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Adventure Quote by Alfred North Whitehead

“Religion is the vision of something which stands beyond, behind, and within, the passing flux of immediate things; something which is real, and yet waiting to be realised; something which is a remote possibility, and yet the greatest of present facts; something that gives meaning to all that…” quote by Alfred North Whitehead
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“Religion is the vision of something which stands beyond, behind, and within, the passing flux of immediate things; something which is real, and yet waiting to be realised; something which is a remote possibility, and yet the greatest of present facts; something that gives meaning to all that passes, and yet eludes apprehension; something whose possession is the final good, and yet is beyond all reach; something which is the ultimate ideal, and the hopeless quest.”

Alfred North Whitehead

About This Quote

Source Book: Process and Reality, Alfred North Whitehead, 1929

Religion is portrayed as an ultimate, elusive ideal that gives meaning yet remains beyond full grasp.

In simple terms: Religion is an ultimate ideal that is both meaningful and unattainable.

Key Takeaway

Seek meaning while accepting mystery.

Themes

meaning existence spirituality philosophy

Mood

contemplative inquisitive

Type

philosophical reflective

When to use this quote

  • personal crisis
  • ethical decision making
  • creative inspiration
  • counseling
  • academic study

Key Concepts

Idealism process philosophy ontology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “ultimate good” mean to you?
  • How do you reconcile belief with uncertainty?
A Different Perspective

It may overlook practical aspects of lived faith.

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