Institutionalization

An important aspect of Sufi teachings is that human structures do not last. Sufis here point at social, not at physical, structures, although physical structures also decay. The main point is that if a genuine spirit has departed a social arrangement (a spiritual community, a teaching group), it may survive for many centuries but only as fossilized imitation. Jesus expressed the same meaning in more poetical language. Matthew 5:13 brings us the words. “Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? It is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.” Now, of course, a structure may act as a channel for the spirit. The Sufis therefore say that “the channel doesn’t drink.” They mean that the preachers (and with them also congregations) no longer believe. Perceive. Feel. Are in any way tuned in. This applies to decadent phenomena in religion: it’s all ritual, habit—often, indeed careless habit. Nevertheless, to the “ears that hear” and the “eyes that see,” the spirit will be evident even when those who repeat the words and motions no longer themselves perceive a thing. The spiritual life absolutely requires live participation. The magic bird descends but will not alight on any branch. Today's thought was in part occasioned by news accounts of the American Freemasons will now, under new leadership, begin a “Masonic Renaissance,” not least opening their doors to the public more and incentivizing members to recruit new members. A very old structure, Freemasonry. Is this a sign of decadence or renewal? Or neither?