On Anatheism: Embracing the Divine Beyond Dogma

By Adis Duderija, New Age Islam 8 July 2025 In the contemporary landscape of belief, the fading presence of traditional religious dogmas has sparked a profound re-evaluation of how we relate to the divine. This paradigm shift, often referred to as “anatheism” invites us to explore a new kind of religious project that transcends the old certainties and opens a space for deeper, more responsible engagements with the divine. In this essay, it will be argued that the passing of the old God has indeed paved the way for a more profound exploration of spiritual wonder, allowing us to seek, sound, and love the things we call divine with renewed vigour and authenticity. The End of Old Certainties Historically, religious beliefs have often been tied to rigid dogmas and absolute certainties. The God of traditional theismwas often portrayed as an omnipotent, omniscient being whose will was manifest in scripture and doctrine. This conception of God provided followers with a clear framework for understanding the world and their place within it. However, as society has evolved, so too has our understanding of the divine. The rise of secularism, scientific inquiry, and philosophical scepticism has led many to question the validity of these old certainties. In this context, the passing of the old God can be seen as a liberation from the constraints of dogmatic belief. The suspension of these certainties creates a fertile ground for spiritual exploration. It challenges us to confront the mysteries of existence without the crutch of definitive answers. In this space, we find the opportunity to engage with the divine in a way that is not dictated by prescribed beliefs, but rather driven by personal experienceand inquiry. This shift is not about abandoning spirituality but rather about redefining it on our own terms. Encountering Religious Wonder Anew In the absence of dogmatic constraints, we are invited to encounter religious wonder in fresh and meaningful ways. Anatheism does not imply a rejection of spirituality; rather, it encourages an exploration that is grounded in wonder, curiosity, and a deep appreciation for the mysteries of life. This approach allows for a more nuanced understanding of the divine, one that embraces ambiguityand uncertainty rather than shying away from it. Consider the natural world around us. The beauty of a sunset, the complexity of an ecosystem, or the vastness of the cosmos can evoke feelings of awe and reverence that transcend traditional religious frameworks. These experiences can be seen as encounters with the divine, offering a sense of connection to something greater than ourselves. By stepping beyond dogmatic interpretations, we can appreciate the sacredness inherent in the world around us and engage with it on a more profound level. A New Responsibility in Seeking the Divine As we navigate this new terrain of belief, there comes a responsibility to approach the divine with humility and openness. Anatheism encourages us to seek the divine not through rigid doctrines, but through personal reflection, communal dialogue, and a willingness to learn from diverse perspectives. This shift in approach fosters a sense of interconnectedness, as we recognise that our understanding of the divine is shaped by our unique experiences and the cultures we inhabit. In this context, the search for the divine becomes a collaborative endeavour. It invites us to engage with others in meaningful conversations about spirituality, ethics, and the nature of existence. This dialogue can enrich our understanding and help us cultivate a more inclusive and compassionate approach to the divine. By recognizing that our perspectives are but fragments of a larger mosaic, we can embrace the diversity of beliefs and experiences that enrich the human experience. The Intersection of Theism and Atheism Situated at the split between theism and atheism, anatheism offers a unique vantage point from which to explore the divine. It acknowledges the validity of both stances, recognizing that the quest for understanding often lies in tension between belief and disbelief. This intersection allows for a richer exploration of spiritual questions, encouraging us to embrace uncertainty while remaining open to the possibility of the divine. In this space, we can respond to the unexplainable with a sense of wonder rather than fear. The mysteries of existence, such as the origins of the universe, the nature of consciousness, and the complexities of human relationships, can inspire a sense of reverence without the need for dogmatic answers. Here, the divine is not confined to a particular belief system, but can be understood as a dynamic, evolving conceptthat reflects our ongoing search for meaning. The passing of the old God marks not an end, but rather a new beginning in our relationship with the divine. Anatheism invites us to embrace the complexities of faith and doubt, allowing for a more profound engagement with the mysteries of existence. In this space, we are free to seek, sound, and love the divine in ways that resonate with our unique experiences and understanding. As we move forward in this new paradigm, let us approach the divine with curiosity, compassion, and humility. By doing so, we can cultivate a spiritual landscape that honours the richness of human experience while remaining open to the wonders that lie beyond our comprehension. The journey into this uncharted territory is not just a quest for answers; it is an invitation to explore the sacredness of life in all its forms, fostering a deeper connection to the divine that transcends the boundaries of traditional belief. ------ Checkout Dr. Adis Duderija’s personal website at: https://dradisduderija.com/ A decades old patron of New Age Islam, Dr Adis Duderija is a Senior Lecturer in the Study of Islam and Society, School of Humanities, Languages and Social Science; Senior Fellow Centre for Interfaith and Intercultural Dialogue, Griffith University | Nathan | Queensland | Australia. His forthcoming books are (co-edited) - Shame, Modesty, and Honour in Islam and Interfaith Engagement beyond the Divide (Springer) URL: https://www.newageislam.com/spiritual-meditations/anatheism-embracing-divine-dogma/d/136113 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism