Doubt is a naughty word in many religious and spiritual circles. It is often considered an obstacle, a distraction, an impediment, and in some cases, a weakness of character or a threat.
Historically, those who express doubt about dogma and official doctrine have been labeled heretics and have been persecuted, prosecuted, ostracized, and even killed. Thanks to that sordid past, the words heresy and heretic have taken on ominous overtones. They signal danger—either danger to the religious institution charged with protecting official dogma or danger to doubters from that institution.
Personally, I’m down with doubt, and I’m ready for a “Hooray for Heresy” bumper sticker. Doubt can be a catalyst to spiritual growth. Heresy can be the starting point of a process that, if handled well, leads to spiritual maturity…
You're reading a preview of
Spirituality & Health (Digital) - 1 Issue, November/December 2024