Religion
Clearing the Energy: The Growing Popularity of Incense in the West
Hyungi Park, a 25-year-old incense maker, notes the significance of incense in religious ceremonies and how it differs from candles or essential oils in terms of intention and mood. She has seen a 142% increase in sales from April to September compared to the same period the previous year, with her £45 ($56) incense-making kit being a popular item. Incense comes in many forms and has been used for thousands of years worldwide, often associated with mindfulness practices like meditation and yoga. Isabel Lee, 26, another studio director, reported a 130% increase in online sales, citing incense as an attractive alternative to candles for its ease of use. Incense is closely tied to ritual practices, especially in South Asian cultures, where it is often used in temples and homes. Shrankhla Hole...
How Digital Religion Is Reshaping Spirituality Among Millennials
In an era of increasing digital connectivity, a new study suggests that digital religion among millennials in the U.S. and Canada is not replacing traditional worship but instead enriching it. The research, conducted by Sarah Wilkins-Laflamme, a sociology professor at the University of Waterloo, examines the role of digital platforms in the spiritual lives of young adults and explores whether these technologies are driving a “spiritual revolution.” With the rise of online sermons, religious social media content, and virtual chat groups with faith leaders, religious communities have found digital avenues to engage younger generations. However, Wilkins-Laflamme’s study reveals that while digital religion enhances the experience of those already involved in organized religion, it is not neces...
How the Metaverse Could Transform Religious Experience
Throughout history, new technologies have consistently reshaped religious practice. In the late 19th century, when early radio broadcasts emerged, many listeners described their experience as spiritual. The ethereal voices seemed to emanate from another dimension, and some even believed that radio had unlocked a gateway to the spirit world. Séances, too, gained popularity during this era, driven by a fascination with unseen forces. Today, religion is again undergoing a profound transformation, with the digital age offering new ways to engage with spirituality. As the internet continues to evolve, it presents unprecedented opportunities to understand, participate in, and experience religious activities. Though participation in traditional religious institutions is on the decline in parts of...
