A Lesson in Analogy or Spiritual Thinking: Matzoh vs. Communion Wafer
Spiritual thinking is based in analogy rather than logic. In common parlance and conventional schooling analogy is presented as: This is to this as that is to that, focusing on points of similarity between two ideas or objects. In spiritual thinking analogic thinking seeks out points of similarity and points of differences. Unlike conventional analogic thinking, we do not rely on logic to reach a conclusion. Rather we look to discover wholeness. Conclusionary thinking is anti-spiritual, though necessary for navigating correctly in a mechanical way to carry out daily functions.
An example of analogy can be found with the the Passover matzo and Catholic communion wafer. Both share similarities and differences. Each reflects a relationship to God. The matzoh is unleavened bread that the Israelites (5-10%) made in haste as they fled Egypt - the land of material attachments, hedonistic pleasure, and enslavement (all mutually related). In contrast to the matzoh, leavened bread, reflects material attachment and materialism in general. We commonly refer to money as “bread.” Unleavened means detachment from materialism and attachment to Spirit. Eating unleavened matzoh is the reminder to keep and affirm that attachment. In Christianity, the thin wafer reflects the body of Christ, which, when consumed concretizes the conviction and devotion to God and Spirit.
As to the differences between the two: It is quite evident simply by looking at them. Their appearance is markedly different, one from the other. Even so, by seeing them differently, and the same, we have an understanding of the wholeness. Taken together they reflect the whole, that is, how the quality and quantity of something can be read together. Here in the matzoh and communion wafer we can see how the two groups share something collaboratively, while retaining their own individuality. Understanding the sharing in common can help bridge conflict brought about by emphasizing all too much their differences.