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For example, lets suppose we all agree "evil" exists.
Based on a stereotypical old testament Christian god, you run into problems real fast. In fact, Epicurus understood this way before monotheism came about.
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Is God willing to prevent evil, but not able?
Then he is not omnipotent.
Is he able, but not willing?
Then he is malevolent.
Is he both able and willing?
Then whence cometh evil?
Is he neither able nor willing?
Then why call him God?
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As far as I know, nobody has come up with a satisfactory answer to Epicurus's dilemma.
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The solution to the Epicurean Dilemma is to attack the assumption on which it is founded: the existence of such a deity. Once you dismiss the imaginary entity the contradictions turn to vapor.
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So generations upon generations have earned degrees in theology, only to fritter away their lives in pointless mental gymnastics.
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The real point of theological study is to empower the priestly class with rhetorical tropes that distract the listener. They do what good magicians do; use misdirection and pageant to impress.
The chief difference between the carnival entertainer and the cleric is that the cleric believes in the cards.
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The more I study religions the more I am convinced that man never worshipped anything but himself.
Sir Richard Francis Burton
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