How God Works: The Science Behind Spirituality The End of the World As We Know It
Dec 28, 2025
This discussion features Dina Nayeri, a novelist and essayist from a background steeped in apocalyptic beliefs, and Kim Haines-Eitzen, a scholar of ancient apocalyptic literature. Nayeri reflects on her childhood in an underground Christian community during Iran's revolution, revealing how rapture beliefs impacted her view on urgency and resilience. Haines-Eitzen delves into the origins of apocalyptic thought, emphasizing its transformative potential rather than just destruction. Both guests urge engagement with community and collective hope to navigate uncertain times.
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Raised On Imminent Rescue
- Dina Nayeri recounts growing up Christian in Iran during the revolution and war while her mother served in an underground church.
- Their faith’s emphasis on an imminent rapture offered urgent hope amid constant danger and threat of execution.
Apocalypse Emerges From Crisis
- Kim Haines-Eitzen links Christian apocalypse back to Jewish apocalyptic writings like Daniel formed during political crises.
- Apocalyptic literature often arises as a response to social upheaval and foreign domination.
Rapture Panic In Exile
- Dina describes fleeing Iran after her mother’s arrest and living as refugees before settling in Oklahoma.
- In Oklahoma her rapture fears intensified into panic attacks and nightly checks to see if loved ones had been taken.