The hottest Religion Substack posts right now

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'Such were the works of Walsingham'

The Abbey of Misrule • 357 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion Pilgrimage History Worship Devotion
  1. Walsingham used to be a major pilgrimage site in England where many people traveled to show their devotion to the Virgin Mary. The last mile of the journey was traditionally done barefoot to honor the holy ground.
  2. The Slipper Chapel at Walsingham has a rich history. After being damaged, it was restored and even became a minor basilica, showing the ongoing importance of the site for Catholic pilgrims.
  3. While large pilgrimage sites attract many visitors, some people prefer the peace and quiet of smaller parish churches. It's nice to connect with faith in a serene environment, away from crowds.

'Do You Believe Jesus Died for Our Sins?’ Richard Dawkins Confronts Jordan Peterson

The Poetry of Reality with Richard Dawkins • 933 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Theology Philosophy Religion Existentialism Cultural Studies
  1. Richard Dawkins challenges Jordan Peterson about his beliefs on the Bible and whether Jesus died for our sins.
  2. Peterson compares the truths of Christianity to the complexities of quantum physics in a recent conversation.
  3. They discuss how Christianity has influenced human progress and what it means to believe in its truths.

Ross Douthat: Everyone Should Believe in God

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2179 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion Belief Secularism Spirituality Conversion
  1. Many people are feeling drawn back to religion after a period of being more secular. It's like there’s a little spark in the younger generations wanting to explore faith again.
  2. High-profile figures are converting to religion, suggesting a trend where even the educated elite are rethinking their beliefs. This shows that curiosity about spirituality is growing, even among the skeptics.
  3. However, there’s a worry about why people are turning to religion. It's important to think about the reasons behind this interest in faith to ensure it’s meaningful and genuine.

When I say I believe in God

Sasha's 'Newsletter' • 347 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Belief Religion Spirituality Personal Growth Self-discovery
  1. Believing in God can start suddenly and unexpectedly, sometimes triggered by self-discovery moments. It’s a personal journey that can evolve over time.
  2. Understanding oneself better, like through personality tests, can lead to deeper realizations about life and beliefs. Self-awareness is key to personal growth.
  3. Explaining spiritual beliefs can be challenging, as they are often complex and deeply personal. Everyone's experience with faith is unique.

The most powerful woman you can see

Men Yell at Me • 155 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art Feminism Literature Religion Identity
  1. Living in Iowa has brought a deep sense of meaning and fulfillment to teaching and community engagement. The connection with students and the supportive environment feels more impactful than in bigger cities like New York.
  2. A year of celibacy taught a lot about self-connection and feeling comfortable in one's own body. It shifted the focus from being seen by others to truly experiencing life and one's own desires.
  3. Everything in life is connected, from relationships to personal values. By recognizing these connections, there's a chance to bring passion and presence into all areas of life, including friendships and activism.
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Is It Better To Believe In Anything Than In Nothing?

Gideon's Substack • 28 implied HN points • 28 Feb 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion Belief Philosophy Ethics Culture
  1. Believing in something, even if it's not perfect, can be better than not believing at all. It gives people a sense of meaning in life.
  2. Skepticism is important; it's better to question and understand what you believe rather than blindly accept any belief, especially if it involves harmful practices.
  3. People often connect with beliefs not just through logic, but also through community and shared experiences, like enjoying meals together.

Luther and the Spark of the Reformation

Papyrus Rampant • 178 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
💾 History Religion Education Politics Europe
  1. Martin Luther posted his Ninety-Five Theses in 1517, which wasn't meant to start a movement but turned out to spark the Protestant Reformation.
  2. He challenged the sale of indulgences, emphasizing that faith in God, not money, is what saves people from sin.
  3. Luther's actions led to a push for education and Bible translation, helping more people understand their faith and read scripture in their own language.

