How To Choose A Religion

"First, don't choose a religion because your friends like it, or the music is cool, or the ritual is moving, or the people are friendly, or the building is impressive, or the leader is charismatic. 

Rather, choose a religion because its teachings point beyond themselves toward the Truth no religion can own; 

because it's worldview rejects the dualism of saved and damned, chosen and not chosen, true believer and infidel, high caste and low; 

because it rises above tribe, caste, clan, race, ethnicity and nationalism; 

because it embraces rational thought and scientific inquiry without sacrificing poetry, imagination, and contemplative practice; 

because it celebrates equality among and between men and women; 

because it demonizes no one; because it honors nature and respects all life; 

because it works to heal this world rather than escape to some other; 

because it upholds the dignity of all beings, human and otherwise; 

because its clergy empower you rather than themselves; 

because it offers you practices that open your heart, unclench your fists, and uncloud your mind; 

and because its fundamental aim is to free you from isms and ideologies rather than stuff you into one. 

If you find such a religion, let me know."

By Rabbi Rami Shapiro