The idea of divine scripture as free from error is central to many religions. This perception usually extends to the unique manuscripts, translations, or interpretations relying on the precise custom. For instance, some traditions may think about a particular translation to be the authoritative and error-free rendering of the divine message, whereas others might concentrate on the unique language the textual content was revealed in. Understanding the nuances of how this idea is utilized inside completely different religion traditions is essential for deciphering non secular texts and practices.
Traditionally, the concept of scriptural inerrancy has performed a big position in shaping theological doctrines, moral frameworks, and communal practices. Attributing divine origin and absolute fact to spiritual texts offers a basis for ethical authority, non secular steerage, and a way of shared id inside non secular communities. This view has profound implications for a way believers perceive the character of fact, the connection between humanity and the divine, and the interpretation of non secular regulation and custom. Its affect might be noticed in historic occasions, non secular debates, and the event of non secular establishments.
Additional exploration of this matter will delve into particular examples of how completely different non secular traditions strategy the idea of scriptural inerrancy and tackle the challenges and complexities related to this doctrine. It will embrace analyzing varied interpretations, analyzing the historic growth of those interpretations, and contemplating the influence of those beliefs on up to date non secular life.
1. Divine Origin
The idea of divine origin is key to understanding the assumption in scriptural inerrancy. It posits that the textual content isn’t merely the product of human mind however originates from a divine supply, imbuing it with distinctive authority and fact. This origin story kinds the bedrock upon which claims of infallibility are constructed and warrants cautious examination.
-
Revelation
Revelation refers back to the course of by which the divine communicates with humanity. This communication can take varied kinds, comparable to direct pronouncements, impressed visions, or divinely guided writings. Examples embrace Moses receiving the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai or the Apostle Paul’s visions. Within the context of scriptural inerrancy, revelation serves because the mechanism by which the divine message is transmitted, making certain its purity and truthfulness.
-
Inspiration
Inspiration is the divine affect exerted on the human authors or scribes who recorded the sacred texts. Whereas acknowledging human involvement within the writing course of, inspiration emphasizes the divine steerage that ensures the accuracy and authority of the message. Completely different traditions maintain various views on the diploma of divine management, starting from direct dictation to extra refined types of inspiration. This understanding of inspiration is essential to the declare of scriptural infallibility.
-
Transmission
Transmission encompasses the method by which the sacred texts have been preserved and handed down by generations. This contains copying, translating, and deciphering the unique scriptures. The integrity of the transmission course of is vital for sustaining the assumption in an infallible phrase. Completely different traditions have developed elaborate strategies to make sure correct transmission, comparable to meticulous scribal practices and the institution of authoritative canons.
-
Canonization
Canonization is the method by which sure texts are acknowledged as authoritative and included throughout the sacred canon. This course of includes advanced historic, theological, and communal elements. Establishing a canon defines the boundaries of divinely impressed scripture and distinguishes it from different non secular or literary works. The canonization course of is important for outlining which texts are thought-about infallible inside a specific religion custom.
These interwoven sides of divine originrevelation, inspiration, transmission, and canonizationprovide the framework for understanding how the idea of an infallible phrase is established and maintained inside non secular traditions. Analyzing these components critically presents insights into the complexities and nuances of this perception and its influence on religion and follow.
2. Absolute Reality
The idea of absolute fact is inextricably linked to the assumption in an infallible phrase of God. It posits that the divinely impressed scriptures include unchanging and universally legitimate truths, offering a basis for understanding the world and humanity’s place inside it. This declare of absolute fact has profound implications for a way believers interpret scripture, formulate doctrines, and have interaction with the world.
-
Inerrancy
Inerrancy asserts that the scriptures are free from error in all issues, together with historic, scientific, and theological particulars. This view usually extends to the unique manuscripts or particular translations deemed authoritative. For instance, some interpretations of biblical inerrancy preserve that the creation account in Genesis is a literal and correct depiction of the origins of the universe. This dedication to inerrancy shapes how believers perceive the connection between religion and motive and the way they interpret scientific discoveries.
-
Divine Authority
The assumption in absolute fact establishes the scriptures as the final word supply of authority on issues of religion, morals, and non secular steerage. This divine authority supersedes human motive or expertise. As an illustration, adherence to particular dietary legal guidelines or prohibitions in opposition to sure behaviors could be grounded within the perception that these commandments symbolize absolute divine mandates. The idea of divine authority considerably impacts moral decision-making and the event of non secular regulation.
