PART 1 OF 2
“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.”
I have previously reviewed examples of how cult leaders can use sacred texts to exploit followers across Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism. In this post, I’m going a bit deeper into a Christian example.
Through my research on cults and cultic behaviour, I have frequently encountered the use of Matthew 7:13-14 to justify extreme beliefs and actions. One of the most shocking instances being its use in connection to Matthew 5:29-30 to rationalise the literal cutting off of a hand. The passage ("If your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell.") is interpreted in an alarmingly polarised manner. The cult leader in question used this extreme example to promote absolute righteousness and sinlessness from their followers, suggesting that if they fail, they must resort to self-mutilation to gain God’s favour or secure a place in heaven.
In other instances, the application of Matthew 7:13-14 may not be so severe, nonetheless, I’ve seen the verse used to justify black and white thinking so many occasions that I feel it’s appropriate to put forth an alternative interpretation.
The Narrow Gate and Extremism
The traditional interpretation of the "narrow gate" is that it represents a path of strict adherence to religious teachings and moral discipline. Imagery presented with this is often a road that forks out in two directions: the “right” way and the “wrong” way. While this interpretation emphasises the importance of commitment and righteousness, it can also be co-opted to justify extreme behaviours and exclusionary practices.
Religious groups and movements have historically used this passage to draw sharp lines between the righteous and the unrighteous, often leading to a "us versus them" mentality. This dichotomy can foster environments of coercion, where individuals feel pressured to conform to rigid norms to be deemed worthy. Such interpretations can perpetuate fear, guilt, and a sense of exclusivity, which are hallmarks of cult-like dynamics.
The Middle Path: A Balanced Approach
An alternative perspective on Matthew 7:13-14 suggests that the "narrow gate" symbolises a path of discernment and balance, rather than extremism. This can be imagined as a road forking out in three directions. Either side are polarities of extremism with the middle path symbolising avoidance of both. This interpretation aligns with the concept of the “middle way,” a principle found in various philosophical and religious traditions, including Buddhism, which advocates for a balanced approach to life, avoiding both excess and deficiency. Similarly, the Taoist idea of balancing yin and yang reflects the notion of balance.
The "narrow gate" can be seen as a metaphor for the careful and thoughtful navigation between extremes. It encourages individuals to pursue a path that is not swayed by the broad and often tempting ways of excess or the overly restrictive ways of fanaticism. This middle path requires a nuanced understanding of moral and spiritual teachings, emphasising personal growth and reflection over blind adherence to rigid rules.
Middle Path, Not Polarities
As the sayings go, too much of a good thing can be bad, and good can sometimes arise from the bad. I firmly believe that good and evil are not dichotomies, contrary to what many cult leaders claim. (Along with the message that they have divine knowledge of what the narrow path is, and following their instructions is the only way).
Evil has many faces, and it often manifests at the extremes of human behaviour and belief. On the broad path, one extreme may involve hedonistic indulgence and moral disregard, while the other could be characterised by fanaticism and oppressive righteousness. Other examples include:
Work and Rest: Overworking can lead to burnout, while excessive idleness can result in stagnation. Finding a balance between productive work and restorative rest is essential.
Social Interaction and Solitude: Constant socialising can be draining, while prolonged isolation can lead to loneliness. Balancing social engagement with time alone helps maintain emotional well-being.
Activity and Stillness: Overexertion through constant physical activity can cause injury and fatigue, while excessive inactivity can lead to poor health. A balance between movement and rest promotes overall fitness.
Emotional Expression and Suppression: Excessive emotional outbursts can create conflict, while complete suppression of emotions can lead to internal stress. Healthy emotional regulation involves expressing feelings appropriately.
Eating and Fasting: Overeating can lead to health issues, while extreme fasting can result in malnutrition. Maintaining a balanced diet supports physical health.
Spending and Saving: Compulsive spending can lead to financial instability, while excessive saving can prevent enjoying life’s pleasures. A balanced approach to finances ensures security and fulfilment.
Optimism and Pessimism: Extreme optimism can lead to unrealistic expectations, while persistent pessimism can result in a negative outlook on life. Balancing hope with realism fosters a healthy mindset.
Independence and Dependence: Complete independence can lead to isolation, while total dependence can result in a loss of self-sufficiency. Interdependence allows for mutual support and personal growth.
In all of the above extremes are perilous and represent different forms of evil that can lead to suffering and harm. Therefore, walking the narrow path means recognising that true virtue lies in avoiding these extremes. The narrow path is not about strict adherence to a singular interpretation of morality but rather finding the middle way that navigates between the extremes of evil on either side. This balanced path encourages discernment, humility, and the pursuit of a moderate and compassionate life, steering clear of both excess and fanaticism. By following this middle way, one can cultivate a more stable and just approach to living, fostering both personal and communal well-being.
Incorporating Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), developed by psychologist Marsha Linehan, provides a modern, evidence-based framework for navigating the middle path between extremes. Originally designed to treat borderline personality disorder, DBT has proven effective in managing a range of emotional and behavioural issues that can arise from anxiety disorders, bipolar, major depressive disorder, and PTSD. In fact, the promotion of a balanced approach to life is beneficial to all.
DBT emphasises four core components:
1. Mindfulness: Staying present in the moment, acknowledging and accepting thoughts and feelings without judgement.
2. Distress Tolerance: Developing skills to cope with distressing emotions and situations without resorting to extreme behaviours.
3. Emotion Regulation: Understanding and managing intense emotions in a healthy way.
4. Interpersonal Effectiveness: Navigating relationships with assertiveness and respect, balancing self-respect with respect for others.
These components align well with the concept of the middle road as an alternative interpretation of Matthew 7:13-14. DBT encourages individuals to avoid the extremes of emotional volatility and suppression, promoting a balanced, mindful approach to life.
Practical Implications of Matthew 7:13-14
Viewing Matthew 7:13-14 through the lens of the middle road and DBT has several practical implications:
1. Encourages Critical Thinking: This interpretation invites individuals to engage critically with their beliefs and practices, promoting a deeper understanding rather than rote compliance.
2. Fosters Inclusivity: A balanced approach reduces the tendency to ostracise those who do not conform to strict norms, fostering a more inclusive community.
3. Promotes Compassion: By avoiding extremes, individuals are more likely to practise compassion and empathy, understanding that the journey to spiritual and moral maturity is complex and unique for each person.
4. Supports Sustainable Practices: Extreme behaviours, whether overly ascetic or indulgent, are often unsustainable. The middle road encourages practices that are maintainable and healthy in the long run.
5. Enhances Emotional Well-being: Incorporating DBT principles helps individuals manage their emotions more effectively, leading to greater emotional stability and resilience.
Conclusion
Matthew 7:13-14 NKJV can be a powerful guide for spiritual and moral living. While the traditional interpretation of the "narrow gate" has its merits, it is essential to be wary of how it can be used to justify extreme beliefs and behaviours. Embracing the passage as an encouragement to take the middle road, supported by principles of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, offers a balanced, compassionate, and inclusive path that navigates the complexities of life without falling into the traps of extremism. This perspective not only aligns with the teachings of many wisdom traditions but also promotes a healthier, more sustainable approach to spiritual and moral development.
Comments