Science and Spirituality: Bridging the Divide Between Two Realms
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Chapter 1: The Essence of Love and Light
In a 2017 conversation with Stephen Colbert, actor Jim Parsons, recognized for portraying physicist Sheldon Cooper in The Big Bang Theory, shared insights about his marriage. He expressed, "There's this divine sensation... Finding love feels as close to experiencing God as anything else in life. I recall lying in bed, eyes shut but awake, feeling a profound light. It felt significant, almost eternal... I still sense that now... Sometimes, I close my eyes and think, 'This is so close to God.' I can't find another way to describe it."
"Love," Colbert suggested.
While Sheldon's character in Young Sheldon is an atheist, Parsons himself does not share that belief. It is intriguing to note that Sheldon, a science enthusiast who rejects the idea of God, is raised by a mother who is a devout believer (Mary Cooper, portrayed by Laurie Metcalf and Zoe Perry). The dynamic between Sheldon and Mary illustrates the often contentious relationship between religious individuals and atheists, both of whom can exhibit self-righteousness.
Could there be a more harmonious approach for both the scientific and the spiritual communities?
"Plato is my friend, Aristotle is my friend, but my greatest friend is truth." — Isaac Newton
What is Science?
To genuinely embrace science or faith, we require both elements. With a spirit of curiosity and humility, we can keep our hearts and minds receptive. The term "science" originates from the Latin word scientia, which translates to "knowledge; understanding; expertise," derived from sciens, meaning "intelligent; skilled," and from the verb scire, "to know." The definition of science is "knowledge acquired through systematic study."
Science is not a conclusive endpoint; it represents a continuous quest for understanding. As we uncover more, science evolves—always subject to challenge and growth. Could we define God as that Infinite Knowledge we relentlessly pursue?
Indeed, many prominent scientists have believed in God. Historical figures like Nicolaus Copernicus, Galileo, Isaac Newton, and Albert Einstein—particularly those engaged in quantum mechanics—were among them. The essence of a scientist's role is to be inquisitive—exploring the nature of existence and developing innovative solutions to global challenges. Isn't that the core of true religion as well?
What Constitutes True Religion?
The word "religion" stems from the Latin relegere, meaning "to review (through reading or thought) again." Some trace its roots to religare, "to bind together." Both interpretations reflect our intrinsic desire to know, study, and connect with what is genuine. Thus, religion should not be confined to dogmatic beliefs or rigid codes. Humanity has evolved beyond those constraints.
What remains is our insatiable curiosity—a longing to connect with the universe, perceive the light, and grasp the truth. In 1875, spiritual trailblazer Mary Baker Eddy stated, "Truth is the cornerstone of all religion. It ensures access to the realm of Love." (Science & Health, p. 20) She foresaw a time when understanding the truth of existence would form the basis of authentic religion. (p. 67–68)
In a letter from around 48 CE, James, a leader in the Jerusalem church, defined "true religion" as caring for orphans and widows in their distress and avoiding worldly corruption. (James 1:27) Indeed, we could all benefit from more of that.
What Role Does Church Play?
Is there a need for places of worship? If such institutions are dedicated to "uplifting humanity" and "awakening dormant understanding from material beliefs to spiritual truths," as Eddy wrote, then they serve a valuable purpose. When she established the Christian Science church in 1879 in Boston, she did so hesitantly, suspecting it might not always fulfill this mission.
Eddy envisioned church as "The structure of Truth and Love; whatever is founded upon and emanates from divine Principle." (p. 583) The Apostle Paul, in a letter to early followers of Jesus in Corinth, stated, "You are God's building." (1 Corinthians 3:9)
What Is God?
Eddy proposed seven synonyms for "God, the great I AM": Love, Truth, Life, Spirit, Principle, Soul, and Mind. (p. 587) These spiritual concepts, being infinite, cannot be quantified in the way a conventional scientist might prefer. Yet, we recognize their existence.
By defining God through these synonyms—without attaching specific religious doctrines—we can acknowledge that we have an innate understanding of God: the miracle of Life, Love, and Truth. As Parsons attempted to articulate, we intuitively sense Its boundless power.
We Are Truth Seekers
Are we not all seekers of truth, each unraveling the mysteries of life in our unique ways? Isn't the physicist's aspiration to discover a Grand Unified Theory akin to a believer's quest to improve the world? Perhaps the distinction lies only in our choice of words.
"The most beautiful experience we can have is the mysterious. It is the fundamental emotion that stands at the cradle of true art and true science. Whoever does not know it and can no longer wonder, no longer marvel, is as good as dead, and his eyes are dimmed." — Albert Einstein
Envision the possibilities. Close your eyes. See the light. Then, let that light shine. Your healing presence is essential.
The first video explores the compatibility of science and spirituality, delving into whether these seemingly opposing forces can coexist harmoniously.
Chapter 2: The Science Behind Spirituality
The second video features Rupert Sheldrake discussing how scientific principles can illuminate aspects of spirituality, providing insights into their interconnectedness.