I’ve been thinking lately about secular religion (again) and our general metaphysical turn.
Yes, post plague and pandemic, in the apocalyptic age of uncertainly, where the gods of war, famine and flood run amok and technology we do not understand begins to look a lot like magick, it’s not surprising there is a dramatic shift back towards believing in that which cannot be proven and seeking solace in superstition. (“God” , small g, has not been more popular since the 1980’s, see below). Yes, everything from crystals and manifesting and “simulation theories is trending up; however all these new beliefs while heavy on ritual, are seemingly devoid of the relationships with the unseen that make religions of any sort rooted and real.
Therapy has replaced confession. Confession, while also, technically, paid communion, at least came with a congregation of fellow sinners to commiserate with. Therapy is lonesome by design.
Simulation theory has replaced heaven and earth. Only without the hope of eternal reunion.
Gaia worship has replaced God. But she promises no love, only state of nature in return for your sacrifice.
Carbon credits have replaced indulgences (with similar real inefficacy at any real atonement). Only they too, promise no ultimate salvation.
Ritual without relationship – that is cosplaying religion – can only paper over the hole, that deep wounded isolation at the heart of the human soul. Loneliness, disconnection is at the root of so much of the suffering we see in the present. We need relations and relationships to maintain the belief against all odds we need to move forward.
Ritual is not enough to fool us forever.
(Yes, this post is cryptic, but more clues on my X…)