John Updike: 'Religion enables us to ignore nothingness and get on with the jobs of life.'

Religion enables us to ignore nothingness and get on with the jobs of life.

John Updike once famously said, "Religion enables us to ignore nothingness and get on with the jobs of life." At first glance, this quote seems to convey a simple idea: religion provides us with a framework through which we can find purpose and meaning, allowing us to focus on the practical aspects of our existence. However, upon closer examination, this quote opens up a world of philosophical exploration and reflection.To understand the significance of Updike's words, it is essential to grasp the concept of nothingness. In this context, nothingness represents the void left when we confront the uncertainties and existential questions that life presents. It is a state of mind where we confront mortality, the vastness of the universe, and the ultimate meaning of our own existence. Such thoughts can be overwhelming, leaving individuals feeling lost, insignificant, and without purpose.This is where religion steps in. It offers us a structured belief system that allows us to make sense of the world around us and our place within it. It provides answers to profound questions, such as the purpose of life, the nature of good and evil, and the existence of a higher power. By embracing religious teachings, individuals can navigate the uncertainty of nothingness and find comfort in the knowledge that their lives have a greater purpose.Moreover, religion empowers us to focus on the "jobs of life." The term "jobs of life" refers to the practical tasks and responsibilities that occupy our daily routines. From work and education to family and social interactions, these jobs demand our attention and energy. By enabling us to ignore nothingness, religion allows us to channel our efforts and concentrate on these important aspects.However, it is important to consider an unexpected philosophical concept that challenges the notion of religion as a mere distraction from nothingness. This concept is existentialism—an existential philosophy that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and the responsibility to create meaning in life. Existentialism argues that each individual must face the existential void head-on and create their own purpose and values, rather than relying on religious or external systems.From an existentialist perspective, relying on religion to ignore nothingness may be seen as an evasion of personal responsibility. It suggests that individuals who turn to religion are avoiding the difficult task of confronting life's inherent uncertainties, which are central to the human condition. However, existentialism also acknowledges the subjective nature of existence and acknowledges that different individuals may find solace and meaning in various belief systems.In this light, the comparison between religion and existentialism raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of meaning, purpose, and how individuals navigate the sometimes tumultuous journey of life. It challenges us to examine the balance between finding comfort and guidance within a religious framework and embracing the responsibility to create our own meaningful existence.In conclusion, John Updike's quote, "Religion enables us to ignore nothingness and get on with the jobs of life," captures the idea that religion provides a framework through which individuals can find solace, purpose, and meaning. It allows us to focus on the practical aspects of our existence and navigate the uncertainties and existential questions that can be overwhelming. However, the contrasting concept of existentialism reminds us of the importance of personal responsibility in creating meaning and values. Ultimately, it is up to individuals to reconcile these perspectives and find their own path in the search for purpose and fulfillment.