The hottest Religion Substack posts right now

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Protopia and The Future of Heterodoxy

The Bigger Picture • 1997 implied HN points • 25 Nov 22
📖 Philosophy Religion
  1. Difficult conversations are necessary and can lead to new ways of thinking and understanding.
  2. The concept of Protopia suggests gradual improvement rather than aiming for perfection or utopia.
  3. Acknowledging and working with polarisation rather than trying to overcome it can lead to meaningful growth and understanding.

DUKE OF EARL II

Cintra Wilson Feels Your Pain • 864 implied HN points • 27 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Religion
  1. The theater experience described in the post was intense and unforgettable.
  2. The play involved real-like scenes and triggered strong emotions from the audience.
  3. The ending of the play resulted in a touching and unexpected moment of communal reflection and faith.

2025 Kvetching & Books

Kvetch • 69 implied HN points • 22 Dec 25
📚 Literature Religion
  1. There is an urgent appeal to support the family of Yaacov Levitan, who was killed in the Bondi Massacre. Donations are requested and come with tiered acknowledgements like shoutouts, hour-long calls, or custom writing for larger gifts.
  2. The year in review notes 29 pieces published in 2025, steady subscriber growth, and several Australia-focused essays that influenced public discourse. Subscriptions remain free.
  3. The reading list is wide-ranging across history, religion, WWII, Israel, fiction, and other topics, helped by faster audiobook listening. A long deep dive on New Zealand history is planned, though the writer feels conflicted about posting given recent tragic events.

Anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, and the Strip Between

Pen>Sword • 658 implied HN points • 28 Nov 23
🌍 World Politics Religion
  1. The ongoing violence in Gaza has reshaped the consumption and dissemination of mass death, especially on digital platforms like social media.
  2. Anti-Semitism and Islamophobia are closely linked forms of bigotry rooted in white supremacy, with distinct but similarly inferior stereotypes about Jews and Muslims.
  3. The political cooption of anti-Semitism and the colonial tenets of Zionism undermine genuine reckonings with these forms of bigotry, perpetuating violence and hindering equality.

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

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1298 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics 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.
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Stiff Upper Lip? 😐😢😭

Non-Boring History • 432 implied HN points • 30 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Religion
  1. Crying has a rich history in Britain, challenging stereotypes about emotion.
  2. Historical figures like Margery Kempe show that public crying was not uncommon in the past.
  3. Exploring the history of public displays of emotions can lead to a deeper understanding of cultures and societies.

Smith of Heaven

Becoming Noble • 817 implied HN points • 19 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Religion
  1. The medieval Icelandic hymn 'Hear, Smith of the Heavens' reflects a blend of Christian and pagan elements, showing the process of inculturation.
  2. Catholic doctrine encourages the transformation of cultures without destroying them, aiming to purify and restore in Christ.
  3. Figures like Bishop Guðmundur Arason in Icelandic history embody the transition from pagan to Christian beliefs, showcasing the superiority of Christian spiritual power.

Trying To Make Sense Of The Venus Figurines?

Grey Goose Chronicles • 805 implied HN points • 02 Apr 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Religion
  1. The interpretation of Venus figurines has evolved over time with theories ranging from race and primitivism to goddess worship and fertility magic.
  2. Scholars have debated whether the figurines are realistic representations of Palaeolithic people or symbolic artifacts with functions related to protection, fertility, or ancestoral worship.
  3. Recent studies have explored the possibility of the figurines being dressed, connected to clothing, and even representing maternal figures based on archaeological evidence.

Feverish enthusiasm, no pleasing some people, and being Batman

The Pillar • 786 implied HN points • 01 Sep 23
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion
  1. The editor took a vacation and had to deal with being sick, but found a silver lining in being away from work and off his phone.
  2. Pope Francis is making a significant trip to Mongolia and there's an interesting article about Catholicism in the country.
  3. There is an impactful story about sexual assault charges being dropped against Theodore McCarrick due to mental incompetence.

A Library of Books That Really Changed Minds

Reactionary Feminist • 22 implied HN points • 24 Jan 26
🎭️ Culture Religion
  1. Readers who change their minds draw on a wide range of books — fiction, philosophy, history, science, and religious works — not just contemporary bestsellers. These diverse genres offer different ways to challenge assumptions and reshape worldview.
  2. Many of the books that shifted people’s views are critiques of modern progressive ideas, managerial elites, or prevailing secular dogmas. They often question ‘woke’ orthodoxy, identity politics, and the cultural power of experts.
  3. The books that most often change minds are long, rigorous, and committed to truth rather than tribal comfort. Serious recommendations and sustained, argument-driven writing help bring readers to new perspectives.

