SACRED NATURALISM
SACRED
Jonathan Haidt tells us that the perception of the sacred is a human universal. He writes “Regardless of their differences, all religions have places (temples, shrines, holy trees), times (holy days, sunrise, solstices), and activities (prayer, special dancing) that allow for contact or communication with something otherworldly and pure.” As well, anything we deem sacred is defined as that which is entitled to veneration and respect. As the philosopher Peter Rollins writes: “One can see [the sacred] as the name we give to the affirmation of a depth dimension that can be found in all things…. As we show loving care and concern for existence, and as we participate fully in life, we proclaim the sacred even if we are not aware of it.”
NATURALISM
‘Naturalism’ is a philosophical term that “asserts that natural laws are the rules that govern the structure and behavior of the natural universe, that the changing universe at every stage is a product of these laws.” We also are keenly aware that ‘naturalism’ and ‘naturalist’ often bring to mind ‘nature’ – an association that we are glad for.
SACRED NATURALISM
In its literal sense, then, Sacred Naturalism is a special respect and care for the scientific approach to understanding the natural world, and to the natural world generally. But Sacred Naturalism is much more than this. Sacred Naturalism honors and serves that part of human nature that seeks transcendence and longs for sacred community and ritual. It answers the real human need to feel a part of something greater than the self and the longing some feel for a connection (oneness) with community/nature/the cosmos. Reverence and awe of the natural world is enough for sacred naturalists who do not believe in a traditional, anthropomorphic god, but nonetheless view science and mystery as both valuable and compatible.
Jonathan Haidt tells us that the perception of the sacred is a human universal. He writes “Regardless of their differences, all religions have places (temples, shrines, holy trees), times (holy days, sunrise, solstices), and activities (prayer, special dancing) that allow for contact or communication with something otherworldly and pure.” As well, anything we deem sacred is defined as that which is entitled to veneration and respect. As the philosopher Peter Rollins writes: “One can see [the sacred] as the name we give to the affirmation of a depth dimension that can be found in all things…. As we show loving care and concern for existence, and as we participate fully in life, we proclaim the sacred even if we are not aware of it.”
NATURALISM
‘Naturalism’ is a philosophical term that “asserts that natural laws are the rules that govern the structure and behavior of the natural universe, that the changing universe at every stage is a product of these laws.” We also are keenly aware that ‘naturalism’ and ‘naturalist’ often bring to mind ‘nature’ – an association that we are glad for.
SACRED NATURALISM
In its literal sense, then, Sacred Naturalism is a special respect and care for the scientific approach to understanding the natural world, and to the natural world generally. But Sacred Naturalism is much more than this. Sacred Naturalism honors and serves that part of human nature that seeks transcendence and longs for sacred community and ritual. It answers the real human need to feel a part of something greater than the self and the longing some feel for a connection (oneness) with community/nature/the cosmos. Reverence and awe of the natural world is enough for sacred naturalists who do not believe in a traditional, anthropomorphic god, but nonetheless view science and mystery as both valuable and compatible.
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SACRED ECOLOGY
Contemplative practices, rituals, ceremonies, and other activities in the world that bring people into a closer relationship with the natural environment and other beings engenders deep caring. Indeed, many sacred naturalists share a desire to protect and nurture ecological wisdom, the rights of nature, a sustainable future, as well as human flourishing and well-being. |
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sacredspaces
are places for sacred naturalists to gather with others for ritual meetings; music and/or dance; science-based wisdom sharing, poetry, spiritual teachings; prosocial work that extends beyond the community; art. Sacredspaces naturally foster empathy, compassion, a feeling of belonging, and virtuous actions. |