The hottest Religion Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Science Topics

Essay Club: In Praise of the Gods by Simon Sarris

Mind & Mythos • 159 implied HN points • 23 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Religion
  1. We rely too much on rational thinking and it makes us feel disconnected from the world. This over-focus on logic can take away our ability to feel, experience, and connect.
  2. To regain a sense of wholeness, we should trust our intuition, celebrate the process of learning, and embrace the wonder around us. Engaging with stories, rituals, and experiences can help build a richer understanding of life.
  3. Our experiences and feelings, including gratitude and wonder, are important. They remind us that there is more to life than just logic and reasoning, and that beauty and meaning can be found all around us.

Genocidal Psychopaths Celebrate International Day To Combat Islamophobia

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1625 implied HN points • 16 Mar 24
📰 News Religion
  1. International Day to Combat Islamophobia led to hypocritical statements by political figures condemning Islamophobia while engaged in actions that fuel it.
  2. The Democratic party is characterized as masking the violent actions of the US empire with proclamations of love and support for marginalized groups, while continuing to engage in harmful policies globally.
  3. The post criticizes Democrats for outwardly condemning Islamophobia while being complicit in atrocities against Muslim populations, highlighting the disconnect between their words and actions.

An Introduction to Spengler’s Decline

The Oswald Spengler Project • 459 implied HN points • 05 Sep 23
📚 Literature Religion
  1. The Spenglerian Theory views cultures as living organisms with predictable life cycles of growth, decay, and ultimate demise.
  2. Spengler critiques the conventional classification of history and introduces a Copernican system that treats all cultures as equal, focusing on eight distinct high cultures.
  3. In each culture's life cycle, distinct stages emerge such as youth, maturity, decline, and the transition to civilization, marked by shifts in power, philosophy, religion, and societal structures.

Origins of debt: Michael Hudson reveals how financial oligarchies in Greece & Rome shaped our world

Geopolitical Economy Report • 458 implied HN points • 25 May 23
💾 History Religion
  1. Debt has a long history in shaping societies, from ancient Mesopotamia to Rome, and understanding this history can provide insights into modern debt-based economies.
  2. There have always been alternatives to the debt-centric economic models, with concepts like debt forgiveness and economic balance being seen as sacred in many ancient civilizations.
  3. US and other first-world countries should consider the moral implications of collecting debt from struggling Global South countries, especially when it's used to fuel conflicts and harm society.

Creating Our Own Commandments?

The Worldview Bulletin Newsletter • 275 implied HN points • 08 Jan 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion
  1. Different perspectives on creating moral commandments were shared, some based on utilitarianism while others emphasized faithfulness and love.
  2. The Ten Commandments focus on relationship with God and others, setting a higher moral standard.
  3. The idea that moral laws must come from a transcendent, objective source like the Ten Commandments was highlighted.
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December 24, 2025

Letters from an American • 34 implied HN points • 25 Dec 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion
  1. Warm holiday wishes are offered to everyone, whether they celebrate or not.
  2. There is gratitude for those who are fortunate this year to have a roof over their heads, food to eat, and loved ones nearby.
  3. There is empathy for people who are struggling and a hopeful reminder that Christmas marks the time when the light starts to return.

Hume in Hell (UNLOCKED)

Philosophy for the People w/Ben Burgis • 758 implied HN points • 01 Jan 23
📖 Philosophy Religion
  1. David Hume's essays on suicide and the afterlife delve into questioning common beliefs even when granting believers' core premises.
  2. Hume challenges the concept of suicide as a sin against God, arguing that humans cannot disrupt God's plan or transgress against it through suicide.
  3. The essays lead to a broader reflection that morality should be grounded in human considerations, not divine commands, opening up a secular perspective in philosophy.

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 Religion
  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.

