118: Richard Rohr - The Tears of Things

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Mar 17, 2025

In this engaging discussion, Richard Rohr, a renowned spiritual teacher and author, shares insights from his latest work, The Tears of Things. He reframes prophets as vital voices against systemic societal sins rather than just moral enforcers. The dialogue explores the dangers of dualistic thinking, the significance of humility, and the necessity of self-awareness in spiritual growth. Rohr reflects on his journey, the importance of initiation rites, and how genuine transformation requires embracing imperfection and compassion in our collective struggles.

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INSIGHT

Meaning of Christ

Rohr clarifies that "Christ" is not Jesus' last name but a title signifying the universal manifestation of divinity in material form.
Jesus is the historical embodiment of this for Christians.

INSIGHT

Idolatry

Rohr argues that the primary sin is idolatry, particularly making an idol of the historical Jesus.
This violates a core Christian principle.

ANECDOTE

Why the Prophets?

Rohr chose to write about the prophets because he was once described as trying to establish a 'school for prophets'.
This prompted him to explore the importance of prophecy in building up the church, as Paul emphasized.

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Check out Richard Rohr’s latest book, The Tears of Things, where he explores the wisdom of the prophets and the realities of social sin. In this episode of The Sacred Speaks, I sit down with Father Richard Rohr—one of the most respected spiritual teachers of our time. We dive into the significance of prophecy, the necessity of self-awareness in transformation, and the ways in which religion can both illuminate and obscure the path to truth. Father Rohr shares insights from The Tears of Things, his latest book, which reframes the role of the prophets—not as finger-wagging moralists but as voices crying out against the deep, systemic sins that threaten to unravel society. Our conversation moves through themes of non-dual thinking, the dangers of religious idolatry, and how true spiritual growth requires both inner work and a commitment to the collective good. Throughout the episode, Richard offers deeply personal reflections on his own spiritual journey, the necessity of sadness and self-doubt, and the ongoing process of transformation that never really ends. Episode Timestamps (00:00) Introduction and Announcements (02:44) Richard Rohr’s Spiritual Journey and Early Influences (08:21) The Franciscan Way and the Practice of Humility (13:39) The Trap of Dualistic Thinking and the Ego (18:43) The Power of Initiation and Rites of Passage (35:00) The Role of Prophets in Society Today (47:23) Understanding the Concept of Demons and Possession (49:14) The Father Wound and Healing Parental Relationships (50:23) The Prophets and Their Enduring Insights (50:52) The Remnant and the Wisdom of the Minority (53:27) The Problem with Majority Rule and Empires (57:29) Personal Struggles, Doubt, and the Spiritual Journey (01:06:17) The Role of Sadness in Awakening and Solidarity (01:10:55) Medicalizing Sin and the Social Consequences (01:14:49) The Prophet’s Vision and Its Relevance Today (01:18:40) Reflections on Life, Death, and Spiritual Evolution (01:27:52) Final Thoughts: Reward, Punishment, and the Nature of Grace Watch & Listen: YouTube: The Sacred Speaks Instagram: @thesacredspeaks Twitter: @thesacredspeaks Facebook: The Sacred Speaks 🙏 Brought to you by: The Center for Healing Arts & Sciences 🎵 Theme music by: Modern Nations Announcements & Updates Exciting news! In May, I’ll be hosting my first online workshop, where I’ll explore key ideas from my upcoming book. This is a free offering, and if you want to be part of it, you can sign up when the new website is live @. www.drjohnwprice.com You’ll have six weeks to register—don’t miss it! Also, I’m getting back into a regular podcast rhythm—two episodes per month, including at least one solo episode where I’ll dive deeper into the themes of spirituality, psychology, and transformation. I’ve had a full year, but I’m excited to re-engage with these conversations and this community. So, let’s get into it. Richard Rohr, welcome to The Sacred Speaks.