Religion, Language and Knowledge

Much religious knowledge is second-hand knowledge, that has been passed down through the generations. This is often in the written form, although it can also happen orally. Given that many religions are old, it is sometimes difficult to interpret the original meaning of religious texts. Language evolves over time and some languages have even disappeared.

On top of that, religions have spread around the globe and with that, we are also faced with the problem of language in translation. Sometimes "corrupted versions" of religious texts have been appropriated and built upon. Attempts to go back to the original source aim to overcome this obstacle to knowledge. Occasionally, we hear about "discoveries" of mistranslations. The interpretation of the true meaning of religious texts, and the knowledge they embody, is much discussed by theologians, historians, linguists and "religious practitioners".

As seen above, to believers, religious evidence can come in the form of language. This is usually in the written form through texts such as the Bible, Torah, Koran etc. One issue with using (inspired) language as proof for the existence of God, is that you may end up with circular reasoning. In this sense, using language as religious evidence or proof may not be successful. However, that does not mean religious language is necessarily meaningless.

Although it is arguable whether we should use religious language as evidence for the existence of God (and value of our religion), we should consider the important role language plays within religion. Language can articulate a religious experience, reveal religious knowledge (through texts), disseminate religious knowledge (spreading the world) and even enforce faith. Language does indeed play a pivotal role in passing on religious knowledge, which is heavily dependent on cultural, historical and geographical factors. Language can also be used to enhance faith, for example through prayers, chanting and song. Interestingly, the very linguistic act of saying "I believe" actually feeds one's belief

A recurring debate within religion is how "literal" we should take its claims or explanations. For example, when we read in Genesis how God created the world in 6 days (with the 7th devoted to rest), some believers will use these verses to refute the Theory of Evolution. However, many believers today will resort to analogies or metaphors to reinterpret similar scriptures. In this way, religious knowledge can survive when new scientific knowledge contradicts the literal interpretation of its words. However, the use of analogies or metaphors is not only a matter of re-interpreting previous religious knowledge (or texts). In fact, many religions deliberately make use of analogies and metaphors. Jesus's teachings in The Bible, for example, often come in the form of parables, which were subsequently discussed with his disciples (and later on also in church). In Buddhism, as well, you can see examples of a similar use of metaphor. Religions often have a pedagogical function, and anaologies are very useful in this sense. In TOK, we might explore the role of analogy and metaphor in the acquisition of religious knowledge.