Spinoza’s Critique of Prejudices and Miracles as a Basis for establishing the vera religio: a rugged Trail

In this paper the author aims to show Spinoza’s strategy to pursue one of the goals of his thought, that is to separate philosophy and theology. The path is twofold: the first one is the radical critique of prejudices and miracles; the second one is the establishment of a vera religio based on fides universalis, inscribed in the hearts of all people and devoid of any historical crystallization or “sect,” as Spinoza defines all historical religions. Both ways are problematic. The first step implies a return to rationalism and a suspension of his method of interpretation of Scripture by sola Scriptura; the second one ends with a practical resolution, which presents a difficulty – or even a paradox – in the economy of Spinoza’s philosophical system.