I have a friend who, unlike many people, follows a different religious path. He believes in God but does not adhere to any particular religion. He rejects organized religion but holds a belief in a higher power. When I asked him how he identifies this deity, he explained that his concept of God is drawn from various religions, or perhaps independent of any religious doctrine altogether. He suggested that based on his general moral principles, he visualizes and communicates with this divine entity in his mind. He emphasizes the importance of belief in God over adherence to specific religious doctrines, viewing religions as pathways to understand and serve God rather than ends in themselves.
Reflecting on my friend’s perspective, I recalled a classmate from my master’s program who advocated for seeking help from transcendental sources during times of prayer or emotional distress. This classmate professed belief in multiple gods from various religions, seeing them as manifestations of the same universal deity interpreted differently across cultures and times. To him, all religions ultimately point to a singular powerful entity.
Returning to my friend who believes in God without subscribing to any organized religion, I questioned him further about how he interprets and follows divine directives. He asserted that he perceives all virtuous behaviors, regardless of their source or origin, as aligning with the will of God. Our conversations often take on a Socratic nature, probing into the depths of his beliefs and convictions. Despite our discussions, he remains steadfast in his personal faith journey.
While I admire my friend’s introspective approach to spirituality, I hope he avoids formalizing his beliefs into a new religion or imposing his convictions on others. Throughout history, there have been individuals and groups, like Sufis and mystics, who seek a direct, personal connection with the divine beyond the confines of organized religion. While some may view such pursuits skeptically, my friend and those like him emphasize the significance of knowing and communing with God above all else.