-
Universality and Immutability
Absolute fact is commonly understood as common and immutable, transcending cultural and historic contexts. This implies the truths contained throughout the scriptures are thought-about relevant to all folks always. For instance, the idea of divine justice or the ideas of affection and compassion are sometimes seen as common truths relevant no matter cultural background. This attitude influences how believers interact with completely different cultures and interpret historic occasions.
-
Basis for Perception and Apply
The idea of absolute fact offers a basis for non secular perception and follow. It presents a framework for understanding the character of actuality, the aim of human existence, and the trail to salvation. As an illustration, doctrines relating to the afterlife or the character of sin and redemption are sometimes grounded within the perception that the scriptures reveal absolute truths about these issues. This basis shapes particular person beliefs, communal practices, and the general worldview of believers.
These sides of absolute truthinerrancy, divine authority, universality, and its position as a basis for beliefare central to understanding the influence of believing in an infallible phrase of God. These interconnected ideas form non secular interpretations, affect ethical frameworks, and supply a foundation for navigating life’s complexities. Additional exploration requires analyzing how completely different non secular traditions interpret and apply these ideas inside their particular contexts and fascinating with the challenges and criticisms raised in opposition to the notion of absolute fact.
3. Authoritative Information
The idea of an infallible phrase of God inherently positions scripture as an authoritative information for believers. This authority shapes particular person lives, communal practices, and interpretations of the world. Understanding the character and implications of this authority is essential for comprehending its affect on non secular perception and follow.
-
Supply of Ethical Rules
Scriptures believed to be infallible usually function the final word supply of ethical ideas. These ideas present a framework for moral decision-making, guiding believers on points starting from private conduct to social justice. The Ten Commandments, for instance, provide a transparent set of ethical tips for individuals who think about them divinely ordained. This reliance on scripture for ethical course influences particular person conduct, societal norms, and authorized frameworks inside non secular communities.
-
Basis for Non secular Regulation
In many non secular traditions, scriptural authority kinds the premise for non secular regulation and authorized interpretations. Particular passages or interpretations are used to justify explicit practices, rituals, or authorized rulings. As an illustration, dietary legal guidelines in Judaism and Islam derive instantly from scriptural mandates. This connection between scripture and regulation highlights the sensible implications of viewing a textual content as divinely impressed and infallible.
-
Steerage for Non secular Progress
Believers usually flip to scripture as a information for navigating their non secular journeys. The textual content might provide insights into non secular practices, comparable to prayer and meditation, or present knowledge for overcoming challenges and discovering that means in life. The Bhagavad Gita, for instance, serves as a information for non secular growth inside Hinduism. This position as a non secular information emphasizes the private and transformative potential of partaking with a textual content believed to be infallible.
-
Interpretation and Utility
Whereas the idea of an infallible phrase suggests an unchanging fact, the interpretation and utility of that fact can fluctuate considerably. Completely different denominations or faculties of thought inside a faith might interpret the identical passage in several methods, resulting in various practices and beliefs. The various interpretations of the idea of jihad in Islam exemplify this problem. Due to this fact, understanding the processes of interpretation and utility is important for comprehending the complexities of scriptural authority.
These sides of scriptural authorityas a supply of ethical ideas, a basis for non secular regulation, a information for non secular development, and the complexities of its interpretation and applicationdemonstrate the profound influence of believing in an infallible phrase of God. This perception shapes particular person lives, communal constructions, and interpretations of the world, highlighting the significance of vital engagement with the idea of scriptural authority and its implications.
4. Unchanging Message
The idea of an unchanging message is central to the assumption in an infallible phrase of God. This immutability underscores the perceived everlasting relevance and enduring fact of the divine message, no matter societal shifts or evolving interpretations. Exploring this idea requires analyzing its varied sides and implications.
-
Preservation of Core Beliefs
An unchanging message offers a steady basis for core non secular beliefs and doctrines. These beliefs, thought-about divinely revealed and subsequently timeless, anchor religion and supply a way of continuity throughout generations. For instance, doctrines regarding the nature of God or the idea of salvation stay constant all through the historical past of a specific religion. This preservation of core beliefs contributes to the enduring id and stability of non secular communities.