The call of spiritual life

Silentium • 539 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Spirituality Meditation Silence Religion Philosophy
  1. Spiritual life often invites us to find moments of silence and stillness. Taking time for quiet can help us connect deeper with ourselves.
  2. Engaging in spiritual practices can foster a sense of peace and clarity. These practices can be anything from meditation to nature walks.
  3. Embracing silence can lead to personal growth and understanding. It's a chance to hear our thoughts and feelings without distractions.

How Intellectuals Found God

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 5958 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Theism Philosophy Intellectualism Conversion Religion
  1. Many intellectuals, who once questioned or rejected God, are now finding faith. It's interesting to see a change in perspective among respected thinkers.
  2. One example is Matthew Crawford, who felt lost in his early life but experienced a spiritual transformation through personal connections and discussions about faith.
  3. The journey to finding God can often feel like a personal story of searching and discovery, rather than a simple acceptance of religious beliefs.

Watching women cannibalize themselves for fun and profit

Men Yell at Me • 444 implied HN points • 28 May 25
🎭️ Culture Media Gender Society Religion Reality TV
  1. Reality shows like 'The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives' show the struggles women face in a patriarchal society. These women navigate personal relationships while dealing with societal pressures.
  2. Despite being successful, many women feel trapped by expectations at home and in their faith. They are the breadwinners, but still carry the bulk of household responsibilities.
  3. The show's drama reflects real issues many women face today, like work-life balance and societal judgment. Watching these stories can make it easier to question the larger systems affecting all women.

The Miracle of the Light

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3909 implied HN points • 26 Dec 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Judaism Religion Philosophy Tradition History
  1. In tough times, we look for hope and inspiration, often represented by light. The stories and symbols of Jewish history highlight the fight for life and dignity.
  2. A famous image from 1931 shows a menorah shining bright against a swastika, symbolizing the struggle between good and evil. It reminds us of what we stand for in the face of opposition.
  3. Some people mock traditional beliefs, like the miracle of Hanukkah, but these beliefs underline important values like human equality and the sanctity of life. Our spiritual heritage teaches us about more than just history.

The Gulf and the Silence

The Abbey of Misrule • 641 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion Philosophy Literature Self-reflection Cultural critique
  1. When the power goes out, life changes a lot. People talk more and do things differently without all the gadgets.
  2. Going without electricity made one family reflect on what they gained and lost with technology. It brought a calm, slower pace to their lives.
  3. Experiencing silence can reveal new rhythms in life, making people appreciate simple moments like reading books and sitting by the fire.

Why These Christmas Songs Could Only Be Written in America

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3348 implied HN points • 25 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Music Tradition Religion Celebration History
  1. Many famous Christmas songs, like 'Let It Snow!' and 'The Christmas Song', are not about religious themes but focus on winter, romance, and festive activities.
  2. These beloved songs were often written by Jewish Americans, blending their cultural influences into the music that celebrates Christmas in America.
  3. Even if someone doesn't celebrate Christmas, the music can still be enjoyed as a part of the holiday spirit and tradition.

I Took Religion Out of Christmas. I Regret It.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3218 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Religion Traditions Family Identity Values
  1. Taking religion out of Christmas can remove a sense of beauty and structure from the holiday. People often miss the special traditions and feelings that religion brings to the celebration.
  2. The nativity set symbolizes the importance of heritage and memories tied to Christmas. Items like this serve as reminders of cherished moments during childhood.
  3. Many people may not realize how much spiritual elements contribute to the overall joy and meaning of Christmas until they're absent from the celebration. Reflecting on these aspects can lead to feelings of regret.

On Mary and the Mob

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 5332 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Religion Media Identity Politics Art
  1. Mary, the mother of Jesus, was Jewish, and it's important to acknowledge her heritage. Denying this fact is seen as foolish or antisemitic.
  2. There is a current controversy over the casting of a Jewish actress to play Mary in a Netflix film. Some people are upset that an Israeli Jew was chosen for the role.
  3. The debate around the film reflects a broader conflict and misinformation about Israel and Palestine. Many narratives surrounding this issue are manipulated to serve certain political agendas.

The Divine Engineer of Ancient Sichuan

Chris Arnade Walks the World • 826 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture History Religion Tradition Philosophy Society
  1. Chengdu is a city that mixes modern life with traditions. Tourists can find panda-themed items everywhere and the city shows a blend of old and new.
  2. Li Bing is a significant figure in Chinese history for his engineering skills. He developed an ancient irrigation system that helped people manage floods and improve farming.
  3. Chinese heroes are often celebrated for serving the people rather than just fighting battles. Figures like Li Bing show how public service and engineering are valued in their culture.

Does the West Need a Religious Revival? Join Us for Our Next Live Debate.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1187 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion Debates Cultural Issues Society Mental health
  1. The West is facing issues like low marriage and birth rates, more depression and loneliness, and a general sense of unhappiness. Many believe this might be linked to a decline in traditional religion.
  2. FDR's four fundamental freedoms, including freedom of worship, are currently challenged by new societal problems like technology and economic inequality.
  3. A debate is happening about whether a return to religion could help with the current crisis of meaning, highlighting differing views on modern secularism versus traditional belief systems.

Conclave and the Antichrist

Kvetch • 84 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Theology Religion Philosophy Ethics Culture
  1. One possible twist in the story is seeing the humble Cardinal become the ruthless manipulator behind the scenes, raising questions about the hidden ambitions of those in power.
  2. The election of Cardinal Benitez can be viewed as a moment of peace, but it symbolizes a deeper danger, suggesting that even peace can be used to mask destructive intentions.
  3. The film highlights a divided Church, where leaders are more focused on personal ambitions rather than uniting against external threats, showcasing how a lack of common ground can lead to vulnerability.

The Real User Interface: Recovering Our Neighborhoods

After Babel • 1397 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Community Technology Education Religion Urban Youth
  1. Technology is pulling us apart, but we have the tools to bring our communities back together. Building strong, in-person connections helps kids thrive.
  2. Changes like urban planning for cars instead of people, and the decline of local institutions weaken our neighborhoods. We need to create spaces for people to gather and connect.
  3. Individualism and a focus on material success have shifted our dreams away from community ties. Investing time and effort into our neighborhoods can help restore those important social bonds.

Evangelicals for Trump? It's Not About Religion

Steady • 28774 implied HN points • 18 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Religion Society Polling Media
  1. Evangelicals support Trump not necessarily because of religion but for reasons like opposing abortion and LGBTQ+ rights.
  2. Despite Trump's personal controversies, many white evangelical Christians see him as a savior figure saving the country from perceived threats.
  3. There is a shift in evangelical priorities, with church attendance declining and political identity becoming more significant.

Links For December 2024

Astral Codex Ten • 13627 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Art Music Religion Philosophy Literature
  1. Steven Seagal has led a colorful life after Hollywood, converting to Buddhism, supporting Russia, and marrying multiple women. He's even been called the reincarnation of a famous saint.
  2. An outrageous fine of $20 trillion was imposed on Google by Russia for blocking certain YouTube channels. This amount is far more than the total worth of the world's economy!
  3. There's a belief that taller candidates tend to win U.S. elections. While some studies suggest a slight trend, it's not enough to say it's a reliable rule.

Pantheons, Panchronos

How the Hell • 129 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Religion History Mythology Literature Philosophy
  1. The Pantheon of the Past represents a nostalgic time when humans relied on the gods. It serves as a reminder of a simpler, carefree era.
  2. The Pantheon of the Present reflects a confusing time where humans struggle to define their identity and values without divine guidance.
  3. The Pantheon of the Future offers hope as it imagines a world alongside intelligent beings. It suggests that while the future may belong to new entities, the values we cherish could still live on.

The World Travels of a Blood-Soaked Mother Goddess

Looking Through the Past • 198 implied HN points • 13 Oct 24
💾 History Religion Mythology Archaeology Civilizations
  1. Cybele was a very ancient mother goddess from Asia Minor, worshipped with wild and intense rituals, including bloodletting and self-castration by her priests.
  2. The Greeks and later Romans adopted and adapted Cybele's worship, blending her with their own deities and transforming her image from a fierce nature goddess to a more subdued Roman matriarch.
  3. Cybele's story reflects the complex views of womanhood in ancient cultures, showcasing everything from wild sexuality to dignified motherhood.

An Atheist Grief Observed

Skeptic • 65 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Atheism Grief Religion Mental health Philosophy
  1. Loss can be incredibly overwhelming, and sometimes it can lead to devastating consequences like suicide. The experience of losing a home and a loved one at the same time can multiply the grief.
  2. Being an atheist can change how one processes grief. Without a belief in a higher power, there can be less internal conflict and blame, allowing for a more straightforward acceptance of loss.
  3. Compassion and support from friends and family can help during difficult times. Even in the face of tragedy, the kindness of others can soften the experience of loss.

Days of Awe

davidabell • 257 implied HN points • 05 Oct 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion Philosophy Science Mysticism
  1. Many people today struggle to feel awe due to busy lives and technology that makes us feel in control. It’s important to take moments to reflect and appreciate the greater universe around us.
  2. Science has revealed how vast and complex the universe is, but this should inspire awe rather than diminish it. We still have much to learn about the world, and the mysteries of nature can be humbling.
  3. There is a balance between questioning everything and accepting that some things are beyond our understanding. Accepting our limits and feeling awe can lead to a deeper appreciation of life.

Rise and Fall

The Abbey of Misrule • 502 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion Christianity Orthodoxy Cultural Trends Spiritual Practice
  1. Orthodox Christianity is gaining popularity, especially among young men, as it offers traditional teachings and a spiritual challenge that many find refreshing compared to modern churches.
  2. The decline of liberalism in the West is leading to a search for new ideologies, but there currently is no clear replacement, which creates uncertainty about the future.
  3. As Orthodox Christianity grows, it may attract both support and criticism, highlighting the importance of staying true to its teachings amidst a changing cultural landscape.

Inside Assad’s ‘Human Slaughterhouse.’ Plus. . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1298 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East Geopolitics Conflict Human Rights Religion
  1. The fall of Assad's regime in Syria marks a major change in the country's political landscape. Many people are unsettled about what this means for safety and future leadership.
  2. Syria's Christians are particularly worried about their safety and what might happen next now that Assad is gone. There are fears that the new leaders might not protect them.
  3. The harsh reality of Assad's regime is becoming clearer as people look back on the horrors of his rule. Many are seeking answers about missing loved ones and want to confront the legacy of violence in places like Sednaya prison.

The Messy Thicket of Change

Culture Study • 2436 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Religion Social justice Community Politics Race relations
  1. It's important to let everyday people create their own solutions for social change, instead of just following easy steps set by others. This helps them feel more connected and invested in the process.
  2. The journey towards racial justice is messy and often includes mistakes, but the willingness to work through those challenges together is crucial for real progress.
  3. Building a supportive community where everyone feels they belong encourages deeper conversations about tough topics like racism, making it easier for people to come together and act for change.

A Merry Little Chrismukkah

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 579 implied HN points • 26 Dec 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion Tradition Community Identity Belief
  1. For the first time in many years, Hanukkah and Christmas are overlapping, creating a unique celebration called 'Chrismukkah.' This blending shows a connection between Jewish and Christian communities this year.
  2. People from different backgrounds gathered to share their faith and values, highlighting the importance of family and community. The spirit of togetherness felt stronger during challenging times.
  3. The current environment has changed how many view their identities, especially for those who were once in the majority. There's a new awareness of what it feels like to be part of a minority group.

Ravings of a Christmas Hater

Handwaving Freakoutery • 611 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Holidays Traditions Consumerism Social Behavior Religion
  1. Gift-giving during Christmas can feel overwhelming and stressful for some people. It creates pressure to find the perfect gift while also considering social status and connections.
  2. The holiday has become heavily focused on consumerism and materialism, overshadowing its original spirit and purpose. People often feel rushed and distracted from enjoying the true meaning of the season.
  3. Some people prefer holidays like Thanksgiving that emphasize togetherness and gratitude without the burden of gift-giving. Simple celebrations can sometimes be more fulfilling than elaborate traditions.

Syria’s Christians: ‘We Have No Reason to Trust Al-Jolani’

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 667 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East Religion Conflict Human Rights International relations
  1. Syria's Christians feel uncertain about their future, especially after a new rebel group took control. They are worried about persecution due to the rebels' past actions.
  2. Many Christians in Syria have experienced violence and loss, which has left them fearful for their safety. They worry about what will happen next under the new leadership.
  3. Trust in the new rebel leader, Al-Jolani, is very low among the Christian community. They see him as a threat rather than a protector.

Keeping it in the Family

Wrong Side of History • 508 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Marriage Society Health History Religion
  1. Cousin marriage was common among British nobility in the past, but its prevalence has declined due to health concerns and changing cultural norms. Many people were worried about its effects on children's health.
  2. The Catholic Church has historically opposed cousin marriages to promote social ties beyond the family, which helped shape modern democratic societies and reduce corruption.
  3. Despite health risks, cousin marriage remains popular in some communities, providing social and financial support. This can create strong networks but also lead to higher chances of genetic disorders in children.

Hearing the language of Christ on the road to Damascus

Wrong Side of History • 351 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion Culture History Travel Philosophy
  1. Maaloula is a small town in Syria where people still speak Aramaic, the language of Jesus. It's like a time capsule for ancient culture.
  2. The town has historical sites, including the Convent of St Thecla and a 2,000-year-old church. These places show the rich history and faith of the people.
  3. Maaloula is also a meeting point for different cultures, with locals and Iranian pilgrims mingling together. This creates a unique atmosphere of shared beliefs.

Why I Am A (Medieval) Catholic

Castalia • 699 implied HN points • 06 Jul 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion Philosophy Psychology Tradition Healing
  1. Medieval Catholicism offers a unique way to understand psychological states using the idea of demons and possession. This approach can help explain behaviors and emotions in a way that modern labels sometimes fail to capture.
  2. The Catholic tradition emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and redemption. This is shown through stories, like Dante's, which illustrate that even the worst actions can lead to healing through understanding and acceptance of one's sins.
  3. Religious language and belief systems can provide powerful support in overcoming struggles, like addiction. Many people find that embracing a higher power helps them in their journey towards recovery and self-acceptance.

On longing and the Asbury Revival.

The Corners by Nadia Bolz-Weber • 7645 implied HN points • 19 Feb 23
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion Prayer Worship Spirit
  1. The Asbury Revival in a small town in Kentucky is characterized by simplicity and humility, focusing on prayer and singing led by young college students.
  2. Critiques and analyses of the revival on social media highlight exhaustion from culture wars and the idolatry of ideology, detracting from the open-hearted awe and curiosity it aims to inspire.
  3. Despite past discomfort, the author longs for the authenticity and connection seen in the Asbury Revival, desiring to be un-self-conscious in devotion to God.

Why Is There Antisemitism?

Fake Noûs • 253 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture History Religion Society Politics Conflict
  1. Antisemitism has deep historical roots, where Jews have often been unfairly blamed for various problems in society. This has led to longstanding prejudices against them.
  2. Cultural and religious differences have led to misunderstandings, contributing to the negative views about Jewish people. Many times, leaders have used Jews as scapegoats to distract from other issues.
  3. Modern antisemitism is fueled by conspiracy theories and ongoing conflicts, particularly the Arab-Israeli conflict. This often intensifies negative perceptions of Jews, even though these biases are widespread beyond just that conflict.

Listening to Snakes and Bridesmaids

The Corners by Nadia Bolz-Weber • 6997 implied HN points • 26 Feb 23
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Spirituality Religion Christianity Biblical Interpretation
  1. The parable of the foolish bridesmaids teaches us to not rely on others but trust in the light of Christ within us.
  2. Parables are not about morals, but about uncovering hidden truths that can set us free.
  3. Listening to voices other than God's can lead us astray, like the bridesmaids who were distracted by external expectations.