Mary Astell: 'God is His own Design and End, and that there is no other Worthy of Him.'

God is His own Design and End, and that there is no other Worthy of Him.

In her profound statement, Mary Astell asserts that God is both His own creator and the ultimate purpose for existence, asserting that no other entity is worthy of Him. This quote encapsulates the belief that God is infinitely unique and transcendent, beyond any human understanding or comparison. Astell beautifully emphasizes that God's nature and significance surpass any conceivable value or purpose that mortals might ascribe to Him. This concept echoes the fundamental idea of theism, which posits that God exists as the self-existent Being, whose existence is not dependent on any external factors.While Astell's quote encapsulates a profound truth about the nature of God, it also opens a door to explore an unexpected philosophical concept - that of comparative worthiness. When we consider the idea that nothing is worthy of God except Himself, it raises intriguing questions about how we determine worth, who or what can be considered 'worthy,' and how we can compare different values or entities.In many philosophical and theological traditions, worthiness is often associated with qualities such as moral virtue, excellence, or importance. For instance, humans may be considered worthy based on their ethical conduct, achievements, or contributions to society. Yet, according to Astell's perspective, even the highest standards of worthiness established by human societies pale in comparison to the divine essence of God.To further explore this idea, let's consider the contrasting concept of unworthiness. If nothing is worthy of God except Himself, then it follows that anything other than God is inherently unworthy in comparison. This notion sets the stage for a philosophical contemplation on human nature and the inherent limitations that prevent us from being worthy of God.Human beings are inherently flawed and imperfect, subject to moral failings and limited in our capacity for understanding. While we can strive for goodness and moral virtue, we inevitably fall short of the divine standard set by God Himself. This realization not only humbles us but also underscores the vast difference between the human and the divine.Furthermore, Astell's quote challenges us to reflect on our tendency to ascribe worth based on arbitrary criteria. In our daily lives, we often assign value to things, people, or experiences based on measurable factors such as wealth, status, or success. Astell's assertion invites us to question the validity of such judgments and reminds us of the ultimate worthiness that can only be found in the divine.In contemplating the meaning and significance of Astell's quote, we are compelled to reframe our understanding of worthiness and broaden our perspective beyond the limited confines of human determination. It calls for a recognition of God's absolute uniqueness, infinite nature, and intrinsic worth that is beyond comparison.At its core, Mary Astell's quote serves as a profound reminder of the unfathomable majesty and superiority of God. It invites us to reflect on our relationships with the divine and reorient our understanding of worthiness in light of His transcendence. Ultimately, this contemplation fosters a sense of humility, reverence, and awe, as we recognize that our worth is but a mere reflection of the divine worthiness that resides in God alone.