Wednesday, July 5, 2017

Faith is Not Belief

Alan Watts

“The reality which corresponds to “God” and “eternal life” is honest, above-board, plain, and open for all to see. But the seeing requires a correction of mind, just as clear vision sometimes requires a correction of the eyes. The discovery of this reality is hindered rather than helped by belief, whether one believes in God or believes in atheism.

“We must here make a clear distinction between belief and Faith, because, in general practice, belief has come to mean a state of mind which is almost the opposite of faith. Belief, as I use the word here, is the insistence that the truth of what one would ‘lief’ or wish it to be. The believer will open his mind to the truth on condition that it fits in with his preconceived ideas and wishes. Faith, on the other hand, is an unreserved opening of the mind to the Truth, whatever it may turn out to be. Faith has no preconceptions, it is a plunge into the unknown. Belief clings, but faith lets go.”

The Wisdom of Insecurity

1 comment:

  1. When A.W. hits on one he really nails it. I have often thought it would be interesting to explore the difference between belief and faith. Most of the distinctions I have seen don't seem to do them justice. The description here is both provocative and right on the mark. PW

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