Something More: Ghost Hunting, Spiritual Personas, Suffering from God and Djinns in Final Fantasy

Hola mis amigos! To all those who have been looking forward to Something More, I hope I meet your expectations. I am Samuru, one of the staff writers here at Beneath the Tangles who enjoys writing on video games and occasionally anime. I used to write a column on Geeks Under Grace called Treasure Chest that was inspired by this very column, so I’m happy to pick it up! Please contact me in whichever way you prefer (article comments are probably better) and leave me posts that you feel should be here. God bless, and enjoy.

In my first featured post for this wonderful column, I chose Eugene’s detailed post on ghost busting in Japan. Whether it’s from a Shinto or a Buddhist perspective, it’s interesting to read about how these religions try to eradicate demons and dark spirits. Anime has for many years tackled the topic of demons, ghosts, and exorcism in different ways. In this post, drawing from the recent Ao No Exorcist and much older series, you will discover some real life rituals that are done by the Japanese to release evil spirits. It’s interesting to see how much depth there is in anime when it comes to the spiritual world.

Be careful though, as these rituals are real and not just something fun to do. Messing with the supernatural when you are not familiar with it can bring problems in your life.

>> Ghost Busting in Japan part 1 and part 2

Continue on to find some great posts on anime and gaming…

Have you ever eaten tons of ice cream or binged an entire series in a week or less? What about trying to do that with your relationship with your Creator? Many believers’ faith consists of this, and it isn’t healthy. Sam explains his own struggles and what he’s doing to improve.  (Unsheathed)

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood contains great conversations that touch on the topic of suffering and God. Edward Elric has a conflict inside of himself that he discusses with the divine being in the anime, and it helps him understand himself better. (Otaku Collision)

Charles writes on OreGairu (My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU) and how friendships can burn us. He describes how he has become a better person because he’s been open about himself with others, despite being hurt in the process.  (Geekdom House)

Robert finishes up reviewing Tales of Zestria X the anime. He gives a Christian perspective of how Satan tempts us and can lead us to malevolence. Through Christ we have the victory and can overcome him.  (Christian Anime Review)

This one’s a great piece on Persona 4, which is a popular JRPG series in Japan and has a cult following in the United States. I personally haven’t played any of them except the fighting game Ultamix, but I do enjoy the characters. Logan connects relationships in the game with how God calls us to treat our fellow man.  (Reformed Gamers)

One of the popular summons in Final Fantasy is the Ifrit. Did you know that it is actually a djinn in mythical lore? You will find out all the background of this mighty beast right here!  (Lady Geek Girl)

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As part of the Something More series of posts, Beneath the Tangles links to writings about anime and manga that involve religion and spirituality.  If you’ve written such a piece or know of one, please contact us to be included.

Samuru
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