It is because of my wretchedness that I am 'I.' It is on account of the wretchedness of the universe that, in a sense, God is 'I' (that is to say a person). [p.83]
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Personal identity arises from wretchedness, and similarly, God is personified due to the wretchedness of the universe.
- In plain terms
- I am an individual because of suffering, just as God is seen as a person because the world suffers.
- What can you take from it?
- Suffering defines both personal identity and the human concept of God.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is identity rooted in suffering?
- Why do we perceive God as a person?
Another view
This view equates identity with misery which may not apply to all experiences.
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