How your pet can help you tap into a sense of spirituality
Why do I cry when I see a donkey? It’s completely involuntary. As if my heart’s defenses are swept aside by a giant wave of compassion and I’m left unnerved by the intensity of love that I feel: raw and a little foreign. I wonder about this because I’m not a big animal guy. There’s […]
Pets can offer a unique sense of spirituality, even for those who are not typically drawn to animals. For one reporter, seeing a donkey has elicited an involuntary emotional response that challenges the notion of animals as separate from humans. This connection raises questions about the validity of the love felt for pets and prompts an exploration of spiritual perspectives on animal consciousness.
The dominant Christian view, which places humans above all other beings, has contributed to a mindset that justifies cruelty towards animals. However, alternative spiritual traditions present a more inclusive view of the interconnectedness of all life. For instance, early Christian theologians like Irenaeus and Origen viewed a comprehensive redemption where all creation would be reunited, including humans and their beloved pets.
Similarly, Hindu philosophy teaches that humans and animals share the same essence, and their souls are eternal. Medium Susan Allen, who communicates with deceased pets, believes that animals have a continuation of consciousness after their physical bodies die. This suggests that the love and gratitude expressed by pets for their owners is not diminished by death, but rather transcends it, offering comfort to those who have to say goodbye.
By embracing these spiritual perspectives, one can develop a deeper, more compassionate understanding of the bond between humans and animals, ultimately embracing a more holistic view of life and death.
Written by urgent.news from Vox's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
