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Does existentialism pose a threat to traditional theological beliefs?

Deliah Laurencot

Existentialism is a philosophy that explores the human condition and the meaning of life. It is a way of thinking that stresses individual freedom, responsibility, and the importance of personal choice. The core tenet of existentialism is that existence precedes essence, which means that humans are not born with a predetermined purpose or meaning in life, but rather must create it for themselves.

This existentialist perspective can pose a challenge to traditional theological beliefs, which often emphasize the existence of a divine being or purpose that is predetermined for human beings. Many theological doctrines state that God has a plan for each individual, which is predetermined from the moment of their creation, and that humans are expected to follow this plan in order to achieve a fulfilling life.

However, existentialism challenges this notion by insisting that we are responsible for creating our own meaning in life. We must take ownership of our existence and make choices that align with our values and beliefs. This can be a source of conflict with traditional theological beliefs, which often prioritize obedience and submission to a higher power above individual autonomy.

For example, in the Christian faith, the concept of original sin posits that humans are inherently flawed and must seek redemption in order to achieve salvation. This doctrine places a heavy emphasis on the authority and will of God, rather than human agency. However, an existentialist perspective would argue that individuals must take responsibility for their own existence and take action to define their own purpose and meaning in life, rather than relying on the guidance or direction of a divine authority.

Moreover, existentialism challenges the idea of an afterlife or divine reward for good behavior. Instead, it emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment and making decisions that reflect our personal beliefs and values. This can be in conflict with traditional theological beliefs, which often emphasize the importance of behaving in a certain way in order to avoid punishment or earn divine favor.

In conclusion, while existentialism poses a challenge to traditional theological beliefs, it can also serve as a complementary perspective that encourages individuals to take ownership of their existence and define their own purpose and meaning in life. By emphasizing the importance of personal agency and responsibility, existentialism can help individuals gain a deeper understanding of their values and beliefs, and make choices that reflect these principles.