Paradoxes: The hidden keys to Truth

par·a·dox

 

noun

1.

a statement or proposition that seems self-contradictory orabsurd but in reality expresses a possible truth.

I believe that all the greatest Truths in life lie at the heart of a paradox. The reason they are so controversial is that paradoxes are impossible to fathom. In trying to understand how two seemingly opposite and exclusive ideas simultaneously exist and are intertwined in a greater idea is outside of our scope of understanding (in its fullest). It is much easier to understand a singular aspect of a paradox which is what many people fall into. Humans are capable of understanding one side of a paradox nearly perfectly with a lot of time, study, and practice (even if they are incapable of acting on that understanding). In fact, the only way that we can marry two seemly opposing views is through some sort of compromise.

An example of this is in the Faith vs Deeds dichotomy. In reading through passages like Ephesians 2:8-9 as well Luke 10:38-42 it is clear that deeds in and of themselves have very little inherent value. What we do pales in comparison to what we believe. It is what is inside that counts. But then again deeds are extremely important right? Faith without deeds is dead? What kind of a person sails through life on belief without ever doing anything about it, without changing based on that belief? So perhaps actions truly do speak louder than words in that our actions are the best way to determine what other people believe? What is inside you always eventually pops through to the outside for all to see. But then again everyone sins, no one is perfect. Then why is it that very many people feel they have to perform a certain way to be accepted by many religious circles? What is the deal with faith and deeds?

As you can see there are definitely two different sides to this issue. And, in this case, it should be fairly apparent that there are true aspects to both sides. People tend to gravitate towards one side or the other at different times, often swinging back and fourth between the two sides. In other areas, perhaps ones where a marriage of two aspects of a paradox are harder to understand, there are much clearer party lines. Boarders are drawn, factions form, battles wage.

The key in seeking the Truth is knowing that there is almost always another side to the coin. And although on the surface it may not seem to hold much water, if you keep an open mind, always seeking the truth in everything, you should find that the truth lies deep inside a complex marriage between both sides. And since we are unable to fully understand these complexities, it is alright to admit to an imperfect understanding of these paradoxes.


I really want to know what you think of this idea. Are there any other similar paradoxes that you have noticed/thought about?