However, even though the Pokémon games are not a form of formal divination, one cannot therefore conclude that the games and associated Pokémon materials are without problems. Rather, fantasy used in the proper context can be a tool to gain a deeper understanding of religion. Lewis in his science fiction series, that fantasy and religion are not two wildly disparate ideals. Tolkien, a devout Catholic, wrote The Lord of the Rings, a trilogy devoted to viewing the world of fantasy and “magic” through a Christian lens. In contrast to actual divination, though, Pokémon operates wholly in the realm of fantasy and does not attempt to cross the line into reality.įantasy is not necessarily bad. If Pokémon games contributed to the summoning of demons or spirits or explicitly encouraged involvement in the occult, one would have to condemn them as quickly as the Church does Ouija boards, tarot cards and other forms of divination (see CCC 2115-17). The Catholic Church condemns all involvement with magic and necromancy. Psyduck-while lulling its enemies with its vacant look, this wily Pokémon uses psychokinetic powers against its enemies. Haunter-because of its ability to slip through block walls, it is said to be from another dimension. Jynx-uses meditation to launch powerful psychic energy attacks. ![]() Kadabra-it emits special alpha waves from its body that induce headaches in others. For example, here are a few of the Pokémon characters’ names and descriptions:ĭrowzee-puts enemies to sleep and “eats their dreams.”Ībra-using its ability to read minds, it will identify impending danger and transport to safety (Abra evolves into Kadabra). In addition, there are other New Age themes in the Pokémon cards and games. Pantheism is also a fundamental tenet of the New Age movement. Thus, they worship this force and those creatures and “deities” that excel in mastering this “force.” This pantheistic outlook is present in the Pokémon characters and games, as the goal is to have the characters acquire power and thereby evolve into higher beings. Rather, they believe that “God” is a pervasive power, similar to “the Force” of Star Wars movie fame. Many of these religions are pantheistic, meaning they do not acknowledge the one, true, omnipotent God who is Creator of all and Lord over all. ![]() According to Hinduism, there are seven “energy centers” or “ chakras.” The forces of nature, such as earth, fire, and water are also fundamentals of many Eastern religions. While many of these “energy centers” may seem harmless in themselves, there is a striking resemblance to the Hindu religion. Star-representing double energy to any Pokémon. Lightning-a lightning bolt on a yellow card.įighting- represented by a clenched fist on a brown card. Psychic-as represented by a purple, all-seeing eye.Įarth-which is represented by a leaf on a green card. Depending on the kind of Pokémon it is, it can draw from seven sources of energy to help it attack in battle. ![]() When a Pokémon is about to evolve, it needs extra energy. Charmander evolves into “Charmelian,” a more menacing “chameleon-like” creature, and evolves again into the higher level of “Charizard,” a fire-breathing dragon. For example, “Charmander” is a cute little figure so named because he emanates fire (“Char”) and in some ways resembles a salamander. For example, there is the focus on “energy centers” and “energy sources” necessary for the evolution of a Pokémon character. However, there are more troubling religious and moral overtones to Pokémon. Simply the “fighting” between Pokémon players might raise concerns among some parents, although, to be fair, kids can also play other make-believe battles with toy guns without harmful moral effects. The aspiring trainers do this by waging battles with their Pokémon characters against other kids. ![]() Ash and his friends are trying to capture and possess as many of the 150 Pokémon characters as possible, which they store in their pockets in “Pokémon balls.” The Pokémon balls are then trained and “evolved” to another higher level.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Details
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |