Alan Watts: 'And the attitude of faith is the very opposite of clinging to belief, of holding on.'

And the attitude of faith is the very opposite of clinging to belief, of holding on.

In the world of philosophy, countless ideas and concepts have been explored to unravel the mysteries of life and existence. Amongst the great thinkers of our time, Alan Watts, with his profound wisdom, offers us an intriguing quote that sparks the imagination and challenges conventional understanding. He asserts, "And the attitude of faith is the very opposite of clinging to belief, of holding on." At its core, this quote encapsulates the essence of faith, emphasizing its fundamental divergence from rigid belief systems.To comprehend the true meaning and significance of this quote, it is essential to unpack its words, allowing their depth to reach beyond the surface. Watts proposes that faith and belief are starkly different, opposing forces. Faith, with its inherent openness, suggests a willingness to embrace the unknown and the uncertain. It asks us to relinquish our grip on preconceived notions and liberated ourselves from the shackles of dogma. Conversely, clinging to belief represents an attachment to fixed ideas, limiting our capacity for growth and obstructing the exploration of new possibilities.In this context, faith encourages a state of being characterized by curiosity, wonder, and a yearning for knowledge. It beckons us to venture into uncharted territories, devoid of fear or hesitation. Embracing faith permits us to embark on a continuous journey of discovery, as we remain receptive to the ceaseless flow of experience and wisdom the world has to offer. It is an openness that allows us to evolve and adapt to the ever-changing nature of existence, just as a river adapts its course to the terrain it encounters.In contrast, rigidity encapsulated by belief is akin to a fortress enclosing our minds. When we become attached to a specific set of beliefs, we close ourselves off from alternative perspectives, diminishing our ability to understand and connect with the vast array of human experiences. As we cling to our convictions, we may inadvertently build walls that insulate us from the richness and diversity of the world around us.Nevertheless, while the divergence between faith and belief is evident, it is worth noting that they are not inherently incompatible; rather, they exist on a spectrum. Within the realms of faith, beliefs can be seen as stepping stones, guiding us through the uncharted territories we encounter. These beliefs serve as beacons, illuminating our path until we are ready to transcend them, using them as springboards to reach new heights of understanding.Considering this perspective, we can appreciate the interconnectedness of these concepts. Faith and belief, when employed in harmony, enable us to navigate both the known and the unknown, holding hands as we navigate the intricate labyrinth of existence. As we venture forth, our faith guides us to transcend the boundaries imposed by belief, reminding us to remain open, flexible, and continuously curious.Ultimately, the quote by Watts speaks to the importance of cultivating an attitude of faith. It invites us to question, explore, and challenge our own beliefs continually. By doing so, we embark on a transformative journey, transcending the constraints of what we think we know and embracing the infinite possibilities the universe presents. In the face of uncertainty, it is through faith that we find solace and the courage to venture into the mystic realms of knowledge and self-discovery.In conclusion, Alan Watts' profound words remind us of the fundamental distinction between faith and belief. Faith embodies an openness and innate curiosity, urging us to let go of rigid dogmas and embrace the unknown. On the contrary, holding onto belief stifles growth and restricts our ability to connect with diverse perspectives. However, faith and belief can coexist harmoniously, serving as catalysts for personal evolution and understanding. By embracing an attitude of faith, we transcend the limits of our own beliefs, paving the way for boundless exploration and enlightenment. So, let us release our grip on certainty and embark on a wondrous journey fueled by faith and curiosity.