-
Transcending Cultural and Temporal Contexts
The unchanging nature of the message permits it to transcend particular cultural and temporal contexts. Whereas interpretations and functions might adapt to completely different circumstances, the underlying message is taken into account universally relevant and eternally related. The teachings of Buddha, for example, have unfold throughout various cultures and proceed to resonate with people centuries later. This transcendence reinforces the perceived universality of the divine message.
-
Supply of Fixed Steerage
An unchanging message serves as a relentless supply of steerage for believers navigating life’s complexities. This steerage, rooted in timeless ideas and divine knowledge, presents solace, course, and a way of objective. The knowledge literature within the Bible, comparable to Proverbs or Ecclesiastes, offers enduring insights into human nature and the pursuit of a significant life. This fixed steerage offers a framework for navigating moral dilemmas and discovering that means in a altering world.
-
Challenges of Interpretation and Adaptation
Whereas the message itself is taken into account unchanging, the interpretation and utility of that message inevitably face challenges throughout completely different eras and cultures. Reconciling historic texts with up to date values and societal modifications requires cautious consideration and may result in various interpretations inside a single religion custom. Debates surrounding gender roles or social justice points inside non secular communities exemplify these challenges. Navigating these challenges requires ongoing dialogue and interpretation to make sure the continued relevance of the unchanging message.
These sides of an unchanging messagethe preservation of core beliefs, transcendence of contexts, provision of fixed steerage, and the inherent challenges of interpretationdemonstrate its significance throughout the framework of an infallible phrase of God. The perceived immutability of the divine message offers each stability and challenges for non secular communities, shaping their beliefs, practices, and engagement with the world throughout generations.
5. Foundation for Religion
The idea of an infallible phrase of God serves as a foundational foundation for religion inside many non secular traditions. This basis offers a bedrock of certainty and authority, shaping beliefs, practices, and the general understanding of the divine. Analyzing the connection between religion and an infallible phrase requires exploring the assorted sides of this relationship.
-
Epistemological Basis
An infallible phrase offers a safe epistemological basis for non secular perception. It presents a supply of information deemed divinely revealed and subsequently unquestionable. This certainty contrasts with religion based mostly solely on private expertise or philosophical reasoning. For instance, accepting the Quran because the literal phrase of God offers Muslims with a agency foundation for his or her beliefs about God, prophecy, and the afterlife. This epistemological grounding shapes the believer’s understanding of fact and the character of actuality.
-
Supply of Doctrinal Authority
Non secular doctrines usually derive their authority from scriptures thought-about infallible. These doctrines, starting from theological ideas to ethical ideas, are grounded within the perception that they symbolize divinely revealed truths. The Christian doctrine of the Trinity, for instance, relies on interpretations of biblical texts. Acceptance of scriptural inerrancy lends these doctrines unquestionable authority and shapes the theological framework of the religion.
-
Framework for Non secular Expertise
An infallible phrase offers a framework for deciphering non secular experiences. Private encounters with the divine, non secular insights, or miraculous occasions are understood and interpreted by the lens of scripture. The experiences of Christian mystics, for example, are sometimes interpreted throughout the framework of biblical narratives and theological ideas. This framework offers context and that means to particular person non secular experiences.
-
Object of Devotion and Research
Scriptures thought-about infallible usually change into objects of devotion and intense research. Believers interact with the textual content by prayer, meditation, memorization, and scholarly evaluation. The Torah in Judaism, for instance, is studied meticulously and revered as a sacred object. This engagement fosters a deeper understanding of the divine message and strengthens the believer’s connection to the religion.
These facetsthe epistemological basis, the supply of doctrinal authority, the framework for non secular expertise, and the article of devotion and studydemonstrate the profound influence of an infallible phrase of God on the formation and sustenance of non secular religion. This connection between religion and an infallible textual content shapes particular person beliefs, communal practices, and the general understanding of the divine, highlighting its significance inside non secular traditions.
6. Ethical Compass
The idea of an infallible phrase of God usually capabilities as an ethical compass, offering believers with a framework for moral decision-making and guiding ideas for navigating the complexities of life. This divinely ordained ethical code shapes particular person conduct, communal values, and societal norms inside non secular traditions. Analyzing the connection between an infallible phrase and ethical steerage requires exploring its varied sides.
