quote:
Originally posted by Krsqk:
The "long-haired hippie" stereotype is derived from religious art of a period much later than Christ's life, especially medieval/Renaissance art. Long(er) hair, if anything, was just as culturally normal for men of the day as wearing high heels and hose was normal for the court of Louis XIV. Does that mean, then, that Louis XIV was either a) a woman, or b) a transvestite? He was neither; he was manly in his culture. Hippies were culturally rebellious because they participated in a style culturally associated with women. Don't try to place first-century culture in a modern setting--there is no comparison.
RE: Increased religious/political involvement--Granted, much of "Christianity" has become more involved in social issues than in the "roots" they've left. But then, would you say that a Christian is someone who claims to follow Christ, or someone who actually does? Mainstream Christianity has less in common with Bible teaching than it does with modern culture; but does that condemn the "real thing"? Does the existance of counterfeit bills prove the inefficacy of genuine currency? Just food for thought.
Oh, and Baron, congratulations on your promotion. Not as far to go as you thought, was it? 
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Actually, I was intentionally referring to the very large cultural gap between the originator and the self-described 'followers' of the religion today called "Christianity". Yes, it has far more to do with Medieval, Renaissance, and Modern European culture than anything Mediterranean or (especially) specifically Biblical/Jewish. Even in that context, though, Christ was a bit non-conformist. So the 'hippie' designation is not really incorrect. Call it double-irony.
And, yeah, what a surprise to discover the rank of General and reach it in the same day...
[This message has been edited by Baron Munchausen (edited 24 July 2001).]