As growing polarization and divisiveness magnifies our collective sense of uncertainty and anxiety, Emily Maroutian’s voice offers a symphony of understanding, compassion, and unity. An award-winning author, philosopher, and a master of self-discovery, Maroutian spends her time navigating the harsh realities of self-actualization to bring wisdom and comfort to those who seek to heal themselves.
Born in Soviet Armenia in 1984, Maroutian developed a passion for philosophy and writing from a young age. She entered the world of publishing with her first existential novella “Disconnected” at the age of 19. After falling ill in her early 20s, she made the decision to abandon her philosophy degree and focus on healing. Soon after, she started a publishing company and directed her efforts on writing books that not only stimulated the minds of readers but also nurtured their emotional well-being.
“I think that’s when the switch happened,” Maroutian reflected. “I went from philosopher to healer. It took me a few years before I began to incorporate all of it into my work. It’s now about healing the mind, body, and spirit because none of it is separate from our very human experience.”
Her comprehensive approach has proven effective in addressing interconnected yet seemingly dissimilar issues. Since the author has spent over a decade devoting herself to the independent study of philosophy and psychology, both subjects have contributed significantly to the development of her distinctive style of writing. And with fourteen books to her name, she has since refined her expertise and mastered her craft.
Sixteen years after leaving college, Maroutian has officially returned to higher education. She is currently enriching her already considerable knowledge base by pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Comparative Religion at California State University of Chico. This latest academic pursuit is more than an addition to her credentials; it’s a strategic step towards her mission to foster global understanding and peace.
“We have bought into the lie that our differences justify our separateness,” Maroutian explained. This misconception, she argues, is shaping our interactions and our attitudes towards one another. Furthermore, she pointed out that this perspective impacts our self-perception, leading to feelings of isolation. “By concentrating on the otherness of the other, we feed into the energy of separation. This not only affects the way we treat others, but it also leaves us feeling isolated and lonely,” she underlined, emphasizing the importance of fostering our connection and shared humanity.
Maroutian’s journey into the study of comparative religion is a natural extension of her life’s work. By exploring the world’s faiths, she seeks to unearth the common threads that bind humanity, transcending cultural and religious divides. Her goal is not merely to understand these systems of belief but to use that understanding to highlight the shared values and aspirations that unite us all.
“Philosophy and religion are deep-seated in our design. We’re not just biological creatures, we’re also spiritual creatures,” she observed. “We want more than just to satisfy our body’s desires and needs. We want to fill our spirit, our soul. We need connection, love, fulfillment, and purpose. We want something more, something bigger. And religion is most-often our answer to fill that spiritual need.”
With an already established reputation for transforming complex emotional and philosophical concepts into relatable wisdom, Maroutian’s foray into religious studies promises to enhance her ability to connect with a broader audience. Her work has consistently served as a bridge between knowledge and application, and now, armed with deeper insights into the world’s religions, she is poised to become an even more potent force for empathy and peace.
“I chose religion because it’s the foundation of a culture,” Maroutian clarified. “If you want to understand a people, you have to understand what they believe. And when you show others that you’ve taken the time to understand their religion or culture, it creates a sense of camaraderie.” The author then described a recent encounter with an Orthodox Jew at the grocery store, where they discussed the Mishnah, the Oral Torah. Although not Jewish herself, she mentioned her studies of the Torah and the Mishnah, which delighted the man greatly. By the end of their conversation, she was invited to seder dinner.
The account of using religion to connect with strangers didn’t stop there. Maroutian recalled, “Shortly after that, I went to visit my grandfather in the hospital. His nurse was a young Arab man. We struck up a conversation about the Arabic meaning of his name and I mentioned that I was studying the Quran for one of my classes. The entire energy of the room immediately shifted. It became lighter. He responded to me as if I was a long-lost sister. He even called me sister. His whole demeanor changed in that moment.”
Maroutian’s aim in sharing these seemingly minor encounters is to demonstrate the influence of connecting with others based on their values and beliefs, even if we don’t share them ourselves. Ultimately, her storytelling underscores a profound truth: it is through the fabric of our everyday exchanges that the tapestry of human connection is woven. Each story, no matter how small it may seem, is a testament to the power of understanding and empathy. By engaging with the diverse beliefs and values of those we encounter, we not only broaden our own perspectives but also bridge gaps that might otherwise divide us. This is where the seeds of transformation are sown—not in grandiose gestures, but in the quiet moments of mutual respect and recognition of our shared humanity. Through these narratives, Maroutian invites us to consider how our own interactions might be opportunities to foster unity and effectuate positive change in the world around us.
Maroutian’s literary contributions have always been more than just books; they are vessels carrying ideas that challenge, heal, connect, and inspire others. Her writing has the uncanny ability to resonate with the core of our being, reminding us of our shared humanity. As she delves deeper into comparative religion, her future works will undoubtedly reflect a richer tapestry of spiritual understanding, weaving narratives that promote unity in diversity.
As Maroutian continues her academic journey, her expanding knowledge base becomes a powerful tool in her mission to educate and unify. With every lecture attended and every book penned, she is crafting an informed vision for harmony that is deeply needed in today’s society. Her achievements are not just milestones but stepping stones towards a more peaceful world, where understanding reigns over conflict.
“When people ask me what is the point of studying religion I want to point to those two recent experiences and say THAT. That is the point,” Maroutian emphasized. “People feel seen. They feel heard. They feel validated. Their guard comes down. They become more open, more loving. When you show others that you see their humanity, they respond from that humanity. In a quick 5 to 10 minute conversation with both men I felt connected to them, and they to me. That is what changes the world. And that’s something anyone can do.”
In Emily Maroutian’s hands, the study of comparative religion is more than academic; it’s a key to unlocking the doors between us, inviting a dialogue of peace and respect. As she continues to grow and share her wisdom, we find in her a guiding light towards a world where our differences are celebrated as pathways to collective enlightenment.
Emily Maroutian’s Books can be found on Amazon and in online bookstores worldwide. You can follow her on Instagram at http://www.instagram.com/emaroutian
