Affinity Quote by Blaise Pascal
![“If there is a God, He is infinitely incomprehensible, since, having, neither parts nor limits, He has no affinity to us. We are then incapable of knowing either what He is or if He is. [So] you must wager. Let us weigh the gain and the loss in wagering that God is. Let us estimate these two…” quote by Blaise Pascal](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/40c/blaise-pascal-167_affinity_if-there-is-a-god-he-is-infinitely-incom_664912.jpg)
“If there is a God, He is infinitely incomprehensible, since, having, neither parts nor limits, He has no affinity to us. We are then incapable of knowing either what He is or if He is. [So] you must wager. Let us weigh the gain and the loss in wagering that God is. Let us estimate these two chances. If you gain, you gain all; if you lose, you lose nothing. Wager then without hesitation that he is.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Pensées, 1670
Pascal argues that God's nature is beyond human comprehension, so belief is a rational wager based on potential infinite gain versus finite loss.
In simple terms: God is unknowable; belief is a bet.
Key Takeaway
Believe to gain everything, risk nothing.
Themes
faith
reason
uncertainty
risk
theology
Mood
contemplative
serious
Type
philosophical
theological
When to use this quote
- personal belief decisions
- ethical dilemmas
- existential reflection
- philosophical debate
Key Concepts
Pascal's Wager
infinite vs finite
epistemic limits
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you think belief without evidence is justified?
- What are the risks of wagering on the unknown?
A Different Perspective
Assumes belief leads to positive outcomes; ignores potential negative consequences of belief.
![“If you place [your bet] with God, you lose nothing, even if it turns out that God does not exist. But if you place it against God, and you are wrong and God does exist, you lose everything.” quote by Peter Kreeft](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/e41/peter-kreeft-820_doe_if-you-place-your-bet-with-god-you-lose_2207968.jpg)
