On Being with Krista Tippett

Charles Haynes, a scholar at the First Amendment Center, discusses the balance of religious freedom and public education. Philip Hamburger, a law professor at the University of Chicago, explores the surprising origins of church-state separation in America, revealing historical complexities. Cheryl Crazy Bull, President of Northwest Indian College and member of the Lakota Nation, shares insights on the resurgence of Native religious practices and their significant role in tribal life. Together, they navigate the evolving landscape of religious liberty amid increasing diversity.

In remembering the legacy of four World War II chaplains — Catholic, Protestant, and Jewish — who went down together with their torpedoed ship in 1943, we speak with David Fox, nephew of one of the chaplains. We also hear interviews with surviving veterans and veterans of the German ship that torpedoed them. Finally, a conversation with author, poet, and Vietnam War veteran Bruce Weigl. His most recent book, The Circle of Hahn, chronicles the long personal journey he has made back to Vietnam and to the adoption of a beloved Vietnamese child. The paradox of his life as a writer, he says, is that the war ruined his life and gave him his voice. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In our time, some associate the word “religion” with rigid dogma and the excesses of institutions. The word “spirituality” on the other hand can seem to have little substance or form. The word “faith” can appear as a compromise of sorts, pointing to the content of religious tradition and spiritual experience. The truth is, all of these words are vague in the abstract. They gain meaning in the context of human experience. In this show, we’ll explore the connotations of the word “faith” in four traditions and lives: Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. We’ll speak with Sharon Salzberg, Rabbi Lawrence Kushner, Anne Lamott, and Omid Safi. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Author Bruce Feiler explores the story of Abraham in various religious traditions, highlighting the common patriarch of Judaism, Islam, and Christianity. The podcast delves into the impact of Abraham's lineage, interpretations of his story in different religions, unity between his sons Ishmael and Isaac, and the influence of Abraham on interfaith dialogue. It also reflects on the lasting legacy of Abraham and Bruce Feiler's book.

More than any crisis in modern memory, the War on Terror—including the current U.S. military presence in Iraq—is being debated in religious, usually Christian, terms. We explore the nuances of that debate with a former war correspondent, a political theorist, and a renowned preacher. We ask how and whether Christian principles really make a difference at this moment in our national life—and if not, why not? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mario Cuomo, the former Governor of New York, and Mark Souder, a former Congressman from Indiana, dive into the complex interplay between faith and politics. They reflect on how personal beliefs shape public policy and the moral dilemmas that arise in a diverse society. The conversation touches on navigating personal convictions while serving varied constituents, the essence of community action through shared principles, and the pressures politicians face in balancing religious values with governance in a pluralistic America.

Join Thomas Moore, a renowned psychotherapist and author, Debra Haffner, a passionate sexual educator and Unitarian Universalist minister, and Anthony Ugolnik, an Eastern Orthodox priest with progressive insights on sexuality. They dive into the significant intersections of spirituality and sexuality within religious traditions. Discussion points include redefining sexual morality, the complexities of faith and contemporary issues, and the importance of vulnerability in relationships. They advocate for holistic views that embrace sexuality as integral to the human spirit.

Parker Palmer, a Quaker educator and author, Phyllis Tickle, a keen observer of American religion, and Ingrid Mattson, a prominent Muslim theologian, dive into the spiritual turmoil following 9/11. They explore how the attacks reshaped American religiosity and patriotism, highlighting both a surge in church attendance and emerging complexities in faith. Ground Zero stands as a sacred space for mourning, embodying resilience and community healing. The conversation also emphasizes interfaith understanding and the need to recognize the contributions of the Muslim community amid a climate of fear and misunderstanding.

Khaled Abou El Fadl, a distinguished professor of law and human rights advocate, joins Richard J. Mouw, an evangelical scholar, and Yossi Klein Halevi, an author and political commentator. They delve into the magnetic pull of fundamentalism across Islam, Christianity, and Judaism, sharing personal journeys from extremism to insight. The discussion addresses the allure of belonging, the quest for truth in faith, and the moral complexities faced in times of crisis. Their reflections highlight the duality of fundamentalism and the transformative power of empathy in conflict.

Rami Nashashibi, a Palestinian American activist from Chicago, joins Holocaust survivors Leon Weinstein and Natalie Gold, along with Lisa Lampman, who works to support crime victims. They discuss the complexities of labeling actions as 'evil,' linking personal narratives to broader societal issues. The conversation dives into forgiveness, moral responsibility, and the necessity of compassion in confronting trauma. They also explore the nuances between natural and moral evil, urging listeners to engage in self-reflection and understand cultural perspectives on humanity's choices.