In its most straightforward definition, a paradigm is a pattern or example. I wish to speak of both of these connotations as they relate to Interfaith Spirituality: "A New Paradigm for Our Times."
It is helpful to view a paradigm in its broadest sense, as well as in its most detailed manifestations. As an example, consider the natural world. What are the patterns of the universe? There are laws that govern the most infinitesimal particles (these are basic to quantum physics), as well as laws of relativity (laws that govern the universe at large.)
Since Einstein, scientists have been trying to solve what they call the unifying theory, or The Theory of Everything, which would unite the laws of relativity and quantum mechanics. String Theory provided such an answer, yet five distinct string theories were eventually discovered. How could five unifying theories—five distinctly different models—speak the one truth of how the universe works? For some time, scientists thought that four of the theories must be wrong.
Then along came Edward Witten, who recognized that indeed there is one unifying theory—which he dubbed “M” Theory—and that all five string theories were correct. By viewing the problem from a broader perspective, he could see that the five theories are connected to one another as if they are each a special case of the one fundamental “M” theory.
It is as if someone were to position mirrors at different angles toward one Source. The reflections appear differently in relation to, and appeal to different aspects of, the eleven space-time dimensions of the universe. While each of the five aspects is a unique and integral component, all are related to each other by way of the one fundamental theory.
It is a beautiful opportunity, as well as our responsibility as advocates of peace, to continue the research of our religious and spiritual ancestors in uncovering the Divine unifying theory. I look to the wisdom of the planet’s five major faith traditions to explore the interrelationships among them:
- From Christianity: "(God) hath made of one blood all nations of men." (Acts 17: 26)
- From the Qur’an of Islam: “Do you not know, O people, that I have made you into tribes and nations that you may know each other.” (Al-Hujurat 49: 13)
- From Hinduism’s ancient scripture: "Truth is one; the wise call it by various names.” (Rig Veda 1.164.46c)
- From Judaism, a question: “Hath not one God created us?” (Mal 2:10)
- And from Buddhism: “There has never been a single doctrine by which one could enter the true essence of things.” (Nagarjuna)
The M theory unified the characteristics of the infinite with those of the infinitesimally small. Similarly, how can an Interfaith paradigm link what is happening on the planet with what is present inside each individual?
As we seek to promote common ground so that all traditions may be honored, we must first rectify these relationships internally. We must build the bridge and heal the gaps within our own internal religious or spiritual root system. To be on a spiritual path is to engage in inner work and personal development. As is said in the Native American Sioux tradition, “There can never be peace between nations until it is first known that true peace is within the souls of men.”
To imagine all of your ancestors in a room as an Interfaith council is to acknowledge the truth of your lineage. What could such an inner Interfaith council teach about the relationship of the planet’s five major faith traditions? Wayne Teasdale helps illumine this point in his book, The Mystic Heart: Discovering a Universal Spirituality in the World's Religions:
“Hinduism has directly influenced the rise of Buddhism. Jainism has influenced both Buddhism and Hinduism. Christianity would hardly be possible without Judaism, and Islam is inconceivable without these predecessors. Sikhism developed as a reaction to Islamic persecution, but was shaped by both Hindu and Muslim forms. Confucianism and Taoism mutually influenced each other, and Taoism had a deep impact on Ch’an Buddhism, which became Zen in Japan.”
These relationships exist in us on a cellular and soul level.
When my grandparents came to America from what was then Austria-Hungary in the early 20th century, the priority was assimilation—learning English and American culture and letting go of, even denying, one’s heritage and history. When my siblings and I were growing up, we were not taught to speak Slovak. My generation now yearns to reclaim the customs, language, and essence of our native cultures. When we do, it makes sense in our bodies—we feel it in our blood.
In a similar way, there is a reclaiming of what can be felt in our spiritual bodies: the interconnectedness of all dimensions of spiritual expression. Through mystical experience, ancestral connection, or just plain curiosity, more and more people are embracing numerous dimensions simultaneously. They may be practicing Christian faith and Buddhist meditation practice, or integrating Yogic and Taoist studies. Whether a result of an evolution in consciousness or simply a mirroring of our hybrid ethnicities, composite spirituality is becoming the norm.
So, whether a part of our direct spiritual lineage or not, the new paradigm reflects a wave of individuals tapping into the truths of all eleven dimensions of our cosmic fabric, every facet having its significant and essential contribution. Confucius said: “In the world, there are many different roads, but the destination is the same.”
The “M” in “M” Theory is sometimes said to stand for Mystery, or Magic. So, in closing:
May the magic and mystery of the Cosmos bless us with eternal truth and unconditional love, so that we may experience Divine bliss—no matter what dimensions we call our spiritual home, for it is all the same.