Rod Dreher, bestselling author and cultural commentator, dives into his latest work, Living in Wonder. He discusses the idea of re-enchantment in modern life, contrasting it with secular views and the role of spirituality. Dreher explores the rise of psychedelics and the occult, reflecting on the public's search for meaning. He tackles the complex relationship between mental illness and perceived demonic influences through personal narratives. Ultimately, he encourages embracing the divine in everyday experiences, showcasing the transformative power of faith.
Re-enchantment involves reconnecting with the spiritual significance of the material world, enhancing awareness of God's presence in daily life.
The rise of neo-pagan beliefs among young adults reflects a search for deeper meaning, often leading to risky spiritual practices like psychedelics.
Deep dives
Understanding Disenchantment in Modern Society
Disenchantment refers to the modern worldview that dismisses the presence of meaning and spiritual significance in life, originating from a shift away from belief in God. This perspective leads to feelings of malaise and a lack of transcendence, impacting not only secular individuals but also devout Christians. Many believers experience a longing for a palpable sense of God's presence, as illustrated by a story of an evangelical student seeking depth in their faith amid a disenchanted world. The challenge lies in recognizing and reconnecting with the inherent meaning in our existence, moving beyond a simplistic interpretation of God as merely a source of comfort.
The Rise of Neo-Pagan Spirituality
In a society increasingly disengaged from traditional religious practices, there is a noticeable rise in neo-pagan beliefs and spiritual practices among younger generations. Young adults are turning to occult practices and psychedelics as alternatives to find spiritual connection. This trend is exemplified by the experiences shared by individuals who explore the spiritual realms through substances like ayahuasca while searching for deeper meaning. However, the danger lies in the potential for these experiences to lead individuals toward harmful spiritual paths, diverting them from authentic faith.
Re-enchanting the Christian Experience
Re-enchantment involves rediscovering the spiritual significance inherent in the material world and fostering a deeper relationship with the divine. This can be achieved through spiritual disciplines, such as the Jesus Prayer, which encourages focused attention and creates a sense of inner stillness. The practice of attentiveness helps individuals perceive the presence of God in everyday life, enhancing their spiritual awareness and providing a sense of resonance with their surroundings. Engaging with the stories of those who have encountered genuine spiritual experiences can also serve as inspiration to recognize divine moments in one's own life.
Embracing Spiritual Experiences and Miracles
Many individuals encounter miraculous events that serve as reminders of God's activity in the world and the spiritual battle surrounding them. However, it's crucial to assess how one responds to such experiences, as they may require significant changes in belief or lifestyle. Stories of people who have witnessed or undergone miracles highlight the importance of humility and surrender in the face of divine encounters. Recognizing that God’s presence can manifest in various ways, whether through profound healings or everyday moments, invites deeper reflection on how these experiences shape faith and connection to the divine.
Bestselling author Rod Dreher has a knack for putting his finger on what people are going to be talking about next. He's done it again with his new book on re-enchantment, Living in Wonder. He joins us today to talk about embracing what historian Tom Holland calls the "weird stuff" in Christianity.
What does it mean for the world to be enchanted? Isn't enchantment just superstition? What does the trend towards psychedelics and the occult tell us about the public's longings? Are demons real?
Note: There are some quality issues on Dreher's audio feed.