Common to all these types is the anthropomorphic character…
“Common to all these types is the anthropomorphic character of their conception of God. In general, only individuals of exceptional endowments, and exceptionally high-minded communities, rise to any considerable extent above this level. But there is a third stage of religious experience which belongs to all of them, even though it is rarely found in a pure form: I shall call it cosmic religious feeling. It is very difficult to elucidate this feeling to anyone who is entirely without it, especially as there is no anthropomorphic conception of God corresponding to it.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Humans often picture God with human traits, but a higher, non‑anthropomorphic spiritual sense exists beyond ordinary belief.
In simple terms: God is often seen as human‑like, yet there is a deeper, cosmic spirituality.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and explore the non‑human, universal spiritual dimension.
Themes
spirituality
religion
anthropomorphism
cosmic consciousness
Mood
contemplative
reflective
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal meditation
- interfaith dialogue
- philosophical study
- creative writing
Key Concepts
theology
philosophy of mind
existential awe
Questions to Reflect On
- How can one describe a non‑anthropomorphic spiritual experience?
- What practices help access this cosmic feeling?
A Different Perspective
Such cosmic feeling may be rare and hard to articulate for those without similar experiences.