Grzech pychy jako lęk przed niebytem. Perspektywa teologiczno-filozoficzna

Abstract

The article provides a theological and philosophical study of pride from the perspective of the effects of the original sin. Research demonstrates that pride manifests itself as a person’s reaction to the fear of nonexistence. As a consequence of the original sin, a human being has severed the life-giving bond with God, the Source of existence. Void, the space of nonexistence deprived of the presence of God and His love, bears a threat to the human self. Its psychological manifestation is a feeling of emptiness, incompletion and transience; a feeling of nonsense and despair; a fear of death. Theology points to the spiritual origin of the human fear. Philosophy as well as psychology also strive to consider the ontic dysfunction. The human being that does not experience the fundamental life-giving love feels an irresistible urge to fill the penetrating existential void. Such a person replaces a relationship to God with an illusion of being loved by confirming and supporting the human self, which provides a feeling of importance and worthy of existence. The sinful dynamism is best manifested in pride. Christianity presents the person as one that remains in a profound relationship with God. Faith encourages people to accept their sinful nature and to feel God’s love. As a result of this experience, Christians humbly submit to the operation of saving grace and seek confirmation of their existence in shaping a bond with God.