Relevance Realization, Cerebral Hemispheres, and the Reconciliation of Science and Mythology

Intimations of a New Worldview • 766 implied HN points • 05 Apr 23
📖 Philosophy Religion
  1. The left and right hemispheres of the brain are involved in different cognitive styles, such as precision and generalization.
  2. There is evidence for the significant and systematic differences between the cerebral hemispheres, influencing how attention is allocated and relevance is realized.
  3. The conflict between science and mythology can be seen as analogous to the differences in cognitive styles between the left and right hemispheres, emphasizing the importance of integrating different approaches.

Leftism's Not Dead

Letters from Fiddler's Greene • 766 implied HN points • 08 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Religion
  1. Leftist authors often rely on expensive academic books to deflect criticism.
  2. Engaging in meaningful dialogue and understanding opposing perspectives is crucial for intellectual growth.
  3. Both Christianity and leftism must confront their challenges in a complex, modern world.

Who Cares Wins

Wrong Side of History • 360 implied HN points • 15 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Religion
  1. Morality can be affected by what people value and believe. When people feel there's a lack of guidance, they may turn to extreme actions.
  2. People often become radicalized by a strong sense of duty and loyalty to their beliefs. They see their actions as a form of protection for their community.
  3. Understanding why individuals choose violence can help in finding ways to address their motivations and prevent such actions in the future.

When God says "no"

SOAR with Sara Hagerty • 746 implied HN points • 12 Sep 23
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion
  1. Experiencing a 'no' from God can feel different depending on the stage of life you're in.
  2. When faced with God's 'no', continue with daily life but feel the emotions beneath the surface.
  3. Finding peace and joy after God's 'no' is possible by being held by Him.

Judaism, Atheism, and the Language of the Sacred: A Religious Mini-Memoir (UNLOCKED)

Philosophy for the People w/Ben Burgis • 599 implied HN points • 19 Nov 23
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion
  1. The author reflects on their journey from Judaism to atheism, highlighting the conflict between personal beliefs and traditional religious views.
  2. The philosophical debate on the existence of God played a significant role in the author's transition to atheism, questioning the concept of a deity in the face of suffering and evil.
  3. Despite identifying as an atheist, recent events have rekindled a desire for religious language to articulate deep emotions and moral outrage in response to tragic events.

No, Heritage, religion doesn’t prevent divorce

Sex and the State • 26 implied HN points • 19 Jan 26
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion
  1. Divorce rates have fallen in recent decades even as religious attendance declined, so less religiosity hasn’t driven more divorces.
  2. Lower divorce among religious people is mostly a selection effect: regular churchgoers tend to be more conscientious, wealthier, and better educated—traits that predict marital stability—while people who identify as religious but rarely attend often have higher divorce rates.
  3. Religious belief or getting people back into pews alone won’t reduce divorces; addressing underlying behaviors and socioeconomic factors like cohabitation, income, education, and personality is what actually predicts marital outcomes.

Take me to church

Splattern • 59 implied HN points • 09 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture Religion
  1. The community comes together to support each other, especially in times of need, like fundraising for church improvements and medical expenses.
  2. People in the village prioritize their connection to the land and family, working hard to grow their own food, even without modern machinery.
  3. Unlike in many places, the concept of a village in this community truly embodies teamwork and collective responsibility, creating a strong support system for everyone.

The Divine Engineer of Ancient Sichuan

Chris Arnade Walks the World • 826 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Religion
  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.

Be Still and Know

The Abbey of Misrule • 337 implied HN points • 01 Jul 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion
  1. There are different types of people in the world, and some seek deeper meaning in life. This search often leads them to seek advice or guidance from wise figures.
  2. Struggles with self-worth and faith can be overwhelming. Moments of desperation may lead to reflections on spirituality and the desire to find purpose.
  3. Saintly figures can inspire hope and provide a glimpse of what it means to live a meaningful life. Their authentic kindness and wisdom can challenge our doubts and fears.

Watching women cannibalize themselves for fun and profit

Men Yell at Me • 444 implied HN points • 28 May 25
🎭️ Culture Religion
  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.

Douglas Groothuis Joins The Worldview Bulletin

The Worldview Bulletin Newsletter • 353 implied HN points • 17 Jan 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion
  1. Renowned Christian philosopher and apologist Douglas Groothuis joins The Worldview Bulletin as a regular contributor.
  2. In his first article, Groothuis discusses the 'oddness' of Jesus and how it challenges common perceptions.
  3. Jesus' actions and teachings in the Bible often display a level of complexity and depth that challenge traditional understanding.

Diary: (2) John Oakes on Silence

Book Post • 314 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Religion
  1. Being in stillness and silence can be beneficial for new ways of thinking and being
  2. Taking time for solitude and quiet can lead to inner reflection and creativity
  3. Moderation in experiencing silence and solitude can have a soothing effect on the mind

James Lindsay Is Right.

