Albert Einstein Quotes - His View of Religion & Faith

Albert Einstein (14 March 1879 – 18 April 1955) is rightfully regarded as one of the most brilliant scientific minds in history. His contributions to the world of science, including the theory of relativity, the first post-Newtonian expansion, and many others have earned him the commonly given title of "the father of modern physics."

Perhaps more interesting, though, are his views on religion & spirituality.

Science & Religion Don't Mix. Or Do They?

While many people - on both sides of the debate - will vehemently hold to the idea that science and religion are at odds with each other, Einstein's view is one that we should all consider.

In essence, his thoughts were that an enlightened mind will see the truth that true science and true spirituality are bound together with universal truth and reason.

His opinion remind us of a paraphrase of Brigham Young (The early Mormon pioneer) when he said that "[True] religion will not clash with nor contradict the facts of science in any particular."

Einstein's Words

Here are some of the words straight from Albert Einstein himself:

"Look deep into nature, then you will understand everything better." -- Albert Einstein

I love the simplicity, and profoundness contained in the idea that all we need to know is waiting for us to discover within the laws of nature.

This next one could very well be the words of Jesus himself:

"Everyone has two choices. We're either full of love...or full of fear" -- Albert Einstein

Maybe the Beatles were on to something when they taught us "All you need is love..."

This next one reminds us of the underlying laws & truths that bind the whole world together, and that a reductionist view of the world will never leave to full understanding, only a holistic perspective:

"But, on the other hand, every one who is seriously involved in the pursuit of science becomes convinced that a spirit is manifest in the laws of the Universe - a spirit vastly superior to that of man, and one in the face of which we with our modest powers must feel humble. In this way the pursuit of science leads to a religious feeling of a special sort, which is indeed quite different from the religiosity of someone more naive." -- Albert Einstein

In contrast to the many minds (in both religion and science) that can quickly become arrogant when they find themselves in possession of information "hidden" from the general population, Einstein's words remind us that humility is indeed a virtue, and the fruit (and pre-requisite) in the pursuit of true knowledge.

The power of thought... both for ill & good:

"A human being is part of the whole, called by us 'Universe'; a part limited in time and space. He experiences himself, his thoughts and feelings as something separated from the rest--a kind of optical delusion of his consciousness. This delusion is a kind of prison for us, restricting us to our personal desires and affection for a few persons nearest us. Our task must be to free ourselves from this prison by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole nature in its beauty. Nobody is able to achieve this completely but striving for such achievement is, in itself, a part of the liberation and a foundation for inner security." -- Albert Einstein

The same message we hear with popular psychology and Law Of Attraction, true growth is found in making our thoughts pure, intentional and in harmony with reality (as opposed to our faulty interpretations).

Summing Things Up... Einstein's Religion

This last thought is one that should strike us all:

"In essence, my religion consists of a humble admiration for this illimitable superior spirit that reveals itself in the slight details that we are able to perceive with our frail and feeble minds." -- Albert Einstein

Reminding us to not only be humble, but also grateful, and filled with awe & wonder, we should all adopt an attitude similar to Albert Einstein and approach our days with child-like enthusiasm and curiousity for what the universe might be wanting to teach us.

What thoughts stick out to you the most?

For more great Albert Einstein quotes, check out Albert Einstein Quotes by enlightenedsoul.