When we ask ourselves “what is God?”, we approach one of humanity’s greatest questions. Allan Kardec, through The Spirits’ Book, offers a clear, simple, and deeply revealing answer that appeals to both reason and emotion. Let’s explore this response in a practical way that makes it accessible to everyone.
The Fundamental Definition (Question 0001)
According to the first question in The Spirits’ Book, Allan Kardec asks the superior spirits:
Question: What is God?
Answer: “God is the Supreme Intelligence, the First Cause of all things.”
This definition highlights two essential points:
- Supreme Intelligence: God is the highest consciousness, the absolute intelligent principle.
- First Cause: God is the origin of everything that exists.
This idea eliminates materialistic or anthropomorphic views. God is not an “old man with a white beard” as commonly imagined, but the intelligence that governs the entire universe.
Why Does This Definition Matter?
1. A Rational God
Spiritism presents a God that can be understood through reason. It doesn’t demand blind faith but encourages logical reflection on existence.
2. Universality
This view aligns with various religions and philosophies that recognize an intelligent, creative principle—reinforcing the notion that truth is universal.
Attributes Ascribed to God
In the following questions, Allan Kardec expands on God’s qualities:
- Eternal: Without beginning or end.
- Immutable: Unchanging, as God is absolute perfection.
- Immaterial: Not composed of matter.
- Omnipotent: All-powerful, yet not arbitrary.
- Omniscient: All-knowing.
- Just and Good: Supreme justice and goodness define His nature.
These attributes form a vision of God not as human, but as a moral and intelligent force behind the universe.
God and Science: Conflict or Harmony?
Spiritism proposes harmony between faith and science. Referring to God as the First Cause respects scientific evidence and views science as a revelation of divine laws.
For instance, the laws of physics do not negate God but instead express His intelligence through nature’s workings.
Understanding God in Daily Life
To laypersons, God might seem abstract. But Spiritism teaches that we perceive God in everything:
- In the perfection of natural laws.
- In the beauty of creation.
- In the instinct for preservation.
- In the capacity to love and evolve.
Each act of kindness reflects this greater intelligence working within us.
Common Misconceptions About God
1. Humanizing God
Many envision God as vengeful, driven by human passions. Kardec clarifies: God is perfect and thus does not feel anger or punish out of revenge.
2. Denying God Through Science
Rejecting God because He can’t be “seen” is like denying the wind because it can’t be touched. The effect is the proof of the cause.
Connection With Other Doctrines
Interestingly, many traditions converge on a similar understanding:
- In Christianity, God is love.
- In Islam, God is merciful and powerful.
- In Hinduism, Brahman is the universal consciousness.
- In Greek philosophy, Aristotle’s Unmoved Mover.
This shows humanity’s intuitive recognition of a creative intelligence.
Importance for Moral Evolution
Knowing that God is just and good transforms how we live:
- Encourages personal responsibility.
- Strengthens hope in divine justice.
- Promotes love for others.
Spiritual Education
Being aware of the divine presence in everyday life is part of the spiritual education that Spiritism fosters.
Conclusion
Understanding what God is according to Allan Kardec invites deep reflection and also simplicity: God is present in all that is good, just, and harmonious. And you—how do you understand God in your life?
More than belief, it’s a path to live better, evolve spiritually, and help build a fairer world.
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