The wonderful thing about many of Hmong Christians, especially those who switched from Shamanism to Christianity, is their ability to separate what is "culture" from what is "religion". Though not an easy feat, in choosing Christianity, many were able see and define themselves as once "Hmong," "Shamanist," and now "Christian." Sadly, and ironically, these same Christians, especially the older generation, separate "culture" from "religion" so much to the point of being legalistic and religious
A lot of people do not know how to separate religion from culture. Because the Hmong culture is a religious-culture, it's almost impossible for a Hmong Shamanist to divide belief from life unless he or she divides him or her "self." The ways of the Shaman has had such a great influence on the Hmong people and the Hmong community that "Belief" is according to the way of "Life" and "Life is according to the way of "Belief". Like other 3rd World Tribes, the Hmong Culture is a "Shaman-Culture."
Though unsaid, it is strongly assumed that the Hmong are trying to scavenge and and regain the little of what's left of the crumbling and dissipating "Hmong Culture". When it comes to "culture", the traditional ways of dating, marrying, occupation, and marital roles is somewhat shifting. And when it comes to "religion", Shamanism is practiced without clear or detailed understanding of how and why rituals are practiced--even knowing "what" exactly to do is being blurred through the generations
I think that everyone is opinionated to their level of understanding and thinking. This video is simply a message to try to understand the two worlds of Shamanism and Christianity, not trying to convert anyone.
And for those who seem opposed to what this message is trying to convey, please don't judge. One cannot state that Christianity is a cult, a fake religion,etc. if they have never been there and likewise. From any form of intention, this video is aimed towards comprehension not division.
Wow. This was really cool. This Video has insprired me to do this to my own city. I would love to know more about what my city knows about God. I am a christian also in Oshkosh, and just spreading the name is wonderful. Maybe i will make a response to this Video. Thank you .
I am so glad to hear all these comments. i would like to talk to those people who really what to know more. I personally would like to you invite you to come see us.
I aint hating on Christians at all. They've never done anything wrong to me. I just hate how most Christians think they're better than us Shamanists. And we aren't Shamans because our ancestors were, we're shamans because we grew up this way and are lead to believe in this religion.
i was here to c it this video on reive... day at aig emaunal abessy of god... i was there that day and ci t for myseft... knew that to believe... ya dont know bout this meant it... ya crazy... i thank the lord that im still here.... wasnt for him im be still doing same thing very day have no clue who to c or believe.....
i've read the comments; and it dearly upsets me. this video was simply to see the two walls of our hmong culture. it was to tear down the walls, to see the TWO major "religion" of the Hmong. Yeah; what does it mean to be a Christian. . . Yeah; what does it mean to be a Shamanist. . . You do not know the steps and experience of another person, do not judge them. Let's all just see in the end. PEACE, CH
This video was made to understand "WHY" you believe in what you "Practice." How bout you? What do you believe in? Are you compelled by the last statement of heaven and hell? Please share your opinion on what is the steps and experience of your belief that you mentioned.
I don't think what you are asking me has anything to do with the video. Who said I believed in a certain belief...etc. Do not contradict anything here.
i am part of the media crew at hic church and am the camera man. and i was just curious what believe in my last comment. its alright if you dont want to share. sorry if we had affended you in any way or had made any pre judgements, re that last comment mention about two directions of heaven and hell. which is what i believe. shamanism dont believe in a heaven or hell, they believe in reincarnation. isnt that right?
I agree with you. Why question someones belief if you do not seek to understand, and better knowledge yourself, but touch a sensitive subject like religion or beliefs. This is actually to build a wall between the hmoob community not better it. Why question my belief? Do I question you about your sexual orientation? How about political view point? The point is don't question if you're just going to build a higher wall. Shamanism or Christianity it's a belief that we follow through our lives. THKS
it's kinda sad to know that many hmong people out there are shamans only because their parents/ grandparents are. it seems like they shamans because they don't know what else to be... but no matter what you may believe in or no matter what you consider yourself, you are still God's child. even if you don't know what to be/ believe in, you are God's child.
that so true, it like when are you going to think and do for yourself? you know that they do, do things for their family but it like some of them say. they do it because their parents/grandparents did it. so how about, we do not no longer use leafs or branches to wipe our butt, but now we how ever use paper toilet to clean our butt.
"Ask and you shall reciece" John 16:24. You must pray.God cant always be there for you. its the choices you make.God is Wonderful if you are willing to accept him.He forgives all, and he will always have his arm spread out to new comers.About 4 years ago, i was Shaman.But now I'm a christian.its a great feeling to know that someone is there watching me all the time and is there to guide my heart and soul. My ancestors were Shamans.I dont hate Shamans, because we are all hmong (Hmong Hlub Hmong).
Everyone can say anything they want, But have you ever experience being a christian? If you haven't, What can you say? You haven't been in their (christian) shoe. I grew up in a shaman family & then i became a christian. It take times to Actually believe in something. You got to experience something before even believing in it, right? When i first became a christian, i did believe in it, but sometime i'll swear, but i mean it's hard to stop a habit, right? Experience it and you'll know.
Yea, people have always been telling me God is there to love everyone even though we may not believe in him. So where was he when we needed a hand? And Shamans, we work for what we want, we pay for the rituals we need and we honor ancestors in the best respectful manner. We shamans have been working our asses off so that this religion can be passed down respectfully so don't try to convert us. Im not gonna stop anyone from converting, but just because we're shaman, don't look at us so low.
