The Role of Religion in Human Life: A Journey from Kindergarten to God-realization

Religion, an ancient yet ever-evolving institution, plays a vital role in the lives of humans. What is religion? Why does religion exist, when animals and birds do not possess it? This article will explore the purposes of religion, its significance in human life, and the transformative journey from following its teachings to achieving self-realization and God-realization.

What and Why Religion?

Religion came into existence because humans are uniquely capable of understanding and grappling with complex concepts such as morality, ethics, and the concept of divine beings. Unlike animals and birds, which are driven by survival instincts, humans are faced with choices and dilemmas that require guidance, often in the form of spiritual teachings.

Religion, in a sense, serves as a moral compass, guiding individuals towards ethical behavior and shaping their relationships with one another. It emerges as a response to the human need to find meaning and purpose in a seemingly chaotic and often cruel world.

The Purpose of Religion

Religion serves several important purposes in human life:

Moral Framework: It provides a basis for moral beliefs and behaviors, offering guidelines and principles to live by. Sense of Community: Religion fosters a sense of belonging and connection, strengthening social bonds through shared rituals and traditions. Health and Well-being: Some research suggests that religious practices can have a positive impact on health outcomes, including stress reduction and increased longevity. Eternal Bliss: Religion addresses the inherent human aversion to death, providing a hope for eternal life and a comfortable disposition towards mortality.

Transformative Journey from Kindergarten to Spirituality

Religion can be likened to a formative stage in human development, much like kindergarten. It introduces us to the basic concepts of faith, hope, and morality. However, as we grow and mature, the teachings of religion alone may not be sufficient for our spiritual growth. Just as we move from childhood to adolescence and adulthood, we must transition from religious practices to a deeper understanding of spirituality.

Religion teaches us to follow scriptures, rituals, and dogmas, and instills in us a sense of faith and hope. It provides us with a starting point, a foundation upon which to build our spiritual journey. However, it is ultimately up to the individual to seek a more profound understanding of the divine, beyond the confines of traditional religious institutions.

As we progress, we may begin to question the beliefs and dogmas we were taught in childhood. This questioning can lead to a more personal and direct relationship with the divine, transcending the boundaries of organized religion. This journey, known as the transition from Gefühl der Religion zu Spirituality, involves a shift from following external rules to understanding the inner divine reality.

Ultimately, religion serves as a stepping stone to spirituality, a process of transformation from self-realization to God-realization. It is a journey from the outer to the inner, from the known to the unknown, and from the finite to the infinite.

In conclusion, religion is a significant and vital component of human life, providing structure, moral guidance, and a sense of community. However, as individuals grow and evolve, they must seek a deeper understanding of the divine, moving beyond the confines of organized religion and embracing a more personal and direct connection with the ultimate reality.