Spirituality & Religion

While religion is usually associated with a spiritual philosophy or pursuit, 
it is simply politicized spirituality. In fact, in most religions, their 
dogma and beliefs have created a situation where the 
religion is the antithesis, or direct opposite, 
of an authentic spiritual path.

Spirituality, by definition, is beyond the physical and beyond the mind. 
By an adherence to the rigid religious dogma we negate the 
possibility to move into a true universal or cosmic level. 
Instead, religion often introduces fear and conflict. 

The results of religion can easily be seen at every turn in life. 
Religious beliefs have, and are, creating conflict, war, and acts of 
brutality, such as in the Middle East, the Balkans, and northern Ireland. 
Amazingly, in Ireland the two warring factions both claim 
belief in Christianity, whose icon, Jesus, proclaimed love!

Spirituality is of the heart, soul, and joy, 
whereas religion is deadly serious, and of the mind and ego. 
Spirituality is light, whereas religion is mostly dark and heavy. 
Religion seeks to covert or proselytize. Spirituality seeks freedom.

Tantra is surely not about any religion, 
and authentic Tantra avoids strict dogma…

Blessings & Love,
Swami Nostradamus Virato

Written in St. Petersburg, Russia, August 16, 2001, 5 in the morning

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