Have you ever wondered whether it’s possible to understand who or what God truly is? This age-old question is surprisingly addressed early on in The Spirits’ Book by Allan Kardec. Join us for a reflective journey from a Spiritist and accessible perspective.
Kardec’s question and the Superior Spirits’ response
Question 0003: Can man comprehend the inner nature of God?
Answer: “No. He lacks a sense for it.”
Though concise, this response invites a deep analysis of the limitations of our perception and the spirit’s evolutionary path toward understanding the Creator.
What does “lacks a sense” mean?
In Spiritism, this “sense” refers to a spiritual faculty that has not yet been developed. Just as animals cannot grasp human ideas due to cognitive limitations, human beings currently lack the spiritual tools needed to perceive God’s essence.
This understanding doesn’t hinder the spiritual quest; instead, it encourages a humble and realistic stance before divine greatness.
Is God’s nature accessible to reason?
Spiritism promotes faith based on reason. Although we cannot grasp the inner nature of God, we can deduce His qualities through:
- The harmony of natural laws;
- The logic of spiritual progress;
- The constant presence of justice and love in creation.
God may not be visible, but His influence is felt all around us.
Comparisons with other philosophical and religious views
Many doctrines acknowledge this limitation. Christianity speaks of an “ineffable” God. Hinduism refers to Brahman as “that which cannot be defined.” Greek philosophy proposed an “unmoved mover,” the cause of all things, but unreachable by logic.
Spiritism resonates with these views and emphasizes that, as we evolve, we become increasingly capable of perceiving the divine presence.
Why can’t we understand it now?
According to the Spirits, humanity is still in a learning phase. Our perceptions are currently limited by:
- Moral imperfections;
- Egoism and pride;
- Lack of spiritual sensitivity.
As the spirit evolves, new senses awaken, and we can begin to grasp what is now a mystery.
Signs of divine presence
Even if we don’t understand God’s essence, we can perceive Him in small things:
- The order and perfection of physical and moral laws;
- The conscience that drives us toward good;
- The beauty of creation and the instinct to love.
God doesn’t need to be intellectually understood to be felt in the heart.
The role of humility on the spiritual path
Recognizing our limitations is the first step to overcoming them. Admitting that we cannot yet fully understand God:
- Protects us from dogmatic arrogance;
- Opens space for ongoing learning;
- Stimulates a sincere quest for evolution.
The path to understanding God
Spiritual evolution is not quick. It is a gradual process involving:
- Reincarnation;
- Diverse experiences;
- Constant practice of charity, love, and justice.
Over time, the spirit develops new capacities for perception, drawing closer to understanding the divine nature.
Daily practice: how to draw closer to God
Even without fully grasping His inner nature, we can live in harmony with God by:
- Doing good each day;
- Cultivating elevated thoughts;
- Studying moral laws revealed by the Superior Spirits;
- Maintaining active faith based on balanced reason and emotion.
Conclusion
Not understanding God’s inner nature does not mean He is distant or inaccessible. On the contrary: He manifests in all that is just, beautiful, and true. Spiritism teaches that understanding will come with time, as we grow in love and wisdom.
In the meantime, it is up to us to live consistently with values that reflect this divine presence, becoming little by little more conscious, more just, and more loving.
Further reading:
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