Holly’s Newsletter • 1607 implied HN points • 18 Feb 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Religion
  1. James Lindsay believes gender ideology is a form of grooming, making children more vulnerable to abuse.
  2. Teaching children a hierarchy of trusted adults can help protect them in public places.
  3. Gender ideology can blur children's boundaries and instincts, making them more susceptible to predators.

The Prophet — the Archetype of Societal Renaissance

The Living Philosophy • 314 implied HN points • 29 Jan 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion
  1. The Prophet archetype emerged as a new way of being religious, challenging the traditional roles of priests and magicians.
  2. Prophets were outsiders but not rebels, called into their roles by a higher power and providing a vantage point to critique the existing system.
  3. The Exemplary Prophets emphasized how life should be lived, while the Ethical Prophets focused more on transcendent doctrine, leading to varying prophetic traditions.

Are Jews Avenging Their Foreskins?

Kevin’s Newsletter • 530 implied HN points • 25 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Religion
  1. The Israeli actions in Gaza are seen as an irrational act of revenge based on false narratives.
  2. Circumcision plays a significant role in Jewish identity and history, influencing attitudes towards others.
  3. The Jewish historical narratives often involve themes of persecution, triumph, and vengeance against enemies.

Social Conservatism as 4D Chess

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 2048 implied HN points • 11 Mar 24
📖 Philosophy Religion
  1. Social conservatives make claims about higher-order effects to justify their positions on issues like abortion and euthanasia, but these claims often lack evidence or are disproven by cross-national comparisons.
  2. Slippery slope arguments can be valid in limited contexts, but broad claims like legalizing prostitution affecting overall societal values need substantial evidence, which is often lacking.
  3. Government policies in free countries have limited influence on shaping culture predictably; the impact is often chaotic and hard to plan for, as seen by historical examples of social policies not aligning with expected cultural changes.

Two Communities

David Friedman’s Substack • 305 implied HN points • 02 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Religion
  1. Porcfest and Less Online are two different events with unique cultures. Porcfest has a more casual, practical vibe while Less Online focuses on rationality and future tech.
  2. The people at Porcfest tend to be more traditional, with a mix of families and libertarians, whereas Less Online attracts more intellectuals who often reject conventional beliefs, including religion.
  3. Both events differ greatly in cost and organization, with Less Online being more structured and expensive compared to the decentralized, more affordable Porcfest.

The Gulf and the Silence

The Abbey of Misrule • 641 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion
  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.

No Self, No Politics

Everything Is Bullshit • 511 implied HN points • 05 Jul 23
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion
  1. The author discusses how combining spirituality with evolutionary psychology can be beneficial for personal growth.
  2. The text highlights the idea that political beliefs are often shaped by alliances and power dynamics rather than truth or personal values.
  3. It suggests that it's okay to prioritize personal growth and non-political actions over being deeply involved in political discourse.

(The Divine) 1. Voracious Life (Khepri)

Microanimism • 79 implied HN points • 01 Jun 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Religion
  1. The sun has a profound connection to humanity and microbial life, influencing circadian rhythms and photosynthesis.
  2. Khepri, the scarab-headed god in Ancient Egyptian religion, symbolizes the life-giving and renewing qualities of the sun through resurrection.
  3. Bacteria can enter a state of suspended animation by forming tough spores, demonstrating voracious life deriving seemingly from nothing.

The Rosicrucian Enlightenment

Fields & Energy • 299 implied HN points • 05 Jan 24
💾 History Religion
  1. The Rosicrucian movement was influential in shaping modern science, linking spiritual beliefs with the pursuit of knowledge and experimentation.
  2. Prominent figures like John Dee played key roles in merging different ideas of science and magic while promoting natural knowledge for the benefit of humanity.
  3. Despite its initially hopeful visions, the Rosicrucian adventure faced challenges, leading to disappointment and a shift in focus towards reforming society through science and brotherly love.

The Distant Sun

Becoming Noble • 478 implied HN points • 21 Jul 23
🌍 World Politics Religion
  1. The protection of space and claimed faith allowed a community to operate in secrecy and avoid legal intervention.
  2. Owning a large swath of land provided a secretive community with distance from scrutiny and protection from outside interference.
  3. Lessons from secretive communities can be applied to identify opportunities for invoking similar protective measures.

Jews, the first modern people

Yasha Levine • 471 implied HN points • 19 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Religion
  1. Jews have been successful in the modern world because they historically valued text and learning, being ahead of the game when it comes to worshipping the written word.
  2. The Jews were seen as the first modern people by embracing modernization traits such as urbanization, literacy, and intellectual pursuits.
  3. The Jewish specialties like commerce, law, medicine, textual interpretation, and cultural mediation have become core pursuits in modern society, making Jews exemplary ancients and model moderns.