CAN SPIRITUALITY AND TECHNOLOGY LIVE TOGETHER

in ecoTrain3 years ago (edited)

In explaining my view on this topic, it is imperative to define the two key words in order to make my points clearer. This is necessary especially as I have realized that most of the misconceptions and false ideologies people have on spirituality and technology is borne out of ignorance regarding what the two terms actually mean and represent. Wikitionary.org defines Spirituality as "the quality or state of being spiritual, concern for that which is unseen and intangible, as opposed to physical or mundane and appreciation for religious values." while technology refers to "the organization of knowledge for practical purposes".

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I must state with clarity that Spirituality and Technology can live together to an extent. However, it depends on the discipline and choice of the user whether this relationship and coexistence proves detrimental or beneficial to him/her. In buttressing my points, I will be citing examples based on a form of spirituality which is entrenched in my religion: Christianity. In my opinion, this doesn't make me bias since there are thousands of major and mini-religion and it's virtually impossible for anyone to be familiar with the precepts and values of each.
One of the best ways to advance and grow spiritually in Christianity is by reading the Holy Scripture which is the Holy Bible.

However, personal experience had taught me that it is easier to access scripture verses, notations and annotations via a technological tool which is an Android Tablet or Mobile Phone that has a Bible Application installed on it. In fact, it is easier to navigate between various versions and translations on a phone than with the use of a hardcover Bible. Permit me to remind you that publication of hardcover Bibles are also products of technological advancement. So technology has directly contributed to the advancement of religion which forms a bedrock for spirituality.
In addition to this, it is possible to download several spiritually uplifting songs, podcasts sermons etc through the internet. Global evangelism is made possible through the advancement of improved communication and transportation means which are products of technology. Thus, it is safe to say that Jesus Christ's instruction in Mathew 28:18-20 is dependent on technology:

Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

  • Matthew 28:19

NB: This text was taken from the NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION)
Carpentry which was the profession on Jesus while he was human (according to Christian Theology), Fishing which was the profession of Disciples such as Peter, Andrew, James and John and tentmaking which was the profession of Apostle Paul, Priscilla and Aquila among others were technology-driven careers. This makes it clear that the Bible is not against technology. However, discipline and self-control is necessary for one to be able to use technology the right way so it doesn't become an impediment rather that a tool for spiritual growth.

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I would like to emphasize that the challenges that make most people suggest that technology cannot coexist with spirituality is not limited to its relationship with spirituality alone. The prevalence of pornography, Internet addiction, crime and violence etc do not only affect spirituality but other aspects of human life also.
In conclusion, it takes a conscious decision and self-discipline for Spirituality and Technology to live together harmoniously. This is my submission based on the listed points.