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Anger and fear Quote by Mary Bray Pipher

“Religions are metaphorical systems that give us bigger containers in which to hold our lives. A spiritual life allows us to move beyond the ego into something more universal. Religious experience carries us outside of clock time into eternal time. We open ourselves into something more complete and…” quote by Mary Bray Pipher
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““Religions are metaphorical systems that give us bigger containers in which to hold our lives. A spiritual life allows us to move beyond the ego into something more universal. Religious experience carries us outside of clock time into eternal time. We open ourselves into something more complete and beautiful. This bigger vista is perhaps the most magnificent aspect of a religious experience. There is a sense in which Karl Marx was correct when he said that religion is the opiate of the people. However, he was wrong to scoff at this. Religion can give us skills for climbing up on onto a ledge above our suffering and looking down at it with a kind and open mind. This helps us calm down and connect to all of the world's sufferers. Since the beginning of human time, we have yearned for peace in the face of death, loss, anger and fear. In fact, it is often trauma that turns us toward the sacred, and it is the sacred that saves us.””

Mary Bray Pipher

About This Quote

Source Book: The Healing Power of Stories, Mary Bray Pipher, 1996

Religion offers symbolic frameworks that expand personal meaning, connect us beyond ego, and provide comfort against suffering, despite critiques of its social function.

In simple terms: Religion gives larger meaning and comfort.

Key Takeaway

Use spiritual symbols to broaden perspective.

Themes

meaning spirituality comfort community

Mood

hopeful contemplative

Type

inspirational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • grief counseling
  • interfaith dialogue
  • personal meditation

Key Concepts

symbolic systems ego transcendence temporal vs eternal time

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does symbolism aid healing?
  • When can religion become limiting?
A Different Perspective

Religion may also reinforce dogma or avoid practical action.

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