Rituals of Sacrifice

NOW IS GOOD • 432 implied HN points • 28 Sep 23
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion
  1. Rituals of sacrifice help us connect with something bigger than ourselves
  2. Sacrifice can be a way to challenge ourselves and find honor in our limits
  3. Reconnecting with traditions can bring a deeper understanding of identity and purpose

I'm a Marxist and an Atheist But I Don't Think Religion Would Wither Away Under Socialism

Philosophy for the People w/Ben Burgis • 419 implied HN points • 25 Jun 23
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion
  1. Religious beliefs can be objectively false but still reflect permanent human aspects. Debates on this topic will continue.
  2. Even though Marxists critique religion as the 'opiate of the people,' not all Marxists see it as a simple bashing of religion.
  3. The idea that religion would disappear in a socialist society might not be entirely accurate.

Giger's Gargoyle

Marlene’s Newsletter • 4 implied HN points • 14 Feb 26
🎭️ Culture Religion
  1. During restoration the abbey replaced most of its gargoyles, and one new carving clearly resembles the xenomorph from Alien — a choice that church leaders apparently approved, possibly as the mason having a bit of fun.
  2. H.R. Giger’s dark, biomechanical art mixes occult and erotic themes and has strongly influenced films, album art, and horror aesthetics, with a museum that explicitly displays satanic motifs.
  3. Paisley Abbey has a grim history — from the 1697 witch trials to a later conviction of a former organist for child abuse — which gives the site a troubling, shadowy context.

How Does Religion affect Gender Relations across South Asia?

The Great Gender Divergence • 235 implied HN points • 17 Jan 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion
  1. Female employment and divorce rates are low in South Asia due to different religious majorities in India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
  2. Religion can reinforce patriarchy in four ways, like close-knit communities unquestioningly following teachings and members conforming to gain respect.
  3. Scripture can be used to justify the Patrilocal Trap, religious violence and discrimination may exacerbate gender inequalities.

Propriety is Important

Doc Hammer's Anvil • 412 implied HN points • 19 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Religion
  1. Propriety is a concept that describes expected behavior in society.
  2. Different cultures have different rules of propriety, leading to conflicts.
  3. Current cultural changes may lead to attempts to enforce a new propriety on others.

Ravings of a Christmas Hater

Handwaving Freakoutery • 611 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture 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.

You're so smart

Becoming Noble • 398 implied HN points • 07 Jul 23
📖 Philosophy Religion
  1. The author highlights the importance of encouraging readers to engage in thoughtful discussions and voice their opinions.
  2. There is a discussion on academia's need for a more formal network and standards, similar to a sacred order, to enhance knowledge sharing.
  3. The post delves into the complexities surrounding AI and how it impacts society biologically and socially, urging a deeper understanding of the system's dynamics.

A Merry Little Chrismukkah

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 579 implied HN points • 26 Dec 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion
  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.

Christopher Hitchens vs. Christmas Cheer

Philosophy for the People w/Ben Burgis • 259 implied HN points • 24 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Religion
  1. A certain group believes atheists dislike Christmas, but data shows 85% of non-religious Americans still celebrate the holiday.
  2. Christopher Hitchens took a Grinch-like stance on Christmas, but atheists can find reasons to enjoy the season.
  3. There is a case for atheists to appreciate and participate in Christmas or other holiday traditions without religious beliefs.

Rise and Fall

The Abbey of Misrule • 502 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion
  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.

Misquoting Darwin

Going Awol • 139 implied HN points • 11 Mar 24
📚 Literature Religion
  1. Charles Darwin expressed doubts about the reliability of human cognitive faculties, specifically in forming abstruse metaphysical and theological beliefs.
  2. Darwin's doubt should be understood in the context of his concerns about certain philosophical and religious convictions, rather than everyday beliefs.
  3. Apologists quoting Darwin out of context have misunderstood his doubts, leading to misconceptions about the scope of his concerns.

Diary: Ian Frazier, Favorite Book

Book Post • 353 implied HN points • 17 Oct 23
📚 Literature Religion
  1. True Grit is a beloved book about a quest for justice and faith.
  2. The novel explores complex religious themes like Predestination and Election.
  3. The characters in True Grit reflect the diverse and often rugged nature of frontier America.

The Rent Is Too Damn High.

News Items • 196 implied HN points • 25 Jan 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Religion
  1. T cells can be reprogrammed to fight aging by eliminating senescent cells.
  2. 28% of Americans now identify as religiously unaffiliated, making them the largest group.
  3. The 'Nones' group includes atheists, agnostics, and those with no specific religion.

