So much of interfaith dialogue and scholarly study is done using western paradigms. The challenge is that often, when eastern religions are put into the mix, things just don’t translate easily. As someone who lectures often on Hindu Dharma, I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve been challenged by a question that I just couldn’t answer well because it was asked by someone who assumed that all traditions followed a similar model  to the Abrahamic ones. Case in... Read more

Most religions take a dim view of those who are not able to conceive of a reality beyond what they can see, hear, taste or touch. That which might be labeled “metaphysical” or “supernatural” has no place in their lives. While there has been a slight uptick in acceptance by the general public, many Americans would not vote for an atheist to hold political office.  Often, the reason stated is that it is believed that such a person would have... Read more

Over the years I’ve mentored a good number of single people who have embraced the dharma as adults. This usually means leaving the tradition of their birth, family and social circles. For those who come to us already married, they either decide to make the move together, or come singly, having reached an understanding with a spouse that this is a journey which needs to be taken. Obviously, an arrangement like that requires patience and balance from both parties.  But... Read more

Of all the things that separate the members of different religions, perhaps the most challenging is the notion that others believe in a “different” God. And by different I mean false. Jews, Christians and Muslims are very adamant about monotheism. However, many theologians agree that in ancient times, Jews did believe in the existence of other deities. The difference was that theirs was the best, and with whom they had a covenant. CHRISTIANS & JEWS The vast majority of Christians... Read more