Divine Division: Understanding the Roots of Political Conflict

Religion cannot be divorced from humanity any more than truth can be divorced from reality. Just as truth is woven into the fabric of reality, so is religion intricately woven into human identity and societal structures. This intersection of religion and identity often manifests itself in politics, where political affiliations sometimes become the new form of religious identity for many individuals in America.

Religion and Politics: A New Divide

In today’s society, politics and religion frequently clash because of a fundamental lack of humility and openness to truth. Many people are eager to separate themselves from established religious institutions and traditional societal norms, often driven by a desire to reject aspects of reality that they find uncomfortable or limiting. This phenomenon reflects a deeper, divine division—a manifestation of hidden religion where societal structures and personal beliefs are inherently connected.

The Impact of Religion on Political Views

Religion and political affiliation are deeply intertwined. Often, people’s political views are heavily influenced by their religious beliefs, whether consciously acknowledged or not. In the United States, there is a significant push to distance oneself from organized religion, which many see as restrictive or outdated. This cultural shift is driven by various factors, including negative personal experiences with religious institutions, disillusionment with religious leaders, or philosophical objections to the problem of evil.

Structured vs. Unstructured Spirituality

When individuals distance themselves from organized religion, they may identify as “spiritual but not religious.” This distinction highlights a rejection of structured religious institutions in favor of personal, individualized beliefs. For instance, one might say, “I am a Muslim, and I follow Mohammad,” indicating adherence to a structured, organized religion. Conversely, someone might say, “I am spiritual, not religious,” reflecting a personal, unstructured approach to spirituality.

While the former statement reveals an adherence to a well-defined set of beliefs, the latter indicates a rejection of organized structures in favor of a more fluid, personal spirituality. However, it is crucial to recognize that even those who claim to be “spiritual but not religious” are practicing a form of religion, albeit an unstructured one.

The Illusion of Autonomy in Spirituality

Those who distance themselves from organized religion often seek personal autonomy in their beliefs, rejecting external challenges to their views. This approach can lead to moral relativism, where actions are judged based on individual preferences rather than universal standards of right and wrong. The belief that one’s personal spirituality is beyond societal critique can be problematic, as it overlooks the inherent need for shared values and truths.

The Religious Nature of Political Debates

Political debates on issues like abortion or same-sex marriage often reflect underlying religious beliefs, even when individuals claim to reject traditional religion. Arguments for or against these issues are often deeply rooted in moral and ethical frameworks that are, in essence, religious. Thus, even in secular contexts, political stances frequently echo religious convictions.