I'm not really any religion. I still study with Jehovah's

"I'm not really any religion. I still study with Jehovah's Witnesses, so I say I'm Apostolic Pentecostal Jehovah's Witness Seventh-Day Adventist Jew." These words from Tyka Nelson speak to the complexity and fluidity of personal belief in a world where religion is often seen as rigid, prescribed, and exclusive. Nelson’s statement is a reflection of a growing awareness in the modern world — that faith and spirituality do not always fit neatly into the boxes that tradition and society have created. The idea that one can draw wisdom and insight from multiple religions and philosophies suggests a more inclusive and personalized approach to spirituality, where individuals seek truth and connection without being confined to one specific doctrine or institution.

The origin of this approach can be found in the ancient and noble tradition of philosophical syncretism, where thinkers and spiritual leaders sought to integrate and harmonize the teachings of different cultures and belief systems. The Greeks and Romans often blended their religious practices, adapting foreign gods and rituals into their own religious life. Alexander the Great, during his conquests, spread Hellenistic culture, which brought together elements of Greek, Egyptian, Persian, and other traditions, creating a fusion of thought and spirituality. This ancient practice of blending and adapting belief systems shows that the desire for spiritual truth is universal, and it transcends the borders of any one faith or tradition.

Consider the life of Marcus Aurelius, the Stoic philosopher-emperor, whose philosophy was informed by a blend of different traditions. While he was raised in Roman paganism, his Stoic beliefs led him to embrace ideas from Greek philosophy and other traditions, focusing on the practice of virtue and rationality rather than strict adherence to the rituals of his time. His acceptance of a broader, more universal approach to philosophy allowed him to govern with wisdom and understanding, transcending the limitations of religious and cultural divides. Similarly, Tyka Nelson’s embrace of multiple religious traditions allows her to seek a deeper understanding and personal connection to the divine, not confined by the narrow boundaries of one specific faith.

In the same vein, we can also reflect on the Buddhist idea of “Ekam sat vipra bahudha vadanti”, meaning “Truth is one, the wise call it by many names.” This ancient Sanskrit truth emphasizes that spiritual wisdom and truth can be found in multiple traditions, and the search for meaning need not be limited to one path. Just as Nelson draws from various religious teachings to build her own spiritual practice, the wise recognize that different cultures and traditions offer various insights that can contribute to a fuller understanding of existence and the divine. This does not diminish the value of any particular religion, but rather celebrates the richness of human spirituality.

Consider Mahatma Gandhi, who, though deeply rooted in Hinduism, also drew wisdom from Christianity, Islam, and other faiths. Gandhi's teachings were shaped by a belief in the unity of all religions, recognizing that love, compassion, and truth were central to every spiritual path. He famously said, "I am a Hindu, a Christian, a Buddhist, and a Muslim." Gandhi’s example shows us that spirituality is not a matter of belonging to a particular sect or denomination, but rather about aligning ourselves with universal values that transcend religious boundaries. Gandhi, like Nelson, embraced a more inclusive approach to faith, one that sought the common good rather than division.

The lesson that Tyka Nelson imparts is one of spiritual openness and personal connection to the divine. It is a reminder that faith is not a static label, but a dynamic and evolving journey. We are not limited by the doctrines of any one religion; we have the capacity to draw wisdom and understanding from various spiritual traditions to cultivate a practice that is uniquely our own. By embracing diverse teachings, we can weave together a tapestry of beliefs that resonates with our own spiritual and personal experiences, rather than feeling confined by the boundaries of one path.

To apply this wisdom in our own lives, let us approach religion and spirituality with openness and humility, recognizing that no one path holds the exclusive claim on truth. Seek wisdom from various sources — whether philosophy, religion, or personal reflection — and allow them to inform and deepen our understanding of life and meaning. Be open to diversity in thought and belief, and seek to find common ground in the universal truths that underlie all human spiritual experience. Respect the different paths that others may walk, while also carving your own unique path toward enlightenment and connection to the divine.