Overview
The article explores Soren Kierkegaard's philosophical analysis of the biblical story of Abraham and Isaac in "Fear and Trembling," emphasizing faith's complexities and the ethical dilemmas involved in absolute obedience to God.
Kierkegaard and "Fear and Trembling"
- Kierkegaard anticipated that "Fear and Trembling" would secure his place in intellectual history through its deep exploration of faith.
- The book is written under the pseudonym "Johannes de silentio," examining Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son Isaac.
- Abraham is presented as the "father of faith," prompting reflection on the value and nature of Christian faith.
Philosophical Interpretations of Abraham's Story
- Martin Luther praised Abraham for "blind faith" and unconditional obedience to divine command.
- Immanuel Kant criticized Abraham, arguing moral law should override any command that is obviously immoral.
- Kierkegaard acknowledges the ethical horror and rational absurdity in Abraham's act, aligning somewhat with Kant.
Kierkegaard's Central Dilemma
- Kierkegaard presents a dilemma: either Abraham is a murderer, or moral duties do not constitute the highest claim on humanity.
- "Fear and Trembling" does not resolve this, suggesting for believers that there may be no fully satisfactory answer.
- The story tests readers' faith, forcing them to consider their willingness to act as Abraham did.
Challenge to Complacency in Faith
- Kierkegaard's aim is not to endorse blind faith in God, but to disrupt readers' blind faith in themselves.
- He argues that only by questioning one's assumed Christianity can one genuinely begin to "become a Christian."
Abraham as an Existential Model
- Abraham is admired not just for obedience, but for courage in facing the potential loss of his beloved son.
- The threat of loss in love symbolizes the human condition, where relationships are always shadowed by mortality.
- Kierkegaard suggests two responses: avoid contemplating mortality or accept loss through "resignation," but Abraham's courage surpasses both.
Faith, Love, and Suffering
- The story links the experience of love and loss with the challenge of believing in a just and loving God amid suffering.
- Abraham inspires because he holds the paradoxical belief that God can both demand immense suffering and embody love.
- Kierkegaard concludes that the story highlights the profound difficulty and demands of true religious faith.