Responding as “none” or “unaffiliated” on religious surveys, people increasingly identify as humanists, atheists, agnostics, or simply spiritual. If current trends continue, by 2070 Christianity may no longer be the dominant expression of American religion.
In life, we often have hope, optimism, and faith. While these three are closely linked, each has its own shade of meaning and influence.
- By Lisa Bitel
On March 17, people around the world celebrate St. Patrick’s Day by parading in green hats, sporting images of shamrocks and leprechauns.
In 1997, my students and I traveled to Croagh Patrick, a mountain in County Mayo, as part of a study abroad program course on Irish literature I was teaching for the University of Dayton.
- By Mark Ireland
Before his near-death experience in 2008, Dr. Eben Alexander—who taught and performed neurosurgery at the Harvard Medical School—concurred with most of his fellow scientists by assuming that the brain produces consciousness. But after a close brush with death following a week-long coma...
- By John A. Rush
It is by looking at our ancient past that we can identify our deep connections to cats and our eventual attachment of spiritual characteristics to them.
It’s 2024 and the Year of the Dragon in the Chinese zodiac ? associated with good fortune, wisdom and success
Many may take to the newest diet plan or sign up for a health club membership, but it is worth taking some time to consider what actually constitutes a healthy, happy body.
The Book of Kells is a late-eighth century illustrated copy of the four gospels of the New Testament, traditionally associated with the affiliated monasteries of Iona in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland and Kells in County Meath, Ireland.
The prevailing belief in free will, deeply embedded in our psyche, convinces us that we are the architects of our decisions and, consequently, bearers of the outcomes.
We’re all familiar with the jolly, white-haired and bearded overweight man who sneaks down chimneys on Christmas Eve delivering presents to children. But where did this come from?
Yule will be celebrated by Wiccans and many other Pagans in the Northern Hemisphere on Dec. 21, the day of the winter solstice.
Day of the Dead is taking on Halloween traditions, but the sacred holiday is far more than a ‘Mexican Halloween’
Are ghosts real? A social psychologist examines the evidence
From India and Taiwan to Tibet, the living assist the dead in their passage
- By Jonas Atlas
When we speak of religions today, they are often described like products in a supermarket: packages of beliefs, rules of conduct, symbols, and rituals, which are offered by specific brands.
Many Hindus around the world will celebrate Krishna Janmashtami, the birthday of the Hindu god Krishna, on Sept. 6.
Psychedelics are all the rage. Well-known figures like quarterback Aaron Rodgers, singer Miley Cyrus and boxer Mike Tyson testify to their transformative impact.
The tree of life appears in the Book of Genesis, at the very beginning of the Hebrew Bible – what many Christians call the Old Testament.
Jesus has been portrayed in many different ways: from a prophet who alerts his audience to the world’s imminent end to a philosopher who reflects on the nature of life. But no one has called Jesus an internet guru – that is, until now.
Most Pagans view the Earth as the Goddess, with a body that humans must care for, and from which they gain emotional, spiritual and physical sustenance.
The profound impact of SGI Nichiren Buddhism on the life and career of Tina Turner, the "Queen of Rock 'N' Roll," and how her spiritual practice empowered her throughout her journey.
- By Megan Bryson
Explore the diverse celebrations of the Buddha's birthday across Asia, from bathing statues to lantern parades. Discover the rich cultural traditions and regional variations.