the Rings are a one million times better than Harry Potter and Harry Potter and J.K. Rowling pale in comparison to Lord of the Rings and J.R.R. Tolkien.

Yet your religious beliefs dictate you take some ancient text as law?

Apologies if im instigative, it how i roll

eu Adoro harry potter……….Ele faz da minha infancia gosto dele..Acho que vcs naum nda o que fazerem para fica criticando do filme e do livro..
E vc s que gosta de tonico e tinoco vivem reclamando da vida como a vida foi injusta com vcs……….mais tem que coloca a culpa nos inocentes Né: gaga:

I hate Harry Potter so much!! I started to read the series, because I had nothing better to read, and I ended up reading the first three books. At that time I thought Twilight was overrated. After the first three, I got so bored that I started reading Twilight, thinking I would hate it. I then realized how much Harry Potter is overrated and how AWESOME Twilight is!!

What’s with all the bagging on the Christians? If you were to say bad stuff about Muslims or Jews– no, that would be wrong and prejudice! Seriously, who cares if Christians like Potter? If someone obsesses over something, it’s annoying, no matter what faith they are.