Faith is an act of a finite being who is grasped by, and turned to, the infinite

Faith is an act of a finite being who is grasped by, and turned to, the infinite

Paul Tillich, a renowned theologian and philosopher, once said that “faith is an act of a finite being who is grasped by, and turned to, the infinite.” This profound statement encapsulates Tillich’s understanding of faith as a dynamic and transformative relationship between the finite human self and the infinite divine reality.

Tillich believed that faith is not simply a set of beliefs or doctrines that one passively accepts, but rather an active engagement with the ultimate reality that transcends human understanding. For Tillich, faith is a response to the infinite mystery of existence that beckons the finite human being to reach beyond the limitations of their finite existence and connect with the infinite source of meaning and purpose.

In Tillich’s view, faith is not a blind leap into the unknown, but a conscious decision to trust in the ultimate ground of being that underlies all of reality. It is an act of courage and commitment that requires the individual to confront their own finitude and embrace the infinite with openness and humility.

Tillich’s concept of faith as an act of turning to the infinite also highlights the transformative power of faith in the life of the believer. By turning towards the infinite, the finite human being is able to transcend their own limitations and experience a sense of wholeness and unity with the ultimate reality. This act of turning to the infinite allows the individual to find meaning and purpose in a world that often seems chaotic and meaningless.

Furthermore, Tillich’s understanding of faith as an act of turning to the infinite emphasizes the relational nature of faith. Faith is not a solitary endeavor, but a communal practice that connects individuals to one another and to the divine reality that unites all of creation. Through faith, human beings are able to experience a sense of belonging and interconnectedness that transcends the boundaries of individual identity.