Thomas Hardy: 'The main object of religion is not to get a man into heaven, but to get heaven into him.'

The main object of religion is not to get a man into heaven, but to get heaven into him.

In this thought-provoking quote by Thomas Hardy, he challenges the conventional understanding of religion and its purpose. According to Hardy, the main aim of religion is not merely to secure one's place in the afterlife, but rather to transform the individual's inner being, to instill heavenly virtues and qualities within them. This profound perspective sheds new light on the significance of religious belief and practice, urging us to look beyond the traditional notion of salvation and instead focus on the transformative power of spirituality in our earthly existence.Religion, in its broadest sense, offers individuals a framework to navigate the complexities of life, providing guidance and meaning. For centuries, different religious traditions have sought to address fundamental questions about the purpose of human existence and the nature of the Divine. Many view religion as a path to attain salvation – whether it be reaching paradise in the afterlife, achieving enlightenment, or transcending worldly suffering. These notions of salvation have long been central to religious teachings, shaping the beliefs and practices of countless individuals.However, Hardy's quote presents an intriguing deviation from this conventional understanding. Rather than emphasizing the ultimate goal of reaching heaven, it redirects our attention to the process of internal transformation. By suggesting that the main objective of religion is to "get heaven into" a person, Hardy invites us to consider how religion can profoundly impact our earthly lives and shape our character, values, and actions.This notion resonates with the belief that spirituality should be a transformative force, influencing the way we conduct ourselves in our day-to-day lives. It suggests that the true essence of religion lies not in rituals or observances alone, but in the profound effect it has on our perspective, behavior, and relationships. The idea of "getting heaven into" us unveils the potential for religious faith to inspire compassion, empathy, kindness, and a deep sense of interconnectedness with all beings.To dive deeper into this concept, it is fascinating to explore the philosophical underpinnings of Hardy's quote. One might draw connections to the philosophical concept of "theosis" or "divinization" found in certain religious traditions, particularly within Orthodox Christianity. Theosis encompasses the belief that humans can partake in the divine nature, that through a transformative process, individuals can become increasingly united with God and exhibit godly virtues.Theosis, like Hardy's idea, emphasizes the importance of inner transformation and the integration of heavenly qualities within ourselves. It encourages individuals to strive for virtues such as love, humility, patience, and forgiveness, aiming to align their actions and thoughts with the divine will. The underlying philosophy suggests that the purpose of religious practice is not solely aimed at securing a place in heaven but is a continuous journey towards becoming more godlike in our character and conduct.By emphasizing the significance of "getting heaven into" oneself, Hardy's quote provides a fresh perspective on the purpose of religion. It challenges us to reflect on our religious journeys and consider whether we are solely focused on external rewards or if we are actively cultivating virtues and qualities that reflect the heavenly realm. This introspection invites us to engage more deeply in our religious practice, seeking not only intellectual understanding but also personal and moral growth.In conclusion, Thomas Hardy's quote redirects our attention from the traditional understanding of religion solely as a means to secure a place in heaven. Instead, it urges us to recognize the transformative power of spirituality and focus on integrating heavenly virtues within ourselves. By emphasizing the importance of internal transformation, Hardy invites us to reflect on the central purpose of our religious beliefs and practices. This philosophical shift encourages us to engage in a deeper exploration of the essence of religion, prompting personal growth and a more meaningful connection with the divine.