Territory, relationship or path: A brief survey in metaphors of “double religious belonging”

Abstract

The discussion about “double” or “multiple belonging” does not take into account that there is no mandatory definition of religion. This paper explores some of the metaphors involved. “Belonging to a religion” implies a passive attitude and can signify “belonging to a mental or physical territory”; or it can signify “belonging to a group or person”, i.e. it signifies a relationship. “Religion” is a Western concept, which cannot be translated e.g. into Sanskrit. One of the important Indian metaphors used is “path” or “way”, which transports instead of a passive “belonging” the active notion of “owning it”. “Belonging” could be seen in a context of identity politics, whereas “way” or “path” refers to the human need of spiritual transformation.