Origen: 'To him who, though by no means near the end, is yet advancing, He is the way; to him who has put off all that is dead He is the life.'

To him who, though by no means near the end, is yet advancing, He is the way; to him who has put off all that is dead He is the life.

The quote by Origen, 'To him who, though by no means near the end, is yet advancing, He is the way; to him who has put off all that is dead He is the life,' encompasses a profound meaning and holds great importance in navigating the journey of life. It acknowledges that the concept of the "way" or path is not solely reserved for those who are reaching the end, but rather it is an essential aspect for everyone who is constantly advancing. Furthermore, it highlights that by shedding all that is dead, be it limiting beliefs or stagnant habits, one can truly embrace the essence of life. This quote speaks to the idea that through continuous growth and shedding of our metaphorical dead weight, we can experience the true vitality and vibrancy that life has to offer.However, in exploring this quote at a deeper level, let us introduce the concept of existentialism. Existentialism is a philosophical outlook that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and responsibility as the defining aspects of human existence. It posits that individuals are in a constant state of becoming, shaping their own identities and creating meaning through their choices. By bringing this unexpected philosophical concept into the discussion, we can compare and contrast it with what Origen's quote conveys, thereby adding a layer of interest and complexity to our exploration.Origen's quote emphasizes the idea of constant advancement, indicating that the path or 'way' is not limited to those nearing the end of life. This aligns with the existentialist perspective, as existentialism also asserts that personal growth and self-development are ongoing processes throughout one's entire existence. Existentialists believe that life is a journey without a predetermined destination, and it is up to each individual to find and forge their own way. In this sense, Origen's quote and existentialism share a common thread: the importance of continuous advancement and personal growth.Where existentialism diverges from Origen's quote is in its emphasis on individual choice and responsibility. Existentialists argue that individuals have ultimate freedom to shape their own lives and create their own meanings. They believe that for one to truly embrace the 'way' or path, it requires taking full responsibility for one's actions and choices. This responsibility involves shedding societal expectations, acquired belief systems, and other forms of dead weight that may hinder one's authentic self-expression. In this sense, Origen's concept of putting off all that is dead can be seen as resonating with the existentialist notion of breaking free from external influences and normative societal structures.Ultimately, Origen's quote and existentialism converge in their emphasis on personal growth and shedding of what no longer serves us. They both celebrate the idea that life is a dynamic process, and one's authentic path involves constant advancement and evolution. By embracing this perspective, individuals can tap into their true vitality, purpose, and essence. Whether viewed through the lens of Origen's belief in Christ as the way or through the existentialist lens of personal freedom and responsibility, both perspectives offer valuable insights into navigating the complexities and wonders of the human experience.In conclusion, Origen's quote, 'To him who, though by no means near the end, is yet advancing, He is the way; to him who has put off all that is dead He is the life,' encapsulates the idea of continuous advancement and shedding of the non-essential aspects of life. Through this quote, we are reminded of the importance of personal growth and embracing the journey, regardless of one's proximity to the end. By introducing the concept of existentialism, we can further explore the themes of personal freedom, responsibility, and individual choice. Both perspectives highlight the transformative power of shedding what is dead and embracing a dynamic, authentic way of living. Whether one finds resonance in a spiritual or philosophical framework, the essence of Origen's quote invites us to embark on a personal quest for growth and vitality, inspiring us to forge our own unique paths towards a more fulfilling existence.