What Everybody Gets Wrong About God: Rethinking Spirituality for Modern Life
What comes to mind when you hear the word “God”? For many, images of an old man in the sky or stern religious rules appear. Rabbi Simon Jacobson urges us to go deeper, challenging assumptions and inviting us to rediscover spirituality in a fresh and relevant way.
The Trouble with Stereotypes
It’s easy to get stuck on superficial ideas about God—whether it’s inherited from childhood, culture, or the limited portrayals we see in media. This can make spirituality feel distant, rigid, and outdated. Rabbi Jacobson has observed this in conversations across the spectrum—from those turned off by dogma to sincere seekers grappling with faith.
A relatable example: Think of someone who stopped attending religious services because the rituals seemed empty, or a friend who dismisses spirituality entirely as “unscientific.” These are common experiences, yet they usually stem from interacting with the surface rather than the spiritual core beneath.
Rediscovering the Essence
Rabbi Jacobson’s approach flips the script: instead of focusing on definitions and doctrines, he encourages questioning those very stereotypes. True spirituality, he teaches, is not about subscribing to a list of rigid beliefs or performing rituals robotically. Instead, it’s about seeking connection, meaning, and purpose in everyday life.
He likens rituals to playing notes on a piano—without tuning in to the music, the experience becomes flat. Only by seeking the soul within our traditions do they become alive and inspiring. Even for those who are skeptical, questioning what “God” really means can be its own journey—challenging personal beliefs and making space for a broader understanding.
Turning Theory into Practice
You don’t have to be a theologian to begin this exploration. Here are some actionable steps inspired by Rabbi Jacobson’s teachings:
- Pause and Examine Assumptions: When you think about spirituality, ask yourself—are these ideas yours, or inherited stereotypes? Make room for a more personal understanding.
- Engage Mindfully: Bring intention to daily practices, whether it’s a morning walk, sharing a meal, or doing a kind act. See these moments as opportunities to connect with something greater than yourself.
- Question Productively: Allow yourself to ask big questions. Instead of “Is there a God?” try “What does spirituality mean to me today?” or “How can I bring greater purpose into my life?”
- Turn Challenges into Opportunities: When facing difficulties, look for meaning or growth, rather than just obstacles. Rabbi Jacobson teaches that every struggle can be a window into deeper purpose.
Bridging the Universal and the Personal
While rooted in Jewish thought, these insights speak to anyone feeling disconnected or searching for more depth in life. The message is universal: spirituality isn’t about proving or disproving dogmas. It’s about enriching daily living, being curious, and letting go of preconceived limitations.
Challenge yourself to see beyond the familiar. Reexamine the spiritual journey on your own terms, and don’t be afraid to ask hard questions. That’s where the most meaningful connections can begin.
For a deeper dive into this topic, expand your journey by watching the full class: What Everybody Gets WRONG About God.
