If we spoke a different language, we would perceive a somewhat different world.
The Christian religion is only for one who needs infinite help, therefore only for one who feels an infinite need. The whole planet cannot be in greater anguish than a single soul. The Christian faith - as I view it - is the refuge in this ultimate anguish. To whom it is given in this anguish to open his heart, instead of contracting it, accepts the means of salvation in his heart.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects the idea that Christianity serves those in deep anguish, providing a refuge and salvation to those who recognize their need for help.
Ludwig Wittgenstein's quote suggests that individuals who feel an immense sense of suffering or anguish find solace and salvation in the Christian faith. He emphasizes that this religion is for those aware of their infinite need for assistance, and that true acceptance of faith comes when one opens their heart to it, rather than shutting down in despair. This highlights the profound relationship between suffering, the need for help, and the embrace of spirituality.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
During a church sermon discussing the importance of faith in overcoming personal struggles.
More from Ludwig Wittgenstein
All quotes βOne cannot guess how a word functions. One has to look at its use and learn from that. But the difficulty is to remove the prejudice which stands in the way of doing this. It is not a stupid prejudice.
No one likes having offended another person; hence everyone feels so much better if the other person doesn't show he's been offended. Nobody likes being confronted by a wounded spaniel. Remember that. It is much easier patiently - and tolerantly - to avoid the person you have injured than to approach him as a friend. You need courage for that.
It's impossible for me to say one word about all that music has meant to me in my life. How, then, can I hope to be understood?
Nothing is so difficult as not deceiving oneself.
My day passes between logic, whistling, going for walks, and being depressed. I wish to God that I were more intelligent and everything would finally become clear to me - or else that I needn't live much longer.
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God doesn't ask that we succeed in everything, but that we are faithful. However beautiful our work may be, let us not become attached to it. Always remain prepared to give it up, without losing your peace.