December 27, 2025

Letters from an American • 26 implied HN points • 28 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Religion
  1. The administration promoted explicit Christian nationalist messaging from top agencies, undermining the constitutional separation of church and state and privileging one faith in public life.
  2. The president ordered military strikes framed as avenging attacks on Christians in Nigeria, showing a faith-based, politically targeted approach to foreign policy that appealed to his evangelical base.
  3. Government power was used for partisan and exclusionary ends—through anti-immigrant propaganda, threats against religious minorities, and a politicized pardon process tied to personal and financial interests—indicating a broader authoritarian and corrosive pattern.

Jordan Peterson Thinks Atheists "Unconsciously" Worship Pan (UNLOCKED)

Philosophy for the People w/Ben Burgis • 559 implied HN points • 29 Jan 23
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion
  1. Despite Peterson's critiques of atheism, his own religious beliefs are unclear and seem to blend pragmatism with ambiguity.
  2. Peterson's views on truth suggest that he struggles to fully commit to asserting traditional Christian beliefs with certainty, indicating a disconnect between his philosophical beliefs and personal convictions.
  3. Struggling with defining his beliefs, Peterson's rhetoric on God appears more as a mix of naturalistic pantheism and ambiguous theological language rather than a clear-cut adherence to traditional religious doctrines.

Soul-Burning

Less Foolish • 353 implied HN points • 27 Jun 23
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion
  1. Suffering can lead to spiritual development through soul-making.
  2. Soul-burning can be a result of following one's deepest calling.
  3. Expecting challenges and hardships is essential for growth and fulfillment.

Grab A Stiff Drink And Settle In

The View from Rural Missouri by Jess Piper • 258 implied HN points • 03 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Religion
  1. Pre-filed legislative bills in Missouri include controversial proposals like restricting pronoun use based on religious beliefs.
  2. Missouri legislators are proposing bills related to firearms, national mottos, school vaccinations, and abortion restrictions.
  3. Some proposed bills focus on contentious topics like sex education, gun laws, and official state designations.

Keeping it in the Family

Wrong Side of History • 508 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture 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.

Changing values

The Newsletter of (Not Quite) Everything • 334 implied HN points • 22 Feb 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Religion
  1. Religious people are not barred from public life, despite some claims to the contrary.
  2. Being honest about personal beliefs, even if controversial, is important in leadership.
  3. The divide in discussions about free speech and cancel culture often revolves around whether faith-based views should receive special treatment in public discourse.

Feliz Noche Buena!

A Biologist's Guide to Life • 27 implied HN points • 24 Dec 25
🎭️ Culture Religion
  1. New Mexico’s history isn’t a straight line but a long, layered blend of Native American, Spanish, and Anglo influences—what people call mestizaje.
  2. Albuquerque and the Rio Grande are cultural crossroads where ancient migration routes, the Camino Real, and many peoples and trades have intersected for centuries.
  3. Local traditions like noche buena, tamales, and luminarias show religious and cultural syncretism and celebrate community, pride, and the joy of living in a blended culture.

RKUL: Time Well Spent 05/16/2025

Razib Khan's Unsupervised Learning • 194 implied HN points • 16 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Religion
  1. Spending your time wisely is important, especially with so many distractions like the internet and your phone. Focus on activities that enrich your mind instead.
  2. Books about anthropology and culture can provide valuable insights into how societies evolve and adapt. There are many fascinating works out there that challenge common misconceptions.
  3. Understanding the historical context of cultures helps us comprehend modern societies. Books that explore ancient history can offer important lessons about our current cultural dynamics.

There are no good right-wing artists

Becoming Noble • 358 implied HN points • 22 Feb 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Religion
  1. Producing great art requires more than talent and opportunity; the necessary support systems have been declining over the past century.
  2. There is a significant difference in how left-wing and right-wing artists are educated and supported, affecting their ability to create impactful art.
  3. Great right-wing art needs to be viscerally beautiful, standing on its own merit and referencing universal truths that our current age may suppress.

'Such were the works of Walsingham'

The Abbey of Misrule • 357 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion
  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.