SEX AND THE DEVIL'S WAGER

Fierce criticism of the concept of hell that advocates for Eastern religions and sexual enlightenment.

How can a just, loving God condemn sinners and nonbelievers to an eternity of pain and suffering in hell? The question is as old as the Bible, and Wilson isn’t the first to use it as the centerpiece for criticism against Abrahamic religions. However, Wilson sets himself apart in the response he lays out. With a background in martial arts and a deep interest in Eastern cultures, Wilson rejects the teachings of Christianity, Judaism and Islam as hypocritical to the point of being amoral. Instead, he advocates an embrace of Eastern spiritual philosophies, which have no concept of hell. Wilson pairs this with his other great passion: erotica. He believes that sexuality, and particularly women’s bodies, have historically been constrained by religious teachings. In hopes of turning this idea on its head, he presents sexuality as the most fulfilling way to embrace the spiritual realm. There are some off-putting moments in this strange, deeply personal book, from the author’s dictionary-busting writing style to the undertones of racism and misogyny that run throughout. What’s also disappointing is how unconvincing its assertions are despite all the passionate rhetoric. Believers will not reject their faith as fundamentally hypocritical; secularists will not intuitively find themselves drawn to Eastern religions; this book will not lead to a worldwide sexual revolution. Wilson sets ambitious goals for himself, but he consistently relies on incomplete, esoteric and objectionable arguments that are likely to alienate any reader at one point or another.

An ambitious book that doesn’t support its hefty arguments.