Ep 3. Acts of Faith

Belief is a documentary series that explores the power of religion and spirituality in shaping human lives and societies. Each episode of this series brings us closer to the religious and spiritual beliefs of people from different cultural backgrounds, and offers insights into the mysteries and wonders of faith.

In Season 1 Episode 3 of Belief, titled Acts of Faith, we journey into the heart of one of the most famous religious practices in the world: pilgrimage. We follow the story of four individuals from different parts of the world who embark on a journey of faith to seek spiritual enlightenment and renewal.

The first story we encounter takes us to the holy city of Varanasi in India, where we meet a young woman named Neelam. Neelam is a devotee of Shiva, the Hindu god of destruction and creation, and she has come to Varanasi to immerse herself in the Ganga river, which is believed to wash away all sins. We witness Neelam's preparation for the ritual, which involves fasting, prayer, and meditation. We also see how she copes with the challenges of the pilgrimage, such as the crowded streets, the chaotic traffic, and the noise of the city.

The second story takes us to the deserts of Morocco, where we meet a group of Sufis, a mystical branch of Islam, who are performing a ritual dance in honor of their saint. We learn about the Sufi tradition of "whirling", a spiritual practice that involves spinning around in circles to attain a state of ecstasy and divine union. We hear from the Sufis about their faith, their devotion, and their experience of being one with God.

The third story brings us to the mountains of Japan, where we follow a group of Buddhist monks on a pilgrimage to a sacred site called Mt. Koya. We learn about the history and symbolism of Buddhism in Japan, and we witness the monks' disciplined and rigorous approach to the pilgrimage, which involves hiking for days on end, sleeping in simple lodges, and observing strict rules of conduct. We also hear about the monks' philosophy of life, which emphasizes the impermanence of all things and the need to let go of attachments.

The final story takes us to the streets of Brooklyn, New York, where we meet a group of young African-American men who have turned to Islam in search of a better way of life. We learn about their conversion stories, their struggles with poverty, crime, and racism, and their quest for spiritual guidance. We also see how they draw strength and inspiration from their faith, which gives them a sense of purpose, community, and hope.

Throughout the episode, we are treated to stunning visuals of each location, as well as interviews with experts, scholars, and practitioners of each faith. We hear about the history, theology, and practice of Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism, and Sufism, and we gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity and richness of religious experience. We also witness the common threads that unite all pilgrims, regardless of their faith or culture: the longing for meaning, the search for connection, and the yearning for transcendence.

Acts of Faith is a moving and inspiring episode of Belief that reminds us of the power of faith to transform lives and bring people together. It shows us that, despite our differences, we are all part of a larger spiritual journey that spans time and space, and that connects us to something greater than ourselves. It invites us to reflect on our own beliefs and practices, and to find the courage and the faith to follow our own paths of pilgrimage towards enlightenment and grace.