-
Supply of Moral Rules
Scriptures thought-about infallible ceaselessly function the final word supply of moral ideas. These ideas, believed to be divinely ordained, provide clear tips for conduct and inform ethical judgments. The Golden Rule, current in varied kinds throughout various non secular traditions, exemplifies a common moral precept derived from scripture. Adherence to those ideas influences private conduct, interpersonal relationships, and societal values.
-
Framework for Ethical Reasoning
An infallible phrase offers a framework for ethical reasoning, providing a foundation for evaluating actions, intentions, and penalties. This framework helps believers navigate moral dilemmas and make knowledgeable selections aligned with their non secular beliefs. The idea of simply struggle idea in Christianity, for instance, attracts upon biblical texts and theological interpretations to determine standards for morally justifiable warfare. This framework shapes views on advanced moral points and influences decision-making processes.
-
Shaping Communal Values
Perception in an infallible phrase contributes considerably to shaping communal values and societal norms inside non secular communities. Shared adherence to a divinely ordained ethical code fosters a way of unity and offers a foundation for social cohesion. The emphasis on charity and compassion in Islam, derived from the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, influences philanthropic actions and social welfare packages inside Muslim communities. This shared ethical framework strengthens communal bonds and shapes societal constructions.
-
Challenges and Interpretations
Whereas an infallible phrase presents a seemingly clear ethical compass, the interpretation and utility of its ideas might be advanced and contested. Differing interpretations of scriptural passages can result in various moral stances inside a single non secular custom. Debates surrounding points like abortion or capital punishment inside Christianity reveal the challenges of making use of historic texts to up to date moral dilemmas. These challenges spotlight the continuing want for interpretation, dialogue, and moral reflection inside non secular communities.
These facetsthe supply of moral ideas, the framework for ethical reasoning, the shaping of communal values, and the inherent challenges of interpretationdemonstrate the profound influence of an infallible phrase of God on ethical steerage inside non secular traditions. This connection between scripture and morality shapes particular person conduct, societal norms, and the continuing discourse surrounding moral decision-making inside religion communities.
7. Supply of Consolation
The idea of an infallible phrase of God usually offers solace and reassurance within the face of life’s uncertainties and challenges. This supply of consolation stems from the perceived divine origin, unchanging nature, and inherent knowledge of the scriptures. Exploring this connection requires analyzing the assorted methods wherein an infallible phrase presents solace and power.
-
Assurance in Instances of Adversity
In occasions of hardship, loss, or uncertainty, an infallible phrase can provide solace and a way of stability. The unchanging nature of the divine message offers reassurance {that a} greater energy is in management and that that means might be discovered even in troublesome circumstances. For instance, people going through sickness or grief may discover consolation in scriptural guarantees of therapeutic, afterlife, or divine justice. This assurance can present power and resilience within the face of adversity.
-
Steerage and Hope for the Future
An infallible phrase can provide steerage and hope for the longer term, illuminating a path ahead even when the way in which appears unclear. The perceived knowledge contained throughout the scriptures offers course and objective, instilling hope and galvanizing believers to persevere by challenges. As an illustration, people scuffling with troublesome selections may search steerage in scriptural teachings or prophetic pronouncements. This steerage can illuminate potential paths and provide hope for a brighter future.
-
Sense of Belonging and Neighborhood
Shared perception in an infallible phrase fosters a way of belonging and group amongst believers. This shared religion creates a bond of mutual understanding and help, providing consolation and power within the face of shared challenges or societal pressures. Participation in non secular rituals, communal research, or acts of charity can strengthen these bonds and supply a way of belonging. This sense of group presents help and encouragement, fostering resilience and offering consolation in figuring out one isn’t alone.
-
Non secular Connection and Inside Peace
Participating with an infallible phrase by prayer, meditation, or research can foster a deeper non secular connection and promote interior peace. The perceived divine presence throughout the textual content presents solace, tranquility, and a way of connection to one thing larger than oneself. Practices like reciting prayers or considering sacred texts can promote mindfulness and non secular reflection, resulting in a way of calm and interior peace. This connection to the divine offers consolation and a way of objective, fostering non secular development and resilience.
