The Question of Evil

The core inquiry of the problem of evil is straightforward: if God is omniscient, omnipotent, and wholly good, why does evil exist? If evil exists and God is unaware, then he is not all-knowing. If he knows about evil but cannot intervene, then he is not all-powerful. Conversely, if he is aware and capable of acting but chooses not to, then he cannot be all-good. This raises the question: how do we account for the existence of both God and evil?

Aquinas's Perspective on Evil

Philosopher Thomas Aquinas offered a compelling approach to this conundrum. He argued that evil is not an entity but rather a deficiency—specifically, a privation. Just as coldness is merely the absence of heat and darkness the absence of light, evil is the absence of goodness. Therefore, since evil is not a tangible thing, God cannot be its creator; rather, it arises from human ignorance.

God’s gift of free will allows for the potential of evil, as true love cannot be mandated but must be chosen freely. This freedom, while essential for genuine love, also permits individuals to engage in actions that lack goodness.

For instance, standing near a bonfire feels warm, but as one moves away, the sensation of coldness increases due to the distance from the heat source. In this analogy, the heat represents goodness, while coldness symbolizes the absence of it. As humanity distances itself from this source of goodness—metaphorically represented as God—we become increasingly ignorant and detached.

The Cosmological Insight on Evil

Cosmologist Brian Swimme, in his work "Journey of the Universe," illustrates the evolution of the cosmos through its various phases. He asserts that this progression adheres to universal laws. However, once humans emerged and attained self-awareness, free will was introduced, allowing them to step outside these cosmic laws.

This shift fundamentally alters the relationship between humanity and the universe—or God, as previously discussed. Over billions of years, the universe has faced numerous challenges, yet it has navigated these crises with wisdom and intention.

Now, however, we confront a crisis not of the universe's making: the current environmental and existential threats posed by humanity itself. This deterioration of our world raises the question: is God accountable for this situation? The answer is clear: the responsibility lies with humanity and not with God, who should not be blamed for our reckless decisions.

Collaborative Responsibility for Solutions

After the moment of enlightenment in the Garden of Eden, where humanity gained the ability to make choices, God began to regard us as responsible adults. As we navigate our challenges, it is imperative that we recognize our role as co-creators with God or the universe.

We cannot rely solely on divine intervention; we must actively engage in solving our issues. This partnership requires us to quiet our minds and tap into the universe's profound wisdom.

The journey of human free will is a shared endeavor between humanity and the universe. This evolution was necessary for the universe to attain self-awareness, and we play an integral role in that process.

The Importance of Ego Development and Release

The psychologist Carl Jung emphasized the necessity of developing one’s ego as a pathway to individuation. However, he also noted that this process has limits and that ultimately, the ego must be transcended. He stated, “The first half of life is devoted to developing a healthy ego. The second half is going inward and letting go of it.”

This perspective resonates with our current situation. As a species, we have invested significant time in ego development, and now it is crucial to focus inward and relinquish the ego. By doing so, we can collaborate with the universe or God to address our problems and those of our planet.

In conclusion, our ailing planet, as described by Brian Swimme, is not the fault of God or the universe; it is our responsibility. It is time for us to mature and take ownership of our actions. Rather than waiting for divine intervention or external saviors, we must rise to the occasion and rectify our own mistakes.

For further exploration of the universe's wonders, click here: The Magical Universe.