Paradox and Pragmatism in Religious Literature

It is believed there about 4200 religions in the world today. All claim to reveal the truth of reality, and in doing so prescribe righteous behavior. Consider the various means to practice one’s spirituality, e.g. mystic, clergy, monastic, sage, householder, healer, and the complexity of faith increases exponentially. Historians, philosophers, and theologians attempt to codify this wealth of spiritual wisdom but can easily confuse their audience. Historical accounts frequently omit facts and contradict, past and present sociocultural politics can influence what is deemed true, metaphor and allegory can be taken literally, and intuitive knowing does not always take over after reason reaches its point of diminishing return. For those not wedded to convention and logic, paradox in religious literature can serve to open the doors to aspects of reality not accurately recorded, easily described, or understood. And when coupled with one’s willingness to test the utility of religious concepts or precepts through life experience, can guide the seeker toward his or her spiritual goals. 

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