Pierre Teilhard de Chardin: 'He that will believe only what he can fully comprehend must have a long head or a very short creed.'

He that will believe only what he can fully comprehend must have a long head or a very short creed.

Title: Embracing the Boundless: Exploring the Depths of BeliefIntroduction:Pierre Teilhard de Chardin once remarked, "He that will believe only what he can fully comprehend must have a long head or a very short creed." This profound statement challenges our conventional notions of belief and raises important questions about the limits of human understanding. In this article, we will delve into the essence and significance of this quote, exploring how it challenges the boundaries of knowledge and introducing the intriguing concept of philosophical paradox.Summarizing the Quote:At its core, Teilhard de Chardin's quote urges us to transcend the limits of our intellect when it comes to matters of belief. It suggests that those who rigidly adhere to faith only when it aligns with their complete understanding often limit themselves to a narrow worldview. By emphasizing the importance of unfathomable truths and mysteries, the quote encourages us to expand our perspectives and adopt a more open-minded approach, free from the constraints of intellectual comprehension.Beyond Comprehension:To truly appreciate the depth of this quote, we can examine it through the lens of a philosophical concept called 'paradox.' A paradox is a proposition that seems contradictory or absurd at first glance, but upon deeper reflection, reveals profound truths. Just as paradoxes challenge our conventional thinking, Teilhard de Chardin's quote invites us to embrace ambiguity and uncertainty, realizing that there are aspects of life that may elude complete comprehension.The Paradox of Existence:One such paradox we can consider is the enigma of existence itself. As humans, we are often preoccupied with understanding the meaning of life, the origins of the universe, and our place within it. Yet, these existential questions defy complete comprehension. The more we delve into our quest for answers, the clearer it becomes that there are realms beyond the reach of our cognitive abilities. Teilhard de Chardin's quote reminds us that we shouldn't let our limited understanding prevent us from embracing the vastness and intricacy of existence.The Power of Mystery in Belief:When we acknowledge the limitations of our comprehension, we open ourselves to the beautiful and transformative power of mystery. Mystery is the fertile ground where belief flourishes, enabling us to behold concepts that extend beyond our rational faculties. By embracing the inexplicable, we allow room for wonder, awe, and a sense of the divine. Teilhard de Chardin's quote suggests that faith, bolstered by the acceptance of the unknown, can ignite a lifelong journey of exploration and growth.The Freedom of Uncontained Belief:In a world often dominated by rationality and empiricism, Teilhard de Chardin's message encourages us to liberate ourselves from restrictive intellectual boundaries. Allowing ourselves to believe in ideas that may defy complete comprehension liberates us from the constraints of a narrow creed. It invites us to expand our consciousness, embrace the vast tapestry of human experience, and cultivate a deeper connection with the intangible aspects of life.Conclusion:Pierre Teilhard de Chardin's quote reverberates with the realization that belief transcends the limits of our comprehension. It challenges us to cultivate an open mind, free from the confines of definitive understanding. When we acknowledge the power of mystery, paradox, and the unfathomable, we allow our beliefs to flourish and guide us towards a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Let us embrace the boundless and embark on a journey where belief transcends the confines of comprehension.