This kind of stuff seriously has no place at a hmong new year. I saw the same kind of stuff at the Santa Ana New Year. There was even a pastor who gave the whole speech on why shamans are lower than christians on stage... I seriously would have smacked him upside the head once but I had my baby girls with me.
Only reason ive ever gone to church was to meet girls.
the last comment of the video cracked me up... either go up to heaven or down to hell? Some Christians dont even believe in hell... and i feel bad for those who was coming down the stairs when he said that...
this is why Hmong culture(Shamanism) is dieing... we put ourselves into the white man's hands and converted into their beliefs... let people believe what they wanna believe in...
No, Shamanism is not our culture!!! Our culture is what we value,traditions etc. Shaminism is a religion that many Hmong CHOOSE to follow and practice. IT does not mean it is our culture!!
mistake, you are right... the connection i was trying to make was that Shamanism is a major part of Hmong culture... We value Shamanism and it is our tradition... one thing you are wrong is saying that Shamanism is a religion... it is not, it's a practice therefore you can believe in anything else and still practice Shamanism, it depends solely on you.....
I have also asked other Christians why they believed and they told me their parents forced them to go to chruch or they don't know why they do. They give me all these vague nonsense answers!!
To my belief, you guys try to dictate and force others to believe. If we don't, then we go to hell, but if we become another crusader to our own people. In that case, I PASS!!!
And don't try to use Bible quotes you don't know how to explain!! To me they are just gibberish!
When you come, why do you always try to make us feel guilty and condemned?! Don't try to come to a beautiful celebration like this and tell me there is two ways: heaven and hell!
You guys are hypocrites! I have seen "Chrsitians" at clubs, drinking, doing even worse stuff and yet, you still have the audacity to condemn!
Try to fix your own kind before you try to "convert" "nonchristians."
I mean Christianity is not that perfect. If you go into history such as the crusade it was one of the bloodest time in history. AND if your people is so loving, why do your people kill so many people in the name of your God?
If you want us "nonchristian" people to listen, maybe you should try to get to know me and understand me first, instead of trying to come and tell me to believe in a God who you can't even explain to me!
And the dude in the end, are you saying that I am going to hell? Man you Christians have the guts to say that in the midst of our celebration. We are celebrating something that has been part of our culture as old as time. Do you even know your culture anymore? Stop trying to push a WHITE religion on me!!
"The Honest Truth is" there is more than just two ways in life! How are you supporting that claim?? Bascially you are judging, aren't Christians not supposed to judge?
I don't understand what the dude in the beard is saying. I have had so many Christian people tell me that already, but NONE of them has ever explained to me clearly what it means to be a Chrsitians or all those terms they used.
And another thing about the name of God, what does that mean, how many names does God have. I have heard God, Jesus and the Holy spirit so basically Chrsitianity is a poltheysitic religion. Why are you interchanging between God and Christ?
What does it mean to be loved unconditionally by a God that I cannot see? What does it mean to be forgiven? How does that work? What have I done to need forgiveness? And don't even tell me I'm sinful blah blah, I have heard that one before! According to the ten commandments, If you break them you supposedly sin, but I haven't done any of that. I haven't murder, I haven't covet, steal, idolized and disrespected my parents blah blah blah...
I am a Hmong non-christian and I am appalled at this video. I don't understand why we have all these Chrsitians trying to convert us into their cults. It makes me feel like if I'm not a Chrstian i'm not good enough.
I also learned how to write and read Hmong from Church. Thanks to that, this helped me push some of my career doors. Sad to say, I have a American Caucasion friend who can speak Hmong better than me.
my point is this: I hope that whatever i do, i do it knowingly to understand why im doing it. understand it. please let me know your understanding in Shamanism and why you do it or practice. I don't know anything about Shamanism. am i ignorant because of that?
@Pukiraii In your opinion, who is God to you? Throughout history, people have added formula to His church and His purpose. I'm not asking what you have learn or been taught or possibly even the damages people claim to be Christians have doe to you or what they say what God ought to be like, instead, Who is He to you? Strip away all the different world view perception of God in terms of religion. Who is God to you?
I AM Hmong. I AM a follower of Christ. And I will DO what I do, fitting to my understanding. The line is drawn between Traditions and Beliefs. Come visit me sometime and watch me play the qeej. I played it once for a Hmong play.
You contradict yourself. Your comments do not even answer the questions or clarify anything. Like i said, Chrsitians are hypocrites!!
The Qeej now is used in the animalistic ceremony, but in the past, it was used as a celebration instrument. It was only during persecution from the Chinese that the qeej has changed in how it is used!!
how am i contradicting myself. i dont know anything about the qeej. i know that you know more than me. can you tell me more about it. i really like to know more where the qeej came from. i played it once for a play. it is a difficult instrument to play. why do you call me a hypocrite? please let me know? i was gonna take a class to learn more about what the qeej is. it does not mean that im gonna practice it though. do you see my point?
The qeej is an instrument, used to guide spirits for a funeral ceremony. Some things are just not practical for others anymore. Christians believe they dont need to do that anymore. How has it label others as not being Hmong? Who decides someones Hmongness. Will it be right to say that an American should only be someone who practices Christianity? These questions dont really perturb to the sincerity gist to facilitate: what is my true understanding to the things that I do.
