i think the idea of a mass Abduction/ Ascension/ or Rapture- came from observations on Civilizations like the Mayas... they literally Vanished one day- leaving behind everything... leading others to interpret that event differently... to each his own... IMO- they ascended into the next dimensions because they fully Tapped In to the energies that be.... you can de-materialize your body/mind/spirit into the next realm of existence when your ready--- and the 2012 area marks the time where the Entire planet ascends.... those who are negative will not- staying Left Behind leading to interpretations such as "hell" and "heaven".... the positives will ascend into Oneness and achieve the next level.. just my 2 cents on it alll...