What happens when the quiet clarity of Zen meets the rational spirit of Deism? In this first episode, we explore Zen Deism—a spiritual approach that combines the Deist’s trust in reason with the Zen practitioner’s devotion to meditation.
Drawing from thinkers like Paul Tillich, Anthony Flew, and Aristotle, this episode examines God not as a “supreme being,” but as the Ground of Being—the infinite intelligence underlying all. From dhyāna to Deism, from silent sitting to clear seeing, we’ll look at how meditation becomes a way to reconnect with the mystery reason reveals but cannot explain.
Join me as I trace my own path from Deist philosophy to Zen practice, discovering what it means to live with a Deist mind and a Zen heart.
Key idea: God gave us reason, not revelation.
Dr. Jay Forrest is a Zen Deist Philosopher exploring rational spirituality, contemplative practice, and the quiet wisdom that emerges from a reflective life beyond traditional religion.