In reply to kchmoobhawj, I have to say that just because a child is a christian does not mean he/she only speaks English. I disagree with that. Hmong kids now a days all speak either English or Hmonglish. It has to do with the society and growing up in the United States. Of course, the second and third generation Hmong would speak English. This has nothing to do with being a Christian.
No, I have to disagree with that point made at the very end there. There is not only just two streets. If that's the case, where do everyone else who doesn't fall into those two categories go then? I believe whether religious or not, all people go to one place when they depart this world. There is no up or down, left or right, this way or that way. It's just one road and we follow it straight forward.
I came that they may have LIFE and HAVE IT ABUNDANTLY. I am the good sheperd. The good shepherd lays down his LIFE for the sheep. He who is a hired hand and not a shepherd, who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees, and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. he flees because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep.
The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leands them out, When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. A stranger they will not follow, but they will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers." Going onto John 10:9-13 I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy.
And I must, just must respond to kchmoobhawj, yes God made wine for us, but it says in Ephesians 5:18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. (debauchery - extreme indulgence in sensuality). John 14:6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." And also John 10:2-5 But he who enters by the door is the shepard of the sheep. To him the gatekeeper opens.
I read in the bible, Genesis 1:27, that MAN was made in the IMAGE of God, that where it states in Genesis 1:1 In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. So when I read this over and over again, continually I convince myself, and recommit myself to God for he created everything before there was anything, so how can I not be following my heritage or my tradtions/culture if I am following this God who created the heavens and the earth.
So a lot of the time I wonder when there are people saying that if you're being christian that you are disrespecting the culture or traditions, what do you say to the people like myself who grew up with the traditions of going to church, of giving praise firstly to God, of being the type of person who serves others before serving themselves? I would really like to have an answer to this question for a lot of the time I myself am still lost. That's why I more often than not turn to the Bible.
It tells of the story of Adam and Eve, of how MAN, not Hmong, not Americans, not Africans, not Asians, not any ethnic nor cultural background but MAN came to live on this earth. That is why I BELIEVE that MY heritage, MY culture, MY everything, comes from God. Also there are some comments about knowing your heritage and knowing your culture and traditions, I myself am still young, at least at heart, and even I do not know nor understand most of them.
As I read some of these comments it makes me happy. Happy to know that Yes, Jesus is alive and moving in all of us. Moving so realistically that even 2000 years after his death we still talk about him, about God. I do sometimes wonder however, where I come from. Where can I put a stake to claim on my heritage, and then I realize. I PUT MY STAKE OF CLAIM ON GOD. Why? because it says so in the Living Word, the Bible. It clearly tells us where we originated from.
Stated in the words of a famous criminologist, "when men first come into contact with crime, they abhor it. If they remain in contact with crime for a time, they become accustomed to it, and endure it. If they remain in contact with it long enough, they finally embrace it, and become influenced by it." This quote is from the book, Think and Grow Rich by Napolean Hill please continue to read as I defend my own personal point of why I choose to not involve myself with any of the previously stated.
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christians are all part of a huge cult. brain washed. same goes to all other beliefs. The brightest minds in this world are either atheist or believes in scientology.
i go to the first Hmong CM&A church in Kansas.. and theres many thing i want to be back the way it is... being hmong not something else... we cannot hide our identity of who we are.. so please be who we are and hopefully you understand the felling that i'm going through. i am strugguling. hope one day i can see christian being hmong again
The Truth is, many people out there don't have an understand on what they are believing but just that is their Parent's Beliefs. It's not about religion here, but to Share Jesus Christ with all, in having a complete understanding of Christ. Many of our Fellow Hmong people even Our Christian Hmong dont understand why they believe in what they believe, to some a generational Belief and some just conformity. But to understand the Hope in which sets us free and bringing us a Real purpose of life.
Understand that We where not there when the Foundations of our Hmong Culture was Laid, and if our Ancestors start off wrong, give you an example if they where Cannibles should we still sit here in our basement and pratice eating people. No I believe we run from that Generational Curse, and correct our ways and i mean correct it in a Individual Level. We need to understand both sides before all can speak about it. We have lots people in our Churches where they can Testify about both sides.
@kchmoobhawj : Though a lot of Hmong people try and yearn to regain and recapture what is "Hmong", the truth of the matter is that no one really knows just what exactly is "Hmong." Without a written history, or a written language (not the English version created by missionaries), the only things foundationally "ancient" are folk tales. To then assume that what you know NOW is and has always been what "Hmong" is presumptuous, premature, and ignorant. Almost anything's up for grabs.
@kmxhlivn well said. culture is influenced by surrounding cultures and will change over time. it's just not possible to maintain a pure culture because practices will get interchanged. e.g. the string tying tradition that many Hmong uses these days in wedding ceremonies, hu plig ceremonies and such, was adopted from the Laotians. This generation of Hmong kids speak simplified Hmong with English as a substitute. Our parents are like this also, they speak Hmong with some Laotian.
@kchmoobhawj : It's a fallacy--a wrong way of thinking--to do something or believe in something just because, "this is what my parents do." Why? Because if one is to base culture SUBSTANTIALLY on the past, which I don't always agree with, it would require generations of empirical evidence dating back at least 500 years. To claim that, "Hmong are Chinese", is wrong because "Hmong" is not found and not claimed by the Chinese, except for a few references about them being "Miao" or "Cats".
