The podcast discusses how religion is an almost universal instinct of humankind, an evolved instinct of human beings, and how it's evident through history that religion is a commitment to action with insight to follow through the actions that are practised, crafted and instinctual in the way our brains function.
Exploring the origins of the devil as a character in various religions and mythologies, and how those influences shaped the devil into the figure we know today.
The speakers discuss a religion with only five tenets and express their thoughts on a rapper who they believe has a simplistic style.
The speaker reminisces about his desire to fight and his religious curiosity.
The speaker shares their personal experience with difficulties such as dealing with a sick parent and racism and how submitting to God can actually be an experience of liberation and trust.
A group is being accused of making members sign lifetime vows of obedience and giving collateral to join. One young woman was excitedly told by her master that she had to give collateral to join.
The future of religion involves an open source, decentralized system where people can fork it and store value in new assets, similar to how cryptocurrency is used today. The leaders will also dress casually, like Supreme streetwear style pastors.
This episode features a conversation about why it's important to approach religion with inclusivity in order for everyone to be accepted. It also discusses the challenges that religion faces with conflict around the world and how policy-making can empower those caught in conflict in different countries.
This essay recounts the history of the Unification Church's (aka the Moonies) business ventures, including the founding of the American Tuna fishing company, and reflects on the author's personal experience with the church's influence in his family's life.
The fragmentation of religion has caused some to turn to Berkshire Hathaway with a religious-like fervor and trust in Warren Buffet and Charlie Munger, as they speak about their experiences with the company at an annual meeting.
The notion that moral virtue comes from religion is a fallacy propagated by individuals who subscribe to the idea that people cannot find worth in themselves aside from belief in a higher power. The belief that one's life must be grounded in metaphysical principles promotes the idea of needing to fill a gap in one's life when belief in a higher power is abandoned.
A discussion about the mental gymnastics involved in using God as a justification for extreme actions, including murder and child marriage, as well as claims of divine revelation about game show appearances.
Nicole shares her experience working briefly at the temple and how things started to change after the Phoenix New Times article came out. She was not getting the training she had signed up for so decided to leave before she heard about the raid.
The human concept of an all-powerful, omnipotent being is limited by our own physical form and perspective, making it impossible for us to truly comprehend what it means to be God-like.
The guest speaker shares his thoughts on the importance of maintaining objectivity in spiritual and religious practices and how formalized religion can act as a middleman in connecting with a higher power.
The speaker recounts their experience doing stand-up and their preference for Jewish over Catholic theology due to the emphasis on questioning.
The reason why the fallen angels rejected God is implicit in their temptation to Adam and Eve in Genesis chapter 3. This decision was a free choice made by these created spirits.
The podcast discusses the financial perks of religious institutions and how mega churches sell merchandise and programs, offering a millionaire mindset, instead of focusing on charitable services. The speaker reflects on four years of research on religious financial privileges in their thesis.
Native peoples took on some religious beliefs of the Christian settlers. A woman who lost her partner to death due to frigid weather was afraid of becoming a windigo if she ate his flesh, and she left him in her shelter due to her beliefs.
A man recalls a conversation with Father Williams, who made fun of his height and commented on his friend's mother in a derogatory manner, while also referencing inappropriate comments made by Father Dub towards his friend.
The podcast discusses former televangelist Jim Baker's attempt at redemption and the challenges he faces in winning over a new, forgiving community.
A woman shares her custody battle experience and how her husband didn't want their sons to attend any religious services, which led to a court allowing supervised visitation for a certain timeframe while she was at church.
Amidst a wave of consumerism in the 1980s, a religious awakening swept across Japan leading to the formation of numerous new religions, catering to people eager to embrace spiritual practices. One of the leaders, Shoko Asahara, initially drew inspiration from Chinese astrology and Taoism before delving into yoga, meditation and other secret traditions.
The speaker reflects on their experience as a church leader, likening it to handing out pizza, singing, and looking after people. They also express uncertainty about whether they will be admitted into heaven.
Despite financial challenges and personal obstacles, Jim, a pastor in a low-income community, puts his heart and soul into his church with the help of his dedicated partner.