Wonder is the basis of worship

Wonder is the basis of worship

Thomas Carlyle, a Scottish philosopher, writer, and historian, once said, "Wonder is the basis of worship." This profound statement encapsulates the idea that the feeling of wonder, awe, and amazement at the world around us is what inspires us to worship something greater than ourselves. In Carlyle's view, wonder is not just a fleeting emotion, but a deep and profound appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the universe.

Carlyle believed that wonder was essential to the human experience, as it allows us to transcend our everyday concerns and connect with something greater than ourselves. When we experience wonder, we are reminded of the vastness and mystery of the world, and our place within it. This sense of awe and reverence can lead us to worship, whether that be through traditional religious practices or simply through a deep appreciation for the natural world.

For Carlyle, wonder was not just a passive emotion, but a call to action. He believed that when we experience wonder, we are compelled to seek out the source of that wonder and to understand it more deeply. This can lead to a deeper appreciation for the world around us, as well as a greater sense of connection to something greater than ourselves.