How Religion Can Do All (from 2013)

It seems to me that Nietzsche first tried to destroy religion then spent the rest of his life trying to recreate religion. This is what modern philosophy, art, and even politics tries to do.

Modern philosophy and art might insist that religion is a form of art, but it is art that is a form of religion. Like religion, philosophy and art simplify the great struggles of life, or as Nietzsche put it, (“Wagner In Bayreuth”) art produces a shorter solution to the riddle of existence.

Good art does not really instruct or offer direct action, it gives aesthetic feelings which only indirectly instruct, or as I put it, affirm the sacred. But religion can do it all, with rituals, music, philosophy, art, as well as direct instruction.

Political philosophy often tries to be all things to all people but usually leaves out religious roots and goals, which is why it doesn't last very long.

In the past, religion included all the best scientific knowledge of the day, but it has not done so well in modern times. Religion should be deep enough and wise enough to include ongoing science, as it should philosophy, art, and political considerations. The theological materialism of the Twofold Path in the religious philosophy of the projected Theoevolutionary Church seeks this synthesis. 

As we drift out here in the immense cosmos, along with all the problems on our planet; our evolution to Godhood helps us affirm the sacred.