Origen: 'Now our whole activity is devoted to God, and our whole life, since we are bent on progress in divine things.'

Now our whole activity is devoted to God, and our whole life, since we are bent on progress in divine things.

The quote by Origen, "Now our whole activity is devoted to God, and our whole life, since we are bent on progress in divine things," speaks to the notion of a life dedicated to spiritual growth and the pursuit of divine knowledge. It emphasizes the idea that every aspect of our existence should be centered around God and the continuous advancement of our understanding of the divine. This quote holds great importance as it urges individuals to prioritize their relationship with the divine over worldly pursuits.In a straightforward interpretation, Origen's quote can be seen as a call to immerse ourselves in a life of devotion and faith. This entails aligning our actions, thoughts, and intentions with a higher purpose – the pursuit of divine wisdom and the growth of our spiritual selves. Such a perspective encourages believers to introspect, analyze their behaviors, and ensure that their daily activities are in line with their spiritual goals.Interestingly, Origen's quote can also be linked to the philosophical concept of existentialism. Existentialism posits that individuals hold the responsibility to create the meaning and purpose of their own lives. It emphasizes the significance of personal choice, freedom, and the authentic pursuit of self-actualization. Though seemingly disparate from a religious perspective, existentialism intertwines with the quote by challenging us to consider the role of individual progress in the realm of divine matters.While Origen's quote implores us to dedicate ourselves entirely to God, existentialism reminds us of the personal agency we possess in shaping our spiritual journeys. It encourages believers to actively engage in the pursuit of divine knowledge and not merely rely on external influences or institutions to dictate their spiritual growth. By blending these two seemingly contrasting concepts, a nuanced understanding emerges – one that encompasses both the importance of devotion to God and the personal responsibility in seeking spiritual progress.In comparing the two, it becomes evident that Origen's quote offers a more externalized perspective, emphasizing devotion and surrender to a higher power. On the other hand, existentialism presents an internalized approach that emphasizes individual choice and responsibility. However, these two ideas need not clash but can instead work symbiotically in helping individuals engage in a more meaningful and transformative spiritual journey.In conclusion, the quote by Origen underscores the significance of leading a life devoted to God. It challenges individuals to center their activities, thoughts, and intentions on divine matters while continually seeking growth in their relationship with the divine. By incorporating the unexpected lens of existentialism, we not only reinforce the importance of personal choice and responsibility in spiritual pursuit but also uncover a harmonious coexistence of both concepts. Ultimately, the quote by Origen urges believers to embark on an ever-evolving journey towards a deeper understanding of the divine, supported by their personal agency and unwavering dedication.