@kmxhlivn The Chinese named Hmongs "miao" after a type of weed, not after cats. This is how the name originated: "Miao" is a type of weed; incredibly hard to cultivate and get rid off, is like the Hmong; difficult to conform or change to become like the "rest" and unlikely to die off. Thus, Hmong are "miao" like the unrurly weed.
@kchmoobhawj : The only substantial and empirical Hmong cultural evidence that can be historically referenced and/or compared beyond Chinese history is the posts on the doors, especially the one outside the front door. While the Chinese have something similar to the Hmong drum, and ancestral alters as well, the Chinese to not practice the posting of Spirit Money on the front door. The only other culture that does something similar to that is the Hebrew culture, with the blood of lamb.
i mean you don't have to be shaman to do this,, just keep the wedding like it is and the newyear like it is.. the traditional way.. have drinking and on the table on both side of the family.. God did not say Drinking was a Sin,, God gave Wine to Us as a gift.. Jesus even done the same.. it's in the bible. please be hmong if you want to achieve what God want you to do..
I'm really disapointed of our Hmong christian of the way they Change the hmong way like this..
i mean i'm not hating on christian i'm really am a christian too... why can't we just be hmong instead of turn to some people were not... the Americans are christian but their culture, their tradition haven't change.. but our tradition had change way to far, its like were forgetting our people and forgetting who we are,, were not white, were not black , we are hmong and lets keep it that way.. we can believe in God but we really need to stick on what hmong really is.
the reason i speak of these is not to offend you but, to change how we believe in christian,, we are taking it way to far.. how can you pick church people over your whole family... how can you not keep a history of the hmong instrument like the Qeej.. most church say that they use it for shamanism, but one thing they don't understand is that instrument are instrument it can be use in anyway.. how can christian like Hmong people be so scare of this Instrument..
i'm a christian too ,but theres one thing i don't understand why do most hmong christian hate on shaman instead of showing something good... why do all christian have all these rules like not being able to keep a Qeej. and why when theres a christian hmong new year, they only sing and talk about being a christian. but nothing about the Hmong tradition or hmong history.. how come hmong christian kids only speak more english instead of hmong.. how can they do missionary out in asia.
Most people wonder about this conclusion, but few pursue it to where it leads, feeling comfortable with their own beliefs and traditions, fearing that a further search might lead to the abandonment of those beliefs and traditions. The fear is justifiable, but the abandonment of the search is not.
Enter by the narrow gate; for the gate is wide, and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and many are those who enter by it. For the gate is small, and the way is narrow that leads to life, and few are those who find it (Matt. 7:1314)
Any kind of advocacy for any religion at a public event should never be tolerated. This "heaven" and "hell" preaching is a 1850 thinking. Let's learn how to respect and appreciate the diversity of religion like the ethnic and racial diversity of our society. Religious bigotry is the last thing needed at a public event.
you're right. But I don't think he was preaching to a crowd on stage or strongly, directing it to anybody at the newyear event. There wasn't any advocacy or religious bigotry that i can pull out of this but rather a movement to try to understand others belief; christianity and shamanism. However i understand why some people may feel offended and disrespected base upon the ending commentary or the beginning of this documentary.
The wonderful thing about many of Hmong Christians, especially those who switched from Shamanism to Christianity, is their ability to separate what is "culture" from what is "religion". Though not an easy feat, in choosing Christianity, many were able see and define themselves as once "Hmong," "Shamanist," and now "Christian." Sadly, and ironically, these same Christians, especially the older generation, separate "culture" from "religion" so much to the point of being legalistic and religious
kmxhlivn 1 year ago
A lot of people do not know how to separate religion from culture. Because the Hmong culture is a religious-culture, it's almost impossible for a Hmong Shamanist to divide belief from life unless he or she divides him or her "self." The ways of the Shaman has had such a great influence on the Hmong people and the Hmong community that "Belief" is according to the way of "Life" and "Life is according to the way of "Belief". Like other 3rd World Tribes, the Hmong Culture is a "Shaman-Culture."
kmxhlivn 1 year ago
Though unsaid, it is strongly assumed that the Hmong are trying to scavenge and and regain the little of what's left of the crumbling and dissipating "Hmong Culture". When it comes to "culture", the traditional ways of dating, marrying, occupation, and marital roles is somewhat shifting. And when it comes to "religion", Shamanism is practiced without clear or detailed understanding of how and why rituals are practiced--even knowing "what" exactly to do is being blurred through the generations
kmxhlivn 1 year ago
I think that everyone is opinionated to their level of understanding and thinking. This video is simply a message to try to understand the two worlds of Shamanism and Christianity, not trying to convert anyone.
And for those who seem opposed to what this message is trying to convey, please don't judge. One cannot state that Christianity is a cult, a fake religion,etc. if they have never been there and likewise. From any form of intention, this video is aimed towards comprehension not division.
MsYang13 1 year ago
You believe what you want to, but do as your heart pleases you.
FABULOUSxME13 1 year ago
Comment removed
leurseng 2 years ago
Wow. This was really cool. This Video has insprired me to do this to my own city. I would love to know more about what my city knows about God. I am a christian also in Oshkosh, and just spreading the name is wonderful. Maybe i will make a response to this Video. Thank you .
