The Purpose of a Divine Being: Deconstructing and Reconsidering the Concept

Since ancient times, humanity has sought to understand and find purpose in the divine. One of the primary questions surrounding this quest is, if there is a God, what is His purpose? This article delves into the multifaceted answers to this question, emphasizing the broader context of faith and human understanding.

A Divine Purpose for Humanity

The Bahá'í Faith offers a profound insight into the purpose of a divine being. According to Bahaullah, the purpose of God is to guide humanity towards a life of knowledge and love. The divine goal is to create an ever-advancing civilization, one where individuals can transcend the limitations of human understanding and approach divinity. This ambitious yet achievable goal underscores the importance of recognizing divine knowledge and wisdom, rather than disregarding it in favor of the opinions and actions of mortals.

“... as man can never hope to attain unto the knowledge of the All-Glorious can never quaff from the stream of divine knowledge and wisdom can never enter the abode of immortality nor partake of the cup of divine nearness and favour unless and until he ceases to regard the words and deeds of mortal men as a standard for the true understanding and recognition of God and His Prophets.” - Bahaullah, The Kitab-i-Iqan, p. 3, The Book of Certitude

These teachings provide people with a structured explanation for their existential questions, offering a sense of purpose that is both profound and achievable.

Limited Human Understanding vs. Infinite Divine Knowledge

Our finite minds struggle to comprehend the infinite nature of a divine being. This limitation is not a cop-out but a testament to the complexity and vastness of the divine. While humans are limited by the physical and mental boundaries they possess, a divine being transcends these confines. This is why many people cannot grasp the concept of an eternal, infinite God.

However, the divine being offers an eternal love that is so profound that it leads to the ultimate sacrifice. The love of God is so great that He allows His son to be sacrificed, promising salvation to those who accept this sacrifice. This ultimate act of love and sacrifice is a testament to the divine purpose of ensuring eternal life for humanity.

Religion and the Purpose of a Divine Being

Religion has historically served multiple purposes. In ancient times, when human knowledge was limited, the concept of a deity was invented to explain the mysteries of the world. Religion provided a framework for understanding the natural world and moral principles.

“God have had a few uses over the years. When people were uneducated and ignorant, they made up stories to explain how the world worked and invented god to fill the gaps in their knowledge.”

The role of religion has evolved. It has been instrumental in fostering social cohesion, providing a sense of belonging, and offering moral guidance. However, in the 21st century, the need for such a deity may be seen as redundant and anachronistic. Nevertheless, the core tenets of religion, such as the divine purpose of promoting knowledge, love, and an advancing civilization, remain relevant.

The Existence of the Universe and Its Elements

The existence of the universe and its constituent elements presents a compelling case for the existence of a divine being. As everything in the universe indicates a supreme power or purpose, it becomes difficult to dismiss the need for a divine being. The systematic order and complexity of the universe suggest an intelligent designer, a concept that aligns with the idea of a divine purpose.

“If there is No God then there is no possibility of the existence of Universe and its constituent element. As everything around us indicates a supreme power behind its existence and systematic purpose.”

This perspective challenges the notion that the universe is merely a random conglomeration of matter and forces, but instead suggests a higher, guiding force. This force, if seen as divine, provides a unifying and purposeful framework for understanding the world.

In conclusion, the purpose of a divine being is multifaceted. It encompasses guiding humanity, providing a framework for understanding the world, fostering social cohesion, and emphasizing the importance of an eternal and loving deity. The search for purpose in a divine being is a profound and enduring quest that resonates across cultures and centuries.