"Religion is the state of being grasped by an ultimate concern, a concern which qualifies all other concerns as preliminary and which itself contains the answer to the question of a meaning of our life"

Paul Tillich, a popular 20th-century theologian and philosopher, offers a profound viewpoint on religious beliefs with this statement. His quote reveals a conceptualization of religion not as simply a set of rituals or beliefs, however as an existential condition or state of being. According to Tillich, religion is essentially about being "understood by a supreme concern". This recommends that religious beliefs involves a profound, life-defining engagement with something ultimate-- something of utmost importance that goes beyond ordinary concerns.

The expression "ultimate issue" indicates a depth of dedication and significance that surpasses all other interests or preoccupations. It is an issue that becomes the main focus of one's life, providing significance and orientation. In Tillich's faith, this ultimate concern relates to one's relationship with the divine or the ground of being-- the structure upon which whatever else stands.

Tillich's quote also highlights the certifying nature of this supreme concern. By mentioning that it certifies "all other issues as preliminary", he suggests that all other interests or pursuits are secondary or secondary to this main, overarching issue. These initial concerns-- such as career, wealth, or social status-- are needed and have their place, however they obtain their significance and purpose in relation to the supreme concern.

Additionally, Tillich asserts that the ultimate concern "includes the answer to the question of the significance of our life". This recommends that it is through our engagement with this supreme concern that we find responses to existential concerns such as, "What is the purpose of my life?" or "Why do I exist?" Faith, in this framework, offers a response that uses coherence, direction, and satisfaction to one's existence.

Thus, Tillich's concept is a call to look for and maintain a focus on what is ultimately significant, advising individuals to orient their lives around this profound issue that promises to expose life's real significance.