There are many different takes on Religions. Some believe them to be means to an end (the easiest example that comes to mind is Machiavelli, of course!), some believe them to be the fruit of human nature; humans have always had a desire to worship, to have someone or something to cling onto whenever they find themselves lost or overwhelmed. In any case in this theory they are believed to be manmade. Among every religion to choose from, nowadays “Stoicism” seems to be the new trend. A religion in the cloak of philosophy.
Now what is stoicism?
Principles of Stoicism
Living with nature
This is one of the main principles. The ideology adopts a quasi-Aristotelian stance when distilling the school to its ethical philosophy—which is what the Stoics are primarily recognized for. Living in tune with Logos (λόγoς), the universal reason that was once thought to be nature, is necessary for a happy life. Being in harmony with the λόγος inherent in the organic flow of events is the source of virtue. Although it may appear that stoicism encourages a tendency towards passivity (almost submission), this fundamental notion of living in harmony with nature has been shaped over time, resulting in the belief that tranquilly and mental clarity are the highest values. Such was the way of life, say, if λόγoς decreed that your small city-state should be destroyed by a raiding band of barbarians. This passive attitude shouldn’t be limited to one’s involvement in politics. In his work Meditations, Marcus Aurelius reminds himself that the true basic pillar of Stoic philosophy is keeping calm in the face of adversity. This includes dealing with “the ignorant” and confronting death.
Wisdom
Justice
Courage
Moderation