1 Human Life is a Gift

Many core aspects of our existence are not chosen or earned but simply bestowed upon us. Our human body, our families, communities, and the wider environment we inhabit are all parts of this “givenness”. 

Consciousness is another aspect of givenness. Through consciousness, we are able to experience the world, connect with others, and seek a deeper understanding of our existence.

It results in human existence being inherently relational, with our lives intricately bound to various connections encompassing ourselves, our families, friends, communities, and the nature of which we are a part. This interconnectedness is not something that we can opt out of or choose to disregard; rather, it is an essential and fundamental aspect of our being that is inherent to our existence.

This notion of “givenness” has significant connections to spirituality, where the divine, the sacred, or the ultimate reality is often considered the source of all existence.

The human body, often viewed as a given in philosophical terms, is considered sacred in many spiritual traditions. It is seen as a temple or vessel for the divine spirit to reside. This sacredness suggests that the body is not merely a biological machine but a conduit for a higher purpose.

Consciousness is perceived as a divine gift in spiritual contexts. It leads to the spiritual journey of enlightenment or liberation. Many spiritual traditions emphasize recognizing the limitations of our ego-driven consciousness and surrendering to a higher power. This surrender involves acknowledging that our true nature is rooted in a divine source and that our path to enlightenment lies in aligning with this source.

The concept of “givenness” promotes feelings of appreciation and humility. This mindset enhances our relationship with a higher entity and nurtures a sense of awe and wonder. Further, it instills attitudes of gratitude, compassion, joy, peace, and genuine love towards oneself, others and nature at large.

In summary, the philosophical concept of givenness intersects deeply with spirituality, offering a framework for understanding the divine nature of our existence, the sacredness of the human body, and the importance of gratitude and humility. Exploring the concept of spirituality allows us to gain a profound appreciation for the trascendental dimensions of our lives and our place in the universe.