"En esencia, vemos la religión como una búsqueda muy literal en Occidente; otros países la ven como más poética y metafísica."

In the West, we tend to see religion through a very literal lens. We focus on the exact words, the historical accuracy, and the concrete details of religious texts and practices. It's like we're trying to solve a puzzle, where every piece fits together in just one way. Other cultures, however, often approach religion with a more poetic and metaphysical mindset. They see the stories and rituals as symbols and metaphors, full of deeper meanings and universal truths.

Think about the difference between reading a novel and reading a technical manual. When you read a novel, you're looking for the emotions, the themes, and the bigger picture. You might not care if every little detail makes perfect sense. But with a technical manual, you need clarity and precision. In the West, our approach to religion can sometimes feel like reading a manual—we want everything to be clear-cut and factual. Meanwhile, in other parts of the world, people might treat religious texts more like novels, looking for the underlying messages and the emotional truths.

Historically, this difference in perspective has shaped how religions develop and influence cultures. In Europe and North America, the Enlightenment emphasized reason and empirical evidence, which spilled over into how people approached religion. There was a push towards proving the historical accuracy of religious events and interpreting texts in a way that made logical sense. On the other hand, Eastern philosophies and religions, such as Hinduism and Buddhism, have long embraced a more fluid and interpretive approach, celebrating the mystical and the symbolic.

For a vivid example, consider the story of the Garden of Eden. In many Western Christian traditions, this story is often taught as a literal historical event. It is seen as a cornerstone of understanding human nature and original sin. But in many Eastern Christian traditions, this story is viewed more allegorically. It represents the struggle of the human soul and the journey towards enlightenment. It's not about an actual garden and an actual apple; it's about the inner experiences and spiritual growth.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your life? Start by opening your mind to different interpretations. When you encounter a religious text or practice, don't just ask, "What does this literally mean?" Instead, ask, "What could this symbolize? What deeper truths might it reveal?" Embrace the ambiguity and the layers of meaning. Recognize that sometimes, the beauty of a story lies not in its factual accuracy but in its ability to touch your soul and make you think.

Imagine you're having a conversation with a friend who's from a different cultural background. They tell you about a religious ritual they participate in, one that doesn't make logical sense to you. Instead of dismissing it or trying to find a literal explanation, ask them about the feelings and the meanings behind it. What does it represent for them? How does it connect them to something larger than themselves?

By shifting your perspective, you can enrich your understanding of religion and spirituality. You might find that these ancient stories and rituals have a lot to offer beyond their literal interpretations. They can inspire you, challenge you, and help you see the world—and yourself—in a new light. So next time you pick up a religious text or hear about a spiritual practice, try to read between the lines. Look for the poetry, the metaphors, and the universal truths. You might be surprised at what you discover.