VangKhou 2 years ago
this video is very good!
i really like it!
but you guys should have interview like from the older generations to the younger ones and see the changes in their point of views! ^^
with both religions tho.
hahaha but kool vid! XD
miiCHAAN 2 years ago
I am so glad to hear all these comments. i would like to talk to those people who really what to know more. I personally would like to you invite you to come see us.
esan012 2 years ago
I aint hating on Christians at all. They've never done anything wrong to me. I just hate how most Christians think they're better than us Shamanists. And we aren't Shamans because our ancestors were, we're shamans because we grew up this way and are lead to believe in this religion.
ChristyThow 2 years ago
nice, too bad i missed friday. T-T
Jesus Saves.
CyberQ3000 2 years ago
i was here to c it this video on reive... day at aig emaunal abessy of god... i was there that day and ci t for myseft... knew that to believe... ya dont know bout this meant it... ya crazy... i thank the lord that im still here.... wasnt for him im be still doing same thing very day have no clue who to c or believe.....
gohan916 2 years ago
i've read the comments; and it dearly upsets me. this video was simply to see the two walls of our hmong culture. it was to tear down the walls, to see the TWO major "religion" of the Hmong. Yeah; what does it mean to be a Christian. . . Yeah; what does it mean to be a Shamanist. . . You do not know the steps and experience of another person, do not judge them. Let's all just see in the end. PEACE, CH
cristyher 2 years ago
This video was made to understand "WHY" you believe in what you "Practice." How bout you? What do you believe in? Are you compelled by the last statement of heaven and hell? Please share your opinion on what is the steps and experience of your belief that you mentioned.
kennyasalee 2 years ago
I don't think what you are asking me has anything to do with the video. Who said I believed in a certain belief...etc. Do not contradict anything here.
cristyher 2 years ago
i am part of the media crew at hic church and am the camera man. and i was just curious what believe in my last comment. its alright if you dont want to share. sorry if we had affended you in any way or had made any pre judgements, re that last comment mention about two directions of heaven and hell. which is what i believe. shamanism dont believe in a heaven or hell, they believe in reincarnation. isnt that right?
kennyasalee 2 years ago
I agree with you. Why question someones belief if you do not seek to understand, and better knowledge yourself, but touch a sensitive subject like religion or beliefs. This is actually to build a wall between the hmoob community not better it. Why question my belief? Do I question you about your sexual orientation? How about political view point? The point is don't question if you're just going to build a higher wall. Shamanism or Christianity it's a belief that we follow through our lives. THKS
leurseng 2 years ago
it's kinda sad to know that many hmong people out there are shamans only because their parents/ grandparents are. it seems like they shamans because they don't know what else to be... but no matter what you may believe in or no matter what you consider yourself, you are still God's child. even if you don't know what to be/ believe in, you are God's child.
so turn from sin and accept him.
kandialeks 2 years ago
that so true, it like when are you going to think and do for yourself? you know that they do, do things for their family but it like some of them say. they do it because their parents/grandparents did it. so how about, we do not no longer use leafs or branches to wipe our butt, but now we how ever use paper toilet to clean our butt.
esan012 2 years ago
how's shamenism bad?
if you can prove it is, how can you say anything about it?
how's it so different?
you can belive in god, and still be shamen
but shamenism is pretty much a way of spirits instead of altars and stuff
can you critisize shamens and not allow them to say anything back.
it's just a different way of precieving it
imalover011496 2 years ago
He wasn't there when most of us needed help.
ChristyThow 2 years ago
"Ask and you shall reciece" John 16:24. You must pray.God cant always be there for you. its the choices you make.God is Wonderful if you are willing to accept him.He forgives all, and he will always have his arm spread out to new comers.About 4 years ago, i was Shaman.But now I'm a christian.its a great feeling to know that someone is there watching me all the time and is there to guide my heart and soul. My ancestors were Shamans.I dont hate Shamans, because we are all hmong (Hmong Hlub Hmong).
VangKhou 2 years ago
I don't care what you say. Shamanism is a RELIGION. It's not a culture, it's not a tradition.
linian21 2 years ago 4
So how many of you shaman hmong believers celebrate christmas and on birthdays do you shaman believers bring gift to the brithday person?
esan012 2 years ago
Yep
Story213 2 years ago
Why yes we do :)
Story213 2 years ago
thats cause we in america. lol.
ChristyThow 2 years ago
I actually Attend to this church, HIC. && it's a very good church!
JGSluvKY 2 years ago
Everyone can say anything they want, But have you ever experience being a christian? If you haven't, What can you say? You haven't been in their (christian) shoe. I grew up in a shaman family & then i became a christian. It take times to Actually believe in something. You got to experience something before even believing in it, right? When i first became a christian, i did believe in it, but sometime i'll swear, but i mean it's hard to stop a habit, right? Experience it and you'll know.
JGSluvKY 2 years ago
Yea, people have always been telling me God is there to love everyone even though we may not believe in him. So where was he when we needed a hand? And Shamans, we work for what we want, we pay for the rituals we need and we honor ancestors in the best respectful manner. We shamans have been working our asses off so that this religion can be passed down respectfully so don't try to convert us. Im not gonna stop anyone from converting, but just because we're shaman, don't look at us so low.
ChristyThow 2 years ago
This kind of stuff seriously has no place at a hmong new year. I saw the same kind of stuff at the Santa Ana New Year. There was even a pastor who gave the whole speech on why shamans are lower than christians on stage... I seriously would have smacked him upside the head once but I had my baby girls with me.
