“I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else.”
- November 29, 1898 – November 22, 1963
- Born in Ireland
- Writer, scholar
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Quote
“I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else.”
Explanation
In this profound quote, C. S. Lewis compares his belief in Christianity to the way he perceives the sun: not just as a visible, independent entity, but as something that illuminates and makes sense of everything around it. Lewis suggests that Christianity is not merely something to be observed or acknowledged in a superficial way; rather, it is the lens through which he understands and interprets all aspects of life. Just as the sun enables us to see the world clearly, Christianity, for Lewis, provides the moral clarity and spiritual perspective necessary to make sense of the world and our experiences. It is not simply a set of beliefs or doctrines, but the foundation upon which everything else—our values, decisions, and purpose—rests.
Historically, Lewis came to this realization after his own conversion from atheism to Christianity. As a scholar, he had grappled with the rational arguments for and against faith. However, upon his conversion, he found that Christianity provided a coherent and transformative framework for understanding reality, human nature, and the world. This shift in perspective mirrored his belief that the truth of the gospel was not just a theoretical concept but the key to understanding the whole of existence.
In contemporary times, this quote remains relevant as it encourages people to see beyond the surface of life’s challenges and mysteries, urging them to find a deeper meaning and purpose in the light of Christian faith. Whether in philosophical reflection or daily life, Lewis’s insight reminds us that, just as the sun enables us to see and make sense of the world, Christianity offers a guiding principle for navigating life’s complexities, shaping our worldview and interactions with others.
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