"The essence of religion consists in the feeling of an absolute dependence"
- Friedrich Schleiermacher
About this Quote
Friedrich Schleiermacher's quote speaks to the core of what religious beliefs is. He suggests that the essence of faith is the sensation of absolute reliance. This implies that religious beliefs is not just about following a set of rules or beliefs, but rather it has to do with having a deep sense of dependence on something higher than oneself. This could be a greater power, a divine being, and even a set of worths or principles. This feeling of dependence is what gives religious beliefs its power and meaning. It is the structure of faith and the source of spiritual guidance. It is the acknowledgment that we are not in control of our lives and that we need to depend on something else to provide us with direction and purpose. This sensation of reliance is what makes faith so powerful and meaningful to many people.
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