These facetsassurance in adversity, steerage and hope, a way of belonging, and non secular connectiondemonstrate the profound capability of an infallible phrase of God to supply consolation and power. This connection between scripture and solace highlights its significance as a supply of help and resilience within the face of life’s inevitable challenges, shaping particular person experiences and fostering a way of connection to the divine.
8. Non secular Basis
The idea of an infallible phrase of God serves as a cornerstone for constructing a non secular basis. This basis offers construction, that means, and course for navigating the complexities of life and fostering a deeper reference to the divine. Exploring this connection requires analyzing the assorted methods an infallible phrase shapes and helps non secular growth.
-
Framework for Understanding the Divine
An infallible phrase offers a framework for understanding the character of the divine, its attributes, and its relationship with humanity. This framework shapes theological beliefs, informs non secular practices, and offers a foundation for deciphering non secular experiences. For instance, the idea of God as all-powerful and omniscient, as introduced within the Bible, shapes Christian understanding of prayer, divine intervention, and the issue of evil. This framework offers a lens by which believers interpret the world and their place inside it.
-
Path to Non secular Progress and Transformation
An infallible phrase usually outlines a path in direction of non secular development and transformation. This path might contain particular practices, ethical tips, or levels of non secular growth. The Eightfold Path in Buddhism, for instance, offers a framework for moral conduct, psychological self-discipline, and knowledge, resulting in enlightenment. Adherence to this path, as outlined in Buddhist scriptures, facilitates non secular progress and private transformation.
-
Supply of That means and Objective
An infallible phrase can imbue life with that means and objective, providing solutions to elementary questions on existence, struggling, and the afterlife. This sense of objective offers motivation, course, and a framework for navigating life’s challenges. The Hindu idea of dharma, as outlined in scriptures just like the Bhagavad Gita, offers a framework for fulfilling one’s objective in life. This understanding of dharma offers that means and course, guiding people in direction of a satisfying and righteous life.
-
Cultivating a Relationship with the Divine
Participating with an infallible phrase by prayer, meditation, or research can domesticate a deeper relationship with the divine. This connection fosters a way of closeness, reverence, and reliance on a better energy. The follow of day by day prayer in Islam, based mostly on the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, strengthens the believer’s reference to Allah. This ongoing engagement fosters a deeper relationship with the divine, offering steerage, consolation, and a way of belonging.
These facetsthe framework for understanding the divine, the trail to non secular development, the supply of that means and objective, and the cultivation of a relationship with the divinedemonstrate the profound affect of an infallible phrase of God in establishing a non secular basis. This basis offers stability, steerage, and a way of connection to one thing larger than oneself, shaping particular person beliefs, practices, and the general understanding of the non secular journey.
Regularly Requested Questions
The idea of divinely impressed, inerrant scripture raises essential questions throughout varied religion traditions. This part addresses some frequent inquiries and potential misconceptions.
Query 1: Does inerrancy suggest a literal interpretation of all scriptural passages?
Not essentially. Whereas some traditions adhere to strict literalism, others acknowledge various literary genres inside their scriptures, using completely different interpretive approaches accordingly. Poetry, parables, and historic accounts might require distinct hermeneutical lenses. Understanding the literary context is essential for deciphering that means.
Query 2: How do completely different faiths reconcile obvious contradictions inside their scriptures?
Varied approaches exist for addressing perceived contradictions. Some traditions attribute these to errors in translation or transmission, whereas others view them as reflecting completely different views or ranges of understanding. Some students additionally counsel that obvious contradictions could also be intentional, prompting deeper reflection and interpretation.
Query 3: How does the idea of an infallible phrase work together with scientific discoveries that appear to problem scriptural accounts?
The connection between religion and science is advanced. Some reconcile scientific findings with scriptural interpretations by metaphorical readings or by specializing in the theological message relatively than the scientific particulars. Others prioritize scientific proof, resulting in reinterpretations of scriptural passages. This stays an space of ongoing dialogue and debate.
Query 4: If scripture is infallible, why are there so many various interpretations and denominations inside a single religion?
Numerous interpretations can come up from varied elements, together with cultural context, historic circumstances, and differing hermeneutical approaches. Even inside a shared perception in inerrancy, variations in understanding and utility are frequent, resulting in the event of distinct theological views and denominational distinctions.
Query 5: How does one decide which interpretation of an infallible phrase is the proper one?