Only reason ive ever gone to church was to meet girls.
slickcsskills 2 years ago
the last comment of the video cracked me up... either go up to heaven or down to hell? Some Christians dont even believe in hell... and i feel bad for those who was coming down the stairs when he said that...
Lonely401 2 years ago 8
@Lonely401 hell yeah! I agree!!!
FABULOUSxME13 1 year ago
this is why Hmong culture(Shamanism) is dieing... we put ourselves into the white man's hands and converted into their beliefs... let people believe what they wanna believe in...
Lonely401 2 years ago
No, Shamanism is not our culture!!! Our culture is what we value,traditions etc. Shaminism is a religion that many Hmong CHOOSE to follow and practice. IT does not mean it is our culture!!
Rainilite 2 years ago
mistake, you are right... the connection i was trying to make was that Shamanism is a major part of Hmong culture... We value Shamanism and it is our tradition... one thing you are wrong is saying that Shamanism is a religion... it is not, it's a practice therefore you can believe in anything else and still practice Shamanism, it depends solely on you.....
Lonely401 2 years ago
I have also asked other Christians why they believed and they told me their parents forced them to go to chruch or they don't know why they do. They give me all these vague nonsense answers!!
To my belief, you guys try to dictate and force others to believe. If we don't, then we go to hell, but if we become another crusader to our own people. In that case, I PASS!!!
And don't try to use Bible quotes you don't know how to explain!! To me they are just gibberish!
Pukiraii 2 years ago
When you come, why do you always try to make us feel guilty and condemned?! Don't try to come to a beautiful celebration like this and tell me there is two ways: heaven and hell!
You guys are hypocrites! I have seen "Chrsitians" at clubs, drinking, doing even worse stuff and yet, you still have the audacity to condemn!
Try to fix your own kind before you try to "convert" "nonchristians."
Pukiraii 2 years ago
I mean Christianity is not that perfect. If you go into history such as the crusade it was one of the bloodest time in history. AND if your people is so loving, why do your people kill so many people in the name of your God?
If you want us "nonchristian" people to listen, maybe you should try to get to know me and understand me first, instead of trying to come and tell me to believe in a God who you can't even explain to me!
Pukiraii 2 years ago
And the dude in the end, are you saying that I am going to hell? Man you Christians have the guts to say that in the midst of our celebration. We are celebrating something that has been part of our culture as old as time. Do you even know your culture anymore? Stop trying to push a WHITE religion on me!!
"The Honest Truth is" there is more than just two ways in life! How are you supporting that claim?? Bascially you are judging, aren't Christians not supposed to judge?
Pukiraii 2 years ago
I don't understand what the dude in the beard is saying. I have had so many Christian people tell me that already, but NONE of them has ever explained to me clearly what it means to be a Chrsitians or all those terms they used.
And another thing about the name of God, what does that mean, how many names does God have. I have heard God, Jesus and the Holy spirit so basically Chrsitianity is a poltheysitic religion. Why are you interchanging between God and Christ?
Pukiraii 2 years ago
What does it mean to be loved unconditionally by a God that I cannot see? What does it mean to be forgiven? How does that work? What have I done to need forgiveness? And don't even tell me I'm sinful blah blah, I have heard that one before! According to the ten commandments, If you break them you supposedly sin, but I haven't done any of that. I haven't murder, I haven't covet, steal, idolized and disrespected my parents blah blah blah...
Pukiraii 2 years ago
This has been flagged as spam show
please let me know if you want those questions answer.
kennyasalee 2 years ago
I am a Hmong non-christian and I am appalled at this video. I don't understand why we have all these Chrsitians trying to convert us into their cults. It makes me feel like if I'm not a Chrstian i'm not good enough.
Pukiraii 2 years ago
hi guys!!!
gaoyipunks 2 years ago
i love this commentary. very interesting. Remember, this is not a "religion", it's a "relationship" ;-)
jdmprototype2 2 years ago
I also learned how to write and read Hmong from Church. Thanks to that, this helped me push some of my career doors. Sad to say, I have a American Caucasion friend who can speak Hmong better than me.
kennyasalee 2 years ago
what is your point here? Another pt. to prove that you don't know your culture and language!
Pukiraii 2 years ago
my point is this: I hope that whatever i do, i do it knowingly to understand why im doing it. understand it. please let me know your understanding in Shamanism and why you do it or practice. I don't know anything about Shamanism. am i ignorant because of that?
kennyasalee 2 years ago
Kennyasalee, what is your pt. in ur comment about learning to write and read hmong from church?
That just proves how ignorant you are of your culture and langauge!!!
Pukiraii 2 years ago
@Pukiraii In your opinion, who is God to you? Throughout history, people have added formula to His church and His purpose. I'm not asking what you have learn or been taught or possibly even the damages people claim to be Christians have doe to you or what they say what God ought to be like, instead, Who is He to you? Strip away all the different world view perception of God in terms of religion. Who is God to you?
hangleenwc 2 years ago
im sorry if i am ignorant. sorry for telling the truth about where i learn how to write and read hmong. god bless.
kennyasalee 2 years ago
I AM Hmong. I AM a follower of Christ. And I will DO what I do, fitting to my understanding. The line is drawn between Traditions and Beliefs. Come visit me sometime and watch me play the qeej. I played it once for a Hmong play.
kennyasalee 2 years ago
You contradict yourself. Your comments do not even answer the questions or clarify anything. Like i said, Chrsitians are hypocrites!!
