Faith Seeking Understanding - 1021 Words

Faith Seeking Understanding - St. Anselm The most striking theme in Anselms Proslogion, or faith seeking understanding, is the idea that in order to prove Gods existence one must first have faith in Him, and only then will one be able to truly understand and appreciate Gods existence. Anselm argues for this eloquently, I do not seek to understand that I may believe, but I believe in order to understand. For this also I believe, that unless I believed, I should not understand (Ch.1 Proslogion). Let us now investigate what Anselm means by this, what led him to his line of reasoning, why we should believe him that this is the right way of going about proving Gods existence, and finally, raise some serious objections against his†¦show more content†¦Absolutely not. As mentioned in the opening of this paper, what is striking most about faith seeking understanding is the fundamental assumption it makes, but more importantly, the implications and unique perspective the follow f rom it. Anselms thesis changes the way we view the relationship between reason and faith. Just as an effect always follows a cause, we are liable to think that faith always follows reason. But the relationship between faith and reason, Anselm implicitly argues, does not necessarily have to abide by this one-way directional line of thinking. In fact, is it not the case that most philosophers and people in general start out with an intuition about something, and then try to work backwards and see if they can justify it? Anselm is simply doing what most of us already do, but in his case he is being intellectually honest and brave by explicitly stating such an approach, especially when it comes to a sensitive and important topic like the existence of God. Faith, Anselm wants to argue, is the principle driving force and origin upon reason is founded upon. Reason is simply a tool, that is, a means to an end, to understanding Gods existence and infinite grace. Though I find Anselm s argument unique for its bold and intriguing perspective, I do not agree with his approach. It is one thing to be personally satisfied of ones faith simply on the basis of their own faith, but it is quite aShow MoreRelatedWhy Theology Is Faith Seeking Understanding2307 Words   |  10 Pagestheology as ‘faith seeking understanding’? When looking at the subject of theology as ‘faith seeking understanding’ one must first have an understanding of what theology and faith are. This understanding will then allow one to look at the question of what it means to see theology as faith seeking to understand God. One must also look at what comes first; ones understanding of God and who He is, thus leading one to faith, or a faith which then leads one to seek to know and understand God. Faith can neverRead MoreSpirituality of Arab Heritage: Review of Related Literature1806 Words   |  7 Pagesï » ¿Spirituality of Arab Heritage Review of Related Literature Understanding of spirituality of Arab heritage in the context of healthcare provision and nursing can be best understood from a trans-cultural perspective, wherein healthcare providers are not only knowledgeable about specific cultures that they would most likely interact with on a regular basis, but they must be also culturally competent to interact and provide care to people who could belong to these diverse cultural groups. Indeed,Read MoreThe s Belief System A Worldview1744 Words   |  7 Pagessystem a worldview is developed. This is reflective of the religion an individual associates with. This religion, gives meaning to life, allowing one to gain an understanding of the world. Since this understanding can be interpreted in various ways, people develop differing worldviews. 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