“The Holiest and Greatest Things”

Abstract

When we think about religious problems, we tend to focus on issues about faith and doctrine. But religious language can be problematical as well. Even within a fervent faith community, there can be discrepancies in how believers use theological terms—“salvation,” for example. An equally serious problem is that believers may feel pressured to put aside their critical thinking skills when they read, write, and talk about their faith. One important step is to recognize that religious literature—including the Bible—is a text. Even divinely inspired words must obey the laws of language—and that can open believers up to new and deeper spiritual experiences.