Immateriality And The Path To Non-Dualism

We begin our course by defining what we mean by immaterial. With the writings of St. John and St. Paul as our lens, we consider what it means that God is immaterial, and begin to look at how despite God's immaterial nature, God has somehow made themselves known to us.

To understand God as being immaterial should not lure us into understanding God as not being able to engage with the material. On the contrary, if God is the source of life that animates and brings about all things, then somehow in interacting with the material we are also interacting with God. In this lesson, we consider the difference between pantheism and panENtheism, and discuss how anthropomorphisms, theophanies, and incarnation all help us comprehend this seeming paradox.

In this first of two Lectio Divina contemplation and meditation audios to accompany this course, we take time to contemplate the writings of St. John and St. Paul that were reflected upon in the first two lessons of the course. As we meditate upon them, consider how what John and Paul have written help you understand the nature of God, and what this means for how we then interact with this immaterial God.

One's concept of God can significantly shape their worldview. Throughout history, the concept of God has played a central role in shaping human civilizations, providing answers to profound existential questions and guiding moral values. In this lesson, we explore why it is crucial for humans that God is immaterial, examining its impact on human understanding, spirituality, morality, and the pursuit of meaning.

God's immateriality challenges the dichotomous thinking that permeates our perception of the world. The concept of an immaterial God invites us to transcend divisions, recognizing the inherent unity in all things. In this lesson, we consider how we might move beyond the confines of dualistic thought and embrace a holistic perspective that sees the interconnectedness of all existence.

Our course concludes with this lectio Divina contemplation audio in which we reflect on Psalm 139. This beautiful and well known Psalm considers the immaterial nature of God and how this means that there is no place outside of God. may your reflection on this Psalm consolidate your learning about God's immaterial nature in a practical way as you are inspired to live out the reality of God's ever presence, God's Being, in and around you at all times.