When Faith Meets Philosophy: Exploring Walking Towards God by Michel Henry

 When Faith Meets Philosophy: Exploring Walking Towards God by Michel Henry

This philosophical exploration on faith invites contemplation of divine experience through the lens of phenomenology. Michel Henry, a renowned French philosopher and theologian, delves into the nature of religious belief not as blind acceptance but as an encounter with radical alterity—the profound otherness of the Divine.

“Walking Towards God,” originally published in French in 1973 as “Dieu souffrant,” offers a unique perspective on faith by rejecting traditional rationalistic and empirical approaches. Instead, Henry employs phenomenology, a philosophical method that seeks to understand consciousness and experience directly. He argues that genuine religious experience is not based on proof or intellectual assent but rather on an intimate encounter with the divine presence that transforms our being.

This encounter, according to Henry, is characterized by a profound sense of vulnerability and openness. God is not perceived as a distant object to be understood or controlled but as an overwhelming force that shatters our egoistic self-certainty and draws us into a deeper reality.

The Structure of “Walking Towards God”

Henry’s book unfolds in a series of interconnected chapters, each exploring a different aspect of the relationship between faith and phenomenology:

Chapter Title Theme
1 “The Enigma of Faith” Addresses the problem of explaining religious belief in a secular world.
2 “Revelation as Self-Giving” Explores how God reveals himself through acts of love and self-donation.
3 “The Passion of Christ” Examines the crucifixion as a paradigm of divine vulnerability and suffering.
4 “Walking Towards God” Explains the process of spiritual transformation through an ongoing encounter with the divine presence.
5 “Beyond Theology” Discusses the limitations of traditional theological language in expressing the ineffable nature of faith.

The Key Concepts: An Exploration

  • Radical Alterity: This term refers to the absolute otherness of God, his transcendence beyond all human categories and understanding. For Henry, encountering this radical alterity is essential for genuine religious experience.

  • Self-Giving: Henry emphasizes that God’s essence is love, a self-giving act that precedes all creation and sustains the universe.

  • Passivity and Receptivity: Faith requires not merely intellectual assent but a surrender of our own will and ego to the divine presence. We must become receptive to God’s infinite grace, allowing it to transform us from within.

  • The Lived Experience of Faith: Rather than relying on abstract doctrines or proofs, Henry emphasizes the importance of understanding faith through lived experience. He encourages readers to reflect on their own encounters with the Divine and to explore the transformative power of faith in their lives.

Production Features

Originally published in French as “Dieu souffrant,” “Walking Towards God” has been translated into numerous languages, reflecting its global impact and relevance.

The book’s prose is characterized by a poetic sensibility and deep philosophical rigor. While challenging at times, Henry’s writing rewards careful reading with profound insights into the nature of faith and the human condition. The book has sparked ongoing debate and discussion among theologians, philosophers, and scholars of religion.

“Walking Towards God” continues to be studied and debated for its unique approach to religious experience. It remains a seminal work in the field of philosophical theology, offering a nuanced and compelling vision of faith rooted in phenomenological insights.

Reading “Walking Towards God”: A Challenge and a Reward

Reading “Walking Towards God” can be a demanding but ultimately rewarding experience. Henry’s thought-provoking arguments and insightful analysis require careful consideration and engagement with complex philosophical concepts. However, for those seeking a deeper understanding of faith and the relationship between humanity and the Divine, this book offers valuable insights and perspectives that can enrich one’s spiritual journey.

The challenge lies in embracing the unfamiliar terrain of phenomenology and grappling with Henry’s unconventional approach to religious belief. Yet, the reward is a profound encounter with the mystery of faith and a deeper appreciation for the transformative power of divine love.