In the affairs of this world, men are saved not by faith, but by the want of it.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This quote delves into the intricate relationship between faith and human behavior within the context of worldly affairs. At first glance, it appears paradoxical, challenging the conventional understanding of salvation and faith. Let's dissect its meaning layer by layer.
"In the affairs of this world" suggests that the quote is addressing matters pertaining to the earthly realm, the tangible and practical aspects of human existence. It sets the stage for a discussion grounded in the realities of life, where decisions and actions carry weight and consequences.
The phrase "men are saved not by faith, but by the want of it" introduces a thought-provoking contrast. Traditionally, faith is perceived as a virtue, a guiding force that leads individuals towards salvation or redemption. However, the quote posits that salvation, in the context of worldly affairs, does not necessarily hinge on the presence of faith but rather on its absence – the "want" or lack thereof.
Here, "faith" encompasses not only religious belief but also trust, conviction, and confidence in one's principles or values. It represents a sense of certainty and assurance in the face of uncertainty and adversity. Conversely, the "want of faith" refers to doubt, skepticism, or wavering belief.
The crux of the quote lies in the idea that in navigating the complexities of worldly affairs, it is often the absence or deficiency of faith that propels individuals into action, prompting them to confront challenges, seek solutions, and strive for progress. In this sense, the absence of faith serves as a catalyst for change and growth.
Consider, for instance, the entrepreneur who embarks on a risky venture not because of unwavering faith in success but because of a restless dissatisfaction with the status quo, a hunger for innovation, and a willingness to take calculated risks. Or the activist who challenges societal norms and injustices fueled not solely by faith in an idealized future but by a profound discontent with the present reality and a relentless pursuit of justice.
Moreover, the quote suggests that the absence of faith can sometimes be a driving force for self-discovery and personal transformation. When individuals grapple with doubt and uncertainty, they are compelled to introspect, question their beliefs, and reassess their priorities. In this process of soul-searching, they may uncover hidden strengths, confront their fears, and ultimately emerge with a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.
However, it's crucial to acknowledge the nuanced interplay between faith and doubt in human experience. While the quote highlights the transformative potential of doubt and the absence of faith, it does not diminish the significance of faith itself. Faith, in its various forms, can provide solace, resilience, and a sense of purpose in the face of adversity. It can inspire acts of kindness, compassion, and selflessness that uplift individuals and communities alike.
Ultimately, the quote invites contemplation on the complex dynamics of belief and doubt, action and inaction, in the journey of navigating the world's intricacies. It challenges us to reconsider the role of faith not only as a source of salvation but also as a catalyst for growth, resilience, and self-discovery amidst the uncertainties of life.
Who said the quote?
The quote "In the affairs of this world, men are saved not by faith, but by the want of it." is often attributed to Benjamin Franklin (Bio / Quotes). Benjamin Franklin was an American statesman, writer, and inventor who played a key role in the founding of the United States.
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Is there a historical example that illustrates the message of the quote?
The quote "In the affairs of this world, men are saved not by faith, but by the want of it" reflects the idea that sometimes it is the lack of faith or certainty that prompts action and change. A historical example that illustrates this concept is the story of the German Reformation in the 16th century.
In the early 1500s, Europe was deeply entrenched in the practices of the Catholic Church, which wielded immense power and influence. The Church's authority was largely unchallenged, and many people accepted its doctrines and practices without question. However, this acceptance did not stem from a profound faith but rather from a lack of critical scrutiny or alternative views.
Martin Luther, a monk and scholar, became a key figure in challenging this status quo. His initial dissatisfaction with certain Church practices, such as the sale of indulgences (which were believed to reduce the punishment for sins), was not purely driven by faith but by a lack of faith in the Church's legitimacy and a growing conviction that reform was necessary. Luther's 95 Theses, posted in 1517, were not simply a call for reform but a manifestation of his doubt and questioning of established practices.
The ensuing Reformation movement led to significant religious, political, and social changes across Europe. Luther's doubts and criticisms, which stemmed from his lack of faith in the existing system, ignited a broader questioning of religious authority and inspired reform across the continent. The Reformation eventually led to the establishment of Protestantism and a dramatic reshaping of European Christianity.
This example illustrates the quote's message: it was not a profound faith in the existing religious order that brought about change but rather the lack of faith and the critical questioning of that order. The resulting transformation was driven by the desire to address perceived flaws and injustices in the system.
How can the quote be applied in a real-life scenario?
The quote "In the affairs of this world, men are saved not by faith, but by the want of it" can be applied to various real-life scenarios where change and progress occur not because of unwavering belief in the status quo but because of questioning and challenging it.
Consider the field of scientific innovation. Scientific progress often comes from a place of skepticism and the desire to prove or disprove existing theories. For example, the development of the theory of evolution by Charles Darwin was driven by a lack of faith in the then-dominant creationist views and an intense desire to understand the natural world more accurately. Darwin's doubts about the adequacy of the creationist explanations led him to conduct extensive research and develop a new theory that fundamentally changed the field of biology.
In everyday life, this concept can be applied to personal growth and decision-making. When faced with a challenging situation or an unsatisfactory condition, it is often a lack of faith in the current state of affairs that motivates individuals to seek improvement. For instance, if someone is unhappy in their career, it might be their dissatisfaction and lack of faith in their current job’s potential that drives them to explore new opportunities or develop new skills. This lack of faith in the status quo becomes a catalyst for taking action and pursuing change.
In both historical and personal contexts, the quote emphasizes that it is not the blind adherence to existing beliefs or conditions that leads to progress, but rather the critical questioning and dissatisfaction with them that can drive meaningful transformation.
Applying the quote to your life
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Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
