“Faith consists in believing when it is beyond the power of reason to believe.”
- November 21, 1694 – May 30, 1778
- Born in France
- Philosopher, man of letters, historian
- Wrote many works, including “Philosophy of History,” “De Toleration,” “Philosophical Dictionary,” “Philosophical Letters,” “Oedipus,” and “Candide,” and is known as a pioneer of Enlightenment thought.
Quote
“Faith consists in believing when it is beyond the power of reason to believe.”
Explanation
This quote reflects Voltaire’s perspective on the nature of faith, particularly in relation to reason. He suggests that true faith requires belief in something that cannot be fully explained or justified by logic or reason. In Voltaire’s view, faith is not simply a rational conclusion, but rather a choice to believe in something beyond empirical evidence or intellectual understanding, often rooted in spiritual or religious conviction.
In modern contexts, this idea touches on the relationship between reason and belief, especially in religious or philosophical discussions. Faith is often understood as a belief in something that goes beyond what can be proven or understood through science or logic. Voltaire’s quote underscores the tension between faith and reason, acknowledging that faith requires a leap beyond the limits of rational thought.
A specific example of this principle can be seen in religious belief systems where individuals hold strong convictions about spiritual matters that cannot be empirically proven. For instance, many people believe in the existence of a higher power or afterlife, despite the lack of scientific evidence to support these beliefs. Voltaire’s words invite us to reflect on the nature of faith and its ability to transcend the bounds of reason.
