The late 1960s and early 1970s were a whirlwind of cultural upheaval. America, and indeed the world, was grappling with the Vietnam War, social unrest, and a deep-seated yearning for something more. The counterculture movement, with its emphasis on rebellion, individual expression, and questioning of traditional values, found fertile ground in the hearts of young … Read more
The Essence of a Spiritual Transaction The hushed whispers of the market, the gleam of gold in a dim-lit chamber, and the solemn pronouncements from a pulpit – these are scenes woven through the long history of *simony*, a practice that has cast a shadow over faith and spiritual leadership for centuries. From the early … Read more
Defining “Oldest Religion” The quest to understand the human condition is a thread woven through the fabric of time. Throughout history, humans have sought meaning, purpose, and connection beyond the tangible world. One of the most profound expressions of this search is found in religion, a complex system of beliefs, values, and practices that shapes … Read more
Historical Background and Origins The Ancient Near East and the Rise of Asherah The whispers of ancient deities and the echoes of forgotten rituals often resonate in the pages of history. Among the many intriguing figures that populate these stories, the goddess Asherah and her symbolic representation, the Asherah pole, hold a unique place. To … Read more
Introduction Pope Leo XIII, the pontiff who reigned for a remarkable twenty-five years at the close of the nineteenth and the dawn of the twentieth centuries, remains a figure of considerable fascination. His encyclicals, particularly *Rerum Novarum*, laid the groundwork for modern Catholic social teaching, and his pontificate navigated a turbulent era of industrial revolution, … Read more
