(Here are Pt 1, Pt 2, Pt 3, and Pt 4)
So far we've looked at the basics of religion vs spirituality, gods and paradigms. Taking all that into consideration, we'll now look at the impact of dogma, which Merriam-Webster describes as:
What we have here is the basis of almost all religious beliefs.
We have our spiritual needs, which are met by some sort of religious construct (refer to Pt 2), which is shaped entirely by our paradigms (refer to Pt 4).
What we humans love to do though, is claim our particular beliefs are the only "truth". We my be condescending enough to allow that others have partial truth, but really, they are either mistaken or deluded and, far too often, completely vilified and even demonised.
Of course, we can't all be right!
When we realise how our paradigms completely govern our perceptions of "life, the universe and everything" we have no choice but to accept that any belief system concerning spirituality must be built entirely around our paradigms.
This makes every person's beliefs subjective, even if they are based on definitive texts! No two people read something with exactly the same understanding or comprehension - it's impossible. This is why religions create doctrines in an attempt to minimise this problem.
This then creates a system that ends up trying to force others to a strict set of beliefs that indicate whether you are "one of us" or not.
The inevitable result is division, enmity, exclusion, pride and a host of other very unhealthy practices.
I would go so far as to say dogma is the most destructive force humans have to deal with. Nothing creates intense division, hatred and bigotry as quickly and efficiently.
- Dogma has created thousands of divisions in all religions, all claiming they alone have the truth.
- Dogma has created intense bigotry, racism and hatred.
- Dogma has created persecution of minorities including, of course, LGBTI.
- Dogma has created endless wars and even genocide.
It has no redeeming qualities.
Take a few moments to think about your own beliefs. Do you recognise that others see things differently? Do you hold on to your beliefs in a way that excludes others in any way? Do you use your beliefs to judge others in any way? What would happen if you allowed yourself to accept that all religious beliefs are subjective?
As always, feel free to comment 🙂
