I cannot conceive of a God who rewards and punishes his creatures, or has a will of the type of which we are conscious in ourselves. An individual who should survive his physical death is also beyond my comprehension, nor do I wish it otherwise; such notions are for the fears or absurd egoism of feeble souls.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Einstein expresses skepticism toward a personal God who judges or rewards humans, viewing such notions as products of fear or ego.
- In plain terms
- He does not believe in a God who punishes or rewards people.
- What can you take from it?
- Religious ideas of reward and punishment reflect human fear.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What kind of god do you imagine?
- Do you fear divine judgment?
Another view
This stance dismisses core beliefs held by many faithful people.
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