Spiritual and religious Nings

One of the great things about the Internet is that we now have the opportunity to share thoughts and ideas with people from all over the world, with all kinds of backgrounds. This is also a great opportunity for dialog between the various religions.

Buddhism inspiration: Posters and Art Prints

Buddhism posters and Buddha art prints

I just love Buddha posters and posters devoted to Buddhism in general. They always look so peaceful and calm. The best ones, I think, also include some spiritual saying or quote from the Buddhist tradition.

Theosophy and the Theosophical Society

The Theosophical Society was founded in 1875 at a time when the West was just becoming seriously aware of the existence of religions and people elsewhere. Intelligent people could no longer classify Islam as devilish for instance, or Hinduism as barbaric. But what then? The serious study of religion was started at universities - the first professor of comparative religion got his post in 1875.

John Hick - the pluralistic hypothesis

John Hick is a 20th century philosopher who has started a revolution in religious philosophy with his 'pluralistic hypothesis'. At the basis of his philosophy is the idea that it isn't doctrine but spiritual experience that is at the root of religion.

Theosophical Society

The Theosophical Society is my favorite spiritual organisation. It doesn't claim to be anything more than a collection of seekers after truth - but what a collection of seekers it is :)

I've met atheists, philosophers, artists and many pretty wise people. Being part of a community like that is just inspiring.

Here's more on the Objects of the Theosophical SOciety - and what it stands for in general

And more about what the founders of the TS felt is should be about.

Buddhism

Buddhism is one type of religion / spirituality that is very popular in the west - especially with people who have outgrown the religion they grew up with, yet haven't chosen an organized religion to replace it.

Religion and Spirituality

religion and spirituality are two very related terms. Religion often stands for a more organised, social happening. Spirituality implies a 'spiritual' experience, internal motivations and inspiriation. The two can't really be separated.