Huston Smith

Date of Birth: May 31, 1919

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: December 30, 2016

Biography

Huston Smith was a renowned American religious studies scholar and theologian, widely respected for his extensive work on the world’s religions. Born to missionary parents in China, Smith returned to the United States where he pursued his academic career. He earned his Bachelor of Arts from Central Methodist University and later completed his Ph.D. in Philosophy at the University of Chicago. Smith’s most influential work, “The World’s Religions,” originally published in 1958 under the title “The Religions of Man,” has been a seminal text in comparative religion for decades. He authored numerous other books and articles, contributing significantly to the understanding and appreciation of global religious traditions. Throughout his career, Smith taught at several prestigious institutions, including MIT, Syracuse University, and the University of California, Berkeley. His holistic and empathetic approach to studying religion emphasized the underlying unity of spiritual beliefs, fostering greater interfaith understanding. Smith was also known for his engaging documentaries and appearances on television programs, where he brought his insights to a broader audience. His legacy continues to influence scholars, students, and spiritual seekers around the world.

5 Interesting Facts about Huston Smith

1. Huston Smith was born to missionary parents in Suzhou, China.

2. His book “The World’s Religions” has sold over two million copies worldwide.

3. Smith was a practicing Methodist but explored and practiced aspects of other religions, including Vedanta Hinduism and Zen Buddhism.

4. He appeared in the Bill Moyers’ PBS series “The Wisdom of Faith with Huston Smith.”

5. Smith was awarded the National Humanities Medal by President George W. Bush in 2004.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Huston Smith

1. “The goal of spiritual life is not altered states, but altered traits.”

2. “If we take the world’s enduring religions at their best, we discover the distilled wisdom of the human race.”

3. “The most powerful moral influence is example.”

4. “Each religion brings something unique to the table.”

5. “We are not human beings having a spiritual experience; we are spiritual beings having a human experience.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Huston Smith’s net worth was estimated to be around $1 million, primarily from book sales, speaking engagements, and teaching positions.