The Qeej now is used in the animalistic ceremony, but in the past, it was used as a celebration instrument. It was only during persecution from the Chinese that the qeej has changed in how it is used!!
Pukiraii 2 years ago
how am i contradicting myself. i dont know anything about the qeej. i know that you know more than me. can you tell me more about it. i really like to know more where the qeej came from. i played it once for a play. it is a difficult instrument to play. why do you call me a hypocrite? please let me know? i was gonna take a class to learn more about what the qeej is. it does not mean that im gonna practice it though. do you see my point?
kennyasalee 2 years ago
The qeej is an instrument, used to guide spirits for a funeral ceremony. Some things are just not practical for others anymore. Christians believe they dont need to do that anymore. How has it label others as not being Hmong? Who decides someones Hmongness. Will it be right to say that an American should only be someone who practices Christianity? These questions dont really perturb to the sincerity gist to facilitate: what is my true understanding to the things that I do.
kennyasalee 2 years ago
In reply to kchmoobhawj, I have to say that just because a child is a christian does not mean he/she only speaks English. I disagree with that. Hmong kids now a days all speak either English or Hmonglish. It has to do with the society and growing up in the United States. Of course, the second and third generation Hmong would speak English. This has nothing to do with being a Christian.
onkyo1981 2 years ago
No, I have to disagree with that point made at the very end there. There is not only just two streets. If that's the case, where do everyone else who doesn't fall into those two categories go then? I believe whether religious or not, all people go to one place when they depart this world. There is no up or down, left or right, this way or that way. It's just one road and we follow it straight forward.
soniavang 2 years ago
I came that they may have LIFE and HAVE IT ABUNDANTLY. I am the good sheperd. The good shepherd lays down his LIFE for the sheep. He who is a hired hand and not a shepherd, who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees, and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. he flees because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep.
slumbers08 2 years ago
The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leands them out, When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. A stranger they will not follow, but they will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers." Going onto John 10:9-13 I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy.
slumbers08 2 years ago
And I must, just must respond to kchmoobhawj, yes God made wine for us, but it says in Ephesians 5:18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. (debauchery - extreme indulgence in sensuality). John 14:6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." And also John 10:2-5 But he who enters by the door is the shepard of the sheep. To him the gatekeeper opens.
slumbers08 2 years ago
I read in the bible, Genesis 1:27, that MAN was made in the IMAGE of God, that where it states in Genesis 1:1 In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. So when I read this over and over again, continually I convince myself, and recommit myself to God for he created everything before there was anything, so how can I not be following my heritage or my tradtions/culture if I am following this God who created the heavens and the earth.
slumbers08 2 years ago
So a lot of the time I wonder when there are people saying that if you're being christian that you are disrespecting the culture or traditions, what do you say to the people like myself who grew up with the traditions of going to church, of giving praise firstly to God, of being the type of person who serves others before serving themselves? I would really like to have an answer to this question for a lot of the time I myself am still lost. That's why I more often than not turn to the Bible.
slumbers08 2 years ago
It tells of the story of Adam and Eve, of how MAN, not Hmong, not Americans, not Africans, not Asians, not any ethnic nor cultural background but MAN came to live on this earth. That is why I BELIEVE that MY heritage, MY culture, MY everything, comes from God. Also there are some comments about knowing your heritage and knowing your culture and traditions, I myself am still young, at least at heart, and even I do not know nor understand most of them.
slumbers08 2 years ago
As I read some of these comments it makes me happy. Happy to know that Yes, Jesus is alive and moving in all of us. Moving so realistically that even 2000 years after his death we still talk about him, about God. I do sometimes wonder however, where I come from. Where can I put a stake to claim on my heritage, and then I realize. I PUT MY STAKE OF CLAIM ON GOD. Why? because it says so in the Living Word, the Bible. It clearly tells us where we originated from.
slumbers08 2 years ago
Comment removed
lypeter23 2 years ago
Stated in the words of a famous criminologist, "when men first come into contact with crime, they abhor it. If they remain in contact with crime for a time, they become accustomed to it, and endure it. If they remain in contact with it long enough, they finally embrace it, and become influenced by it." This quote is from the book, Think and Grow Rich by Napolean Hill please continue to read as I defend my own personal point of why I choose to not involve myself with any of the previously stated.
slumbers08 2 years ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
christians are all part of a huge cult. brain washed. same goes to all other beliefs. The brightest minds in this world are either atheist or believes in scientology.
crazyshoppinggirl 2 years ago
Where do you think everything came from? What is the point in living? How do you decide how to live? What hope can you find?
Incognitoflamechild 2 years ago
i go to the first Hmong CM&A church in Kansas.. and theres many thing i want to be back the way it is... being hmong not something else... we cannot hide our identity of who we are.. so please be who we are and hopefully you understand the felling that i'm going through. i am strugguling. hope one day i can see christian being hmong again
kchmoobhawj 2 years ago
The Truth is, many people out there don't have an understand on what they are believing but just that is their Parent's Beliefs. It's not about religion here, but to Share Jesus Christ with all, in having a complete understanding of Christ. Many of our Fellow Hmong people even Our Christian Hmong dont understand why they believe in what they believe, to some a generational Belief and some just conformity. But to understand the Hope in which sets us free and bringing us a Real purpose of life.
