Henry B. Eyring: 'Every child of Heavenly Father born in the world is given at birth, as a free gift, the Light of Christ.'
Every child of Heavenly Father born in the world is given at birth, as a free gift, the Light of Christ.
The quote by Henry B. Eyring, "Every child of Heavenly Father born in the world is given at birth, as a free gift, the Light of Christ," holds a profound meaning and highlights the importance of a fundamental aspect of our existence. In a straightforward interpretation, Eyring implies that every individual, regardless of their background or circumstances, is born with an innate spiritual light within them. This light, known as the Light of Christ, serves as a guiding force, a gift from a higher power, which can lead us towards truth, goodness, and love. It is a constant presence, always accessible to us, helping us navigate the complexities of life.The significance of this concept lies in its universality. Eyring asserts that every child of Heavenly Father, which encompasses all of humanity, is bestowed with this divine light at birth. It implies that each person, irrespective of their beliefs or affiliations, carries within them a spark of divinity. This notion has profound implications for how we view and interact with others.Now, let's delve deeper and introduce an unexpected philosophical concept into the mix - the concept of existentialism. Existentialism, a school of thought that gained prominence in the 20th century, advocates for individual freedom, subjective experience, and personal responsibility. At first glance, it may appear that existentialism and the notion of the Light of Christ are incompatible due to their differing perspectives on spirituality and the self. However, a closer examination unravels intriguing parallels and divergences between the two.Existentialism emphasizes the individual's subjective experience and their responsibility to create meaning and purpose in life. It places immense importance on personal freedom and the absence of external constructs determining one's existence. In contrast, the Light of Christ can be seen as a constant, external force embedded within us, guiding and influencing our lives. While existentialism may argue that meaning and purpose are self-constructed, the concept of the Light of Christ suggests that there is an inherent purpose and direction to our lives, derived from a higher power.However, this apparent contrast between existentialism and the Light of Christ can also be viewed as complementary rather than contradictory. Existentialism recognizes the individual as the ultimate arbiter of their life's meaning, which aligns with the notion of personal agency within the Light of Christ. The Light of Christ does not strip individuals of their freedom to choose and determine their own paths but offers a spiritual compass to navigate life's ambiguities.Moreover, existentialism also places a significant emphasis on human interconnectedness and the responsibility to create an authentic existence in the face of an absurd universe. This notion resonates with the concept of our shared spiritual light. If we accept that every individual possesses the Light of Christ within them, then there exists a fundamental interconnectedness among humanity. Understanding this interconnectedness can foster empathy, compassion, and a sense of shared responsibility towards one another.In conclusion, the quote by Henry B. Eyring encapsulates the idea that every child of Heavenly Father is gifted with the Light of Christ at birth. This universal spiritual light serves as a guiding force, leading individuals towards truth, goodness, and love. Introducing the philosophical concept of existentialism offers both contrasting and complementary perspectives, highlighting the importance of personal agency, interconnectedness, and the search for meaning and purpose in life. Ultimately, the quote challenges us to recognize the divine spark within ourselves and others, promoting a deeper understanding of our shared humanity.