Mike Wooldridge explores the decision of the conscientious objector.

What drives the decision not to take up arms, often taken in the face of punishment, hostility and broken relationships? Show more

What is it in the sound of brass that appeals to our emotions so viscerally? And how it has become the chosen accompaniment to military life? Show more

Mark Tully considers the paradox that boundaries and controls can create a sense of freedom and creativity. Show more

Mark Tully draws on music and literature inspired by the concept of a "Creator Spirit" to ask if spiritual energy exists, where it might be found, and how we can tap into it. Show more

Mark Tully considers Abraham's legacy for Judaism, Islam and Christianity with the help of composer, Steve Reich and video artist, Beryl Korot. Show more

Dr Nabil Mustapha, who was raised in the Baha'i faith and practised as a surgeon worldwide, explores the idea that "the earth is but one country and we are all its citizens." Show more

Irma Kurtz considers how serendipity influences and moulds our lives in 'Happy Accidents'. Show more

Mike Wooldridge explores the universal principles that underlie all sacred art. Show more

Fergal Keane reflects on the value of anger. Is it a force for energy? The inspiration of great art and literature? Or the cause of destructive behaviour? Show more

Mark Tully wonders why so many people now talk about The Universe where they would once have spoken about God. Show more

Jonathan Charles considers the innocence of children and reflects on the charm of those adults who still retain something of the child within.

Mark Tully contemplates the secure environments we construct for our own protection, and the places of safety we yearn for within ourselves. Show more

When should we accept our lot and when should we rage against circumstances? Fergal Keane considers the notion that serenity comes when you trade expectations for acceptance. Show more

The benediction 'God Be In My Head' often forms part of funeral ceremonies. Tom Robinson, reflects upon how it's refrain resonates in our lives, both spiritually and in secular contexts. Show more

In Something Understood this week Mark Tully explores the physical and emotional upheaval of moving home. Show more

Mark Tully consider the impact of our mental attitude on situations, events and objects. The power of positive thinking has been drummed into us in recent years, but has the backlash begun?

Mark Tully presents a special edition of Something Understood from Westminster Abbey, which this month celebrates the 450th anniversary of its establishment as a collegiate church by Elizabeth I. Show more

Satish Kumar explores the difference between a tourist and a pilgrim. Show more

Mark Tully explores birds as symbols of spiritual hope. Soaring above the earth, for many poets and composers they have come to represent the soul, freed from the constraints of our earthly form. Show more

Our relationship to the figure of the mother is, of course, a recurring theme for artists. In this week’s edition of Something Understood the writer Sarah Cuddon ponders the "mother as muse". Show more