HICmedia 2 years ago
Understand that We where not there when the Foundations of our Hmong Culture was Laid, and if our Ancestors start off wrong, give you an example if they where Cannibles should we still sit here in our basement and pratice eating people. No I believe we run from that Generational Curse, and correct our ways and i mean correct it in a Individual Level. We need to understand both sides before all can speak about it. We have lots people in our Churches where they can Testify about both sides.
HICmedia 2 years ago
@kchmoobhawj : Though a lot of Hmong people try and yearn to regain and recapture what is "Hmong", the truth of the matter is that no one really knows just what exactly is "Hmong." Without a written history, or a written language (not the English version created by missionaries), the only things foundationally "ancient" are folk tales. To then assume that what you know NOW is and has always been what "Hmong" is presumptuous, premature, and ignorant. Almost anything's up for grabs.
kmxhlivn 1 year ago
@kmxhlivn well said. culture is influenced by surrounding cultures and will change over time. it's just not possible to maintain a pure culture because practices will get interchanged. e.g. the string tying tradition that many Hmong uses these days in wedding ceremonies, hu plig ceremonies and such, was adopted from the Laotians. This generation of Hmong kids speak simplified Hmong with English as a substitute. Our parents are like this also, they speak Hmong with some Laotian.
npaujbais 6 months ago
@kchmoobhawj : It's a fallacy--a wrong way of thinking--to do something or believe in something just because, "this is what my parents do." Why? Because if one is to base culture SUBSTANTIALLY on the past, which I don't always agree with, it would require generations of empirical evidence dating back at least 500 years. To claim that, "Hmong are Chinese", is wrong because "Hmong" is not found and not claimed by the Chinese, except for a few references about them being "Miao" or "Cats".
kmxhlivn 1 year ago
@kmxhlivn The Chinese named Hmongs "miao" after a type of weed, not after cats. This is how the name originated: "Miao" is a type of weed; incredibly hard to cultivate and get rid off, is like the Hmong; difficult to conform or change to become like the "rest" and unlikely to die off. Thus, Hmong are "miao" like the unrurly weed.
npaujbais 6 months ago
@kchmoobhawj : The only substantial and empirical Hmong cultural evidence that can be historically referenced and/or compared beyond Chinese history is the posts on the doors, especially the one outside the front door. While the Chinese have something similar to the Hmong drum, and ancestral alters as well, the Chinese to not practice the posting of Spirit Money on the front door. The only other culture that does something similar to that is the Hebrew culture, with the blood of lamb.
kmxhlivn 1 year ago
i mean you don't have to be shaman to do this,, just keep the wedding like it is and the newyear like it is.. the traditional way.. have drinking and on the table on both side of the family.. God did not say Drinking was a Sin,, God gave Wine to Us as a gift.. Jesus even done the same.. it's in the bible. please be hmong if you want to achieve what God want you to do..
I'm really disapointed of our Hmong christian of the way they Change the hmong way like this..
kchmoobhawj 2 years ago
i mean i'm not hating on christian i'm really am a christian too... why can't we just be hmong instead of turn to some people were not... the Americans are christian but their culture, their tradition haven't change.. but our tradition had change way to far, its like were forgetting our people and forgetting who we are,, were not white, were not black , we are hmong and lets keep it that way.. we can believe in God but we really need to stick on what hmong really is.
kchmoobhawj 2 years ago
the reason i speak of these is not to offend you but, to change how we believe in christian,, we are taking it way to far.. how can you pick church people over your whole family... how can you not keep a history of the hmong instrument like the Qeej.. most church say that they use it for shamanism, but one thing they don't understand is that instrument are instrument it can be use in anyway.. how can christian like Hmong people be so scare of this Instrument..
kchmoobhawj 2 years ago
i'm a christian too ,but theres one thing i don't understand why do most hmong christian hate on shaman instead of showing something good... why do all christian have all these rules like not being able to keep a Qeej. and why when theres a christian hmong new year, they only sing and talk about being a christian. but nothing about the Hmong tradition or hmong history.. how come hmong christian kids only speak more english instead of hmong.. how can they do missionary out in asia.
kchmoobhawj 2 years ago
beautifully done!!!!!!
hmongoutdoors 2 years ago
Most people wonder about this conclusion, but few pursue it to where it leads, feeling comfortable with their own beliefs and traditions, fearing that a further search might lead to the abandonment of those beliefs and traditions. The fear is justifiable, but the abandonment of the search is not.
kristyxiong 2 years ago
Enter by the narrow gate; for the gate is wide, and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and many are those who enter by it. For the gate is small, and the way is narrow that leads to life, and few are those who find it (Matt. 7:1314)
monkiez2 2 years ago
Any kind of advocacy for any religion at a public event should never be tolerated. This "heaven" and "hell" preaching is a 1850 thinking. Let's learn how to respect and appreciate the diversity of religion like the ethnic and racial diversity of our society. Religious bigotry is the last thing needed at a public event.
hmongu21 2 years ago
you're right. But I don't think he was preaching to a crowd on stage or strongly, directing it to anybody at the newyear event. There wasn't any advocacy or religious bigotry that i can pull out of this but rather a movement to try to understand others belief; christianity and shamanism. However i understand why some people may feel offended and disrespected base upon the ending commentary or the beginning of this documentary.
kennyasalee 2 years ago
true that
Lonely401 2 years ago
Are you advertising religion?
laujave 2 years ago
What an amazing ministry! May the Lord continue to bless you as you further the Kingdom of Heaven!
ibobpeb456 2 years ago