Three days later on 1st August 1835, the day after the first anniversary of his mother’s death, we find in his Journal one of Kierkegaard’s most quoted phrases: ‘The thing is to find a truth which is true for me’.
This is often quoted in relation to relativism – truth is relative to what I want it to be – there is no absolute truth.
What we very rarely see is the quote in context:
‘The thing is to understand myself, to see what God really wishes me to do; the thing is to find a truth which is true for me, to find the idea for which I can live and die. What would be the use of discovering so-called objective truth, of working through all the systems of philosophy … what good would it do me to be able to explain the meaning of Christianity if it had no deeper significance for me and for my life; what good would it do me if truth stood before me, cold and naked, not caring whether I recognised her or not, and producing in me a shudder of fear rather than a trusting devotion? ‘
Kierkegaard is seeking meaning and purpose for his life, probably brought into stark contrast by his reflection on the frailty of life.
… Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8: 31- 32 [NIV]
Father thank you that you are the absolute truth.
Guy Mowbray
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