Figuring out the “appropriate” interpretation is a posh challenge. Completely different traditions depend on varied authorities, comparable to established doctrines, theological students, or communal consensus. Finally, the method of interpretation includes cautious research, vital pondering, and engagement with the broader religion group.
Query 6: What are the potential challenges or criticisms of the idea of scriptural inerrancy?
Criticisms of inerrancy usually heart on points comparable to historic inconsistencies, scientific discrepancies, or the potential for excluding marginalized teams by selective interpretations. These challenges necessitate vital engagement with the idea of inerrancy and its implications for up to date society.
Participating with these questions fosters a deeper understanding of the complexities and nuances surrounding the idea of an infallible phrase of God. Continued exploration and considerate reflection are essential for navigating the intersection of religion, motive, and interpretation.
Additional exploration will delve into the precise methods varied religion traditions tackle these questions and navigate the challenges related to the idea of scriptural inerrancy.
Steerage from Divinely Impressed Texts
Participating with scriptures believed to be divinely impressed can provide profound insights and steerage for navigating life’s complexities. The next strategies present a framework for significant engagement with such texts.
Tip 1: Strategy with reverence and humility. Recognizing the sacred nature of the textual content fosters a mindset of respect and openness to its message. This strategy encourages considerate reflection and a deeper understanding of its significance.
Tip 2: Search understanding by research and reflection. Constant engagement with the textual content by research, contemplation, and dialogue deepens comprehension and permits for larger appreciation of its nuances. Consulting commentaries and scholarly interpretations can present priceless insights.
Tip 3: Take into account the historic and cultural context. Understanding the historic and cultural circumstances surrounding the textual content’s origin illuminates its that means and objective. Recognizing the historic context helps keep away from misinterpretations and anachronistic functions.
Tip 4: Apply ideas to up to date life. The knowledge contained inside divinely impressed texts can provide steerage for navigating up to date challenges. Making use of these ideas to fashionable moral dilemmas and life selections can promote ethical development and non secular growth.
Tip 5: Interact with a group of believers. Sharing insights and interpretations with others who revere the textual content fosters a deeper understanding and offers mutual help. Communal engagement enriches the person’s expertise and strengthens the bonds of religion.
Tip 6: Embrace the transformative potential. Permitting the message of the textual content to form one’s worldview, values, and actions can result in profound private transformation. Embracing its teachings can foster non secular development, moral growth, and a deeper connection to the divine.
Tip 7: Acknowledge the continuing journey of interpretation. Understanding that interpretation is an ongoing course of encourages humility and openness to new insights. Recognizing the evolving nature of interpretation permits for development and deeper understanding over time.
Tip 8: Prioritize private utility and lived expertise. Integrating the teachings of the textual content into day by day life and permitting them to form one’s actions is essential for significant engagement. Prioritizing lived expertise permits the knowledge of the textual content to change into a guiding drive in a single’s life.
By partaking with divinely impressed texts by these approaches, people can domesticate a deeper understanding of their religion, navigate life’s complexities with larger knowledge, and foster a stronger connection to the divine. These practices provide a path in direction of non secular development, moral growth, and a extra significant life.
The following tips provide a pathway to a deeper understanding of divinely impressed texts and their potential to complement one’s life. The concluding part will provide ultimate reflections on the importance of partaking with these texts and their enduring influence on people and communities.
Conclusion
Exploration of the idea of divinely impressed, inerrant scripture reveals its profound influence on religion, morality, and non secular growth. Examination of its purported divine origin, the declare of absolute fact, its operate as an authoritative information, and the assumption in its unchanging message illuminates its central position in shaping non secular perception and follow. Additional evaluation reveals its significance as a foundation for religion, an ethical compass, a supply of consolation, and the cornerstone of a non secular basis. Numerous interpretations and ongoing dialogues surrounding scriptural inerrancy spotlight the complexities of partaking with such texts.
Continued engagement with divinely impressed scriptures requires cautious research, considerate reflection, and a willingness to grapple with difficult questions. Understanding the historic and cultural contexts, partaking with various interpretations, and making use of timeless knowledge to up to date challenges stay essential for navigating the complexities of religion and the continuing seek for that means and objective. The enduring affect of divinely impressed texts underscores their profound influence on people, communities, and the continuing human quest for non secular understanding.
