276. What’s Your Spiritual Story: Jonathan on Zen Buddhism, World Religions, and Finding Judaism

Questions? Comments? Text Us!In this episode of God: An Autobiography, The Podcast, Jerry L. Martin speaks with philosopher and world religions scholar Jonathan Weidenbaum in the series “What’s Your Spiritual Story.”Jonathan shares how his early fascination with Zen Buddhism, Hinduism, and Eastern philosophy led to a lifelong exploration of world religions. Through study, travel, and teaching, he immersed himself in diverse spiritual traditions across Asia while engaging deeply with thinkers like Martin Buber and Søren Kierkegaard.Yet his path was not one of leaving Judaism behind—but of returning. Jonathan reflects on rediscovering Jewish practice through attending shul, putting on tefillin, and reconnecting with the rhythms and disciplines of religious life. His story highlights the tension between exploration and rootedness, and the way a tradition can call someone back over time.The conversation explores spirituality, philosophy, prayer, and the challenge of understanding the divine—whether as a personal God or an ultimate reality. It also reflects on how religious identity can be reshaped in response to both personal searching and the pressures of the modern world.Jonathan, Jerry, and others continue this conversation at Ultimate Questions, a public Substack from Theology Without Walls exploring life’s deepest questions across traditions. Join the discussion at substack.com/@ultimatequestions.Other Series:The podcast began with the Dramatic Adaptation of the book and now has several series:The Life Wisdom Project – Spiritual insights on living a wiser, more meaningful life.From God to Jerry to You – Divine messages and breakthroughs for seekers.Two Philosophers Wrestle With God – A dialogue on God, truth, and reason.Jerry & Abigail: An Intimate Dialogue – Love, faith, and divine presence in partnership.What’s Your Spiritual Story – Real stories of people changed by encounters with God.What’s On Our Mind – Reflections from Jerry and Scott on recent episodes.What’s On Your Mind – Listener questions, divine answers, and open dialogue. Stay ConnectedShare your thoughts or questions at [email protected] the books: Radically Personal: God and Ourselves in the New Axial Age | God: An Autobiography, As Told to a PhilosopherShare Your Story | Site | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube