Is there any ancient book or text like the Bible which espouses again and again the virtues and concepts of love, faith, humility, charity, empathy, compassion and mercy? Not only in the New Testament but the OT as well?
Other ancient texts from what I've read just focus on gods winning wars, defeating dragons and demons and taking heroic men into the pantheon of the gods or taking beautiful women as their mates.
any ancient philosophy work
Why should books only promote love? Life isn't just about love. You can't survive by just loving everyone, there are people out there that hate you and want you dead.
You should love people who deserve your love, not just give it away unconditionally.
>>1433940
But what about religions? Are there ancient religious texts which hold those values in high regard, or even command it's followers to practice them?
The Upanishads
>>1433995
Hindu scriptures
O seeker, know the true nature of your soul,
and identify yourself with it completely.
O Lord, (may we attain) the everlasting consciousness
of Supreme Light and Joy.
May we resolve to dedicate our life
to the service of humankind,
and uplift them to Divinity.
(Yajur Veda)
>>1433920
Any Greek religious work. The hymns of Orpheus, the various prayers to the pagan gods, they all focus endlessly on love as the central virtue.
Also faith is only a virtue if you're a cult leader, believing whatever you're told with no evidence is the opposite of virtuous.
>>1433920
Are you kidding me?
Dhammapada and pretty much any Buddhist scripture. Any (ancient) philosopher ever. Confucius, Lao Tse, just off the top of my head...
>>1434063
The BAHBEL is pretty watered down compared to those I've cited. And the OT is just muh tribal storm God will take revenge upon all y'all. Y-you see.