Alan Watts: 'The style of God venerated in the church, mosque, or synagogue seems completely different from the style of the natural universe.'

The style of God venerated in the church, mosque, or synagogue seems completely different from the style of the natural universe.

"The style of God venerated in the church, mosque, or synagogue seems completely different from the style of the natural universe." - Alan WattsIn this thought-provoking quote, renowned philosopher Alan Watts invites us to ponder the contrasting styles of the divine worshiped in religious institutions, and the style exhibited by the natural universe. At first glance, one may interpret this quote to imply a dichotomy between the human interpretations and constructions of divinity, and the inherent truths that lie within the natural world. However, upon deeper reflection, a fascinating philosophical concept emerges – that the perceived differences between religious worship and the natural universe may not be as distinct as they seem.On one hand, religious institutions have developed specific styles of worship that are deeply engrained in their respective traditions. The grandeur of cathedrals, adorned with intricate stained glass windows and lofty arches, often reflects the solemn and reverent atmosphere maintained within their walls. Mosques, with their unique domes and minarets, evoke a sense of serenity and spirituality. Synagogues, too, carry their distinctive architectural styles and rituals that help create a sacred space for connection with the divine. These styles, shaped by centuries of human creativity, attempt to capture and convey the essence of God, providing a tangible and structured form for worshipers to engage with their beliefs.On the other hand, the natural universe possesses its own awe-inspiring style that is, by all accounts, magnificent and ineffable. The vastness of the cosmos, with its countless galaxies and celestial bodies, elicits a sense of wonder and humility in the face of its incomprehensible scale. The intricate ecosystems that exist on our planet, with their intricate interdependencies and cycles of life and death, demonstrate a profound sense of harmony and balance. From the magnificent beauty of a sunset to the relentless power of a thunderstorm, the natural world has a style that captivates our senses and reminds us of the inexorable forces at play.Upon closer inspection, though, the dichotomy between the styles represented in religious worship and the natural universe starts to blur. It is in the appreciation of their shared elements that a fascinating philosophical concept arises. Both the religious institutions and the natural universe are expressions of humanity's quest for meaning and transcendence. Through religious worship, humans seek to establish a connection with the divine, to understand their place in the universe, and to find solace and purpose in the face of life's uncertainties. Similarly, the natural universe, in all its grandeur, prompts us to contemplate our existence, our purpose, and our connection to something greater than ourselves.Moreover, the styles of worship found in religious institutions can be seen as human attempts to capture and channel the divine energy already present in the natural world. The towering arches and stained glass windows of cathedrals, for instance, aim to replicate the majesty of nature, providing a space for believers to experience a symbolic union with the divine. In this way, the styles of religious worship can be viewed as complementary to, rather than distinct from, the style of the natural universe.Ultimately, Watts' thought-provoking quote urges us to explore the interconnectedness between the styles of worship found in religious institutions and the wondrous beauty of the natural universe. It encourages us to reflect upon the diverse cultural expressions of spirituality, while recognizing the underlying pursuit shared by all humanity – a desire to understand and connect with something greater than ourselves. By broadening our perspective, we can discover the potential for harmony and unity amidst the perceived differences in style, allowing for a richer and more inclusive understanding of the divine.