Seriously rambling

The "gods" of Our World - Understanding the Ultimate Realities We Worship Today

 

When discussing "gods" (with a small 'g'), the term can ignite controversy. People may quickly label me as a fanatic, a liberal, or as someone following a particular religion. However, this isn't about God in the traditional sense - rather, it's about the various "ultimate realities" that we cling to, which often replace God in our lives.

 

According to psychological definitions, "gods" point to an ultimate reality, yet the nature of that reality differs greatly from person to person. These so-called ultimate realities are what we hold onto and allow to take the place of God.

 

What Are These Modern "gods"? That I too unknowingly have enthroned in my life.

 

One - Me, Mine, and My Own 

 

Many people (including me a times) view themselves, their family, community, or their nation as the absolute reality. The idea is: "I am my own god." Everything we do must serve our own interests - be it for ourselves, our families, our companies, or even our nations. 

 

On a global scale, megalomaniacs and oligarchs make decisions based on this belief. Their nation becomes their god. And this too has a deeper desire, it serves me well too. There is no longer an ultimate truth - only the pursuit of personal dreams and desires.  Our feelings define what is true.

 

Tools Used: Manipulation, social media, and the spread of false truths, including distorted self-images online. The media often highlights these "megalomaniac dreams," ignoring the millions who are far removed from such aspirations. And the many lives that are lost when the powers that start acting based on these frameworks. 

 

Two - Money

 

Behind the "me, mine, and my own" mentality is the belief that money provides true fulfillment - Mammon, as referenced in the Good Book. Economic indicators like GDP and inflation become measures of well-being: "If the numbers are good, all is well."  Or if my bank balance is good (with dropping interest rates even), I am settled. 

 

Tools Used: Data, sometimes manipulated, is used to shape narratives. What isn't often discussed is the reality that 90% of the wealth is held by 10% of people, or that a handful of nations and corporations’ control most of the world’s resources. 

 

Three - My Religion

 

Religion has often replaced God as the ultimate reality. Leaders use religion as a tool for political or nationalistic ends, rather than as a path to spiritual fulfillment. The focus shifts from loving God and others to loving one’s own religious group - and sometimes, hating others. Or intentionally creating a movement of hate and division.

 

Tools Used: Religiosity, not genuine spirituality or relationships. Manipulated messages  make minorities feel threatened or fearful. 

 

Four - Machines and Technology

 

In the age of machines and technology, AI and digital advancements are promoted as solutions to all problems and often treated as the "god" of this era. These gadgets, unlike instruments that we control, often end up controlling us. These are both gods and tools.

 

Tools Used: Technology supports the above "gods," fuelling both false hopes and anxiety. However, many people worldwide still struggle for basic needs like food, shelter, health, and employment - technology is not their primary concern. The tech-driven community dominates media and messaging. And common man fall for the false truth promoted by this media too.

 

The Consequences

 

By enthroning these modern "gods," we've become an anxious and fearful generation - perpetuating divisions among nations and people. We are fearful of others, want to protect our turf, want to see how we can maximise our gains, and put down others. Technology is used not only to build but also to tear down.

 

Looking Forward

 

Unless we dethrone these man-made gods and re-enthrone God - the creator and sustainer of the universe - and commit to loving each other beyond all divides, the future looks bleak. The real challenge is: Will we find the sense to love beyond ourselves and our own? Will we have leaders who will look beyond their own petty interests? 

 

But then I realise, it should start with me – Like it is written “The line separating good and evil passes not through states, nor between classes, nor between political parties either -- but right through every human heart -- and through all human hearts. This line shifts. Inside us, it oscillates with the years. And even within hearts overwhelmed by evil, one small bridgehead of good is retained” - Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn, The Gulag Archipelago 1918–1956

And that small bridgehead can make a small ripple in my pond! Considering each other as equal created in the image of God.