We are among the first peoples in human history who do not broadly inherit religious identity as a given, a matter of kin and tribe, like hair color and hometown. But the very fluidity of this-the possibility of choice that arises, the ability to craft and discern one's own spiritual bearings-is not leading to the decline of spiritual life but its revival.
In her book "Becoming Wise," Krista Tippett highlights a significant shift in how individuals engage with spirituality. Unlike previous generations, many people today do not automatically adopt a religious identity based on family or cultural background. Instead, they have the freedom to explore and choose their own spiritual paths, reflecting a departure from traditional inheritance-based identities.
This newfound flexibility does not signify a decline in spiritual practices; rather, it fosters a revival of spiritual life. The opportunity for personal choice and self-discovery empowers individuals to craft their own beliefs, leading to a deeper and more personalized understanding of spirituality in contemporary society.
