John Hick Problem Of Evil Essay

For years, many have questioned G-d’s role when it comes to addressing the problem of evil. Why is it that bad things always happen to the best of people? Oftentimes, we find ourselves wondering how an all-powerful, all-knowing, and all-good divinity could allow for such atrocities to occur, such as the Holocaust and the enslavement of millions. G-d’s role and existence surrounding the problem of evil is most often debated by philosophers and theologians alike such as English philosopher, John Hick. Hick introduces a consoling outlook to why such atrocities exist, framing G-d’s role and reasoning for evil's existence as a way for us to learn, grow, and better our souls. Through overcoming our most grueling battles G-d has to offer, we are becoming

It is simply impossible to truly appreciate all the good that life has to offer without recognizing and overcoming the bad. Pleasure cannot exist without pain and vice versa. If G-d were to create a world without pain and suffering, one would be unable to value and recognize what has been given to us, eternal happiness and prosperity. Hick characterizes ones coming to consciousness of the development of goodness after immense hardship as a step towards becoming virtuous and worthy of creation (Hick 323). Life is simply too precious to be hyper focused on the bad without hope of bettering oneself. Hick furthers this idea of self betterment and fulfillment through portraying one's struggles and hardships as a reason for us to grow as individuals and enjoy what life has to offer. Overcoming the evils in our world teaches us to have more empathy towards those around us, and to help those who happen to be less fortunate than us. It is not until we struggle that we begin to notice the true beauty life has to offer and all the potential we as human beings

Hick’s perspective allows one to believe in G-d’s existence while emphasizing individuality and growth. While there are clearly some logistical and moral fallacies that need to be addressed, through employing Hick’s approach, one is accepting the importance learning from our previous mistakes has on our lives. Through overcoming our darkest times, we are coming into the light to see all that the world has to offer while also working towards bettering ourselves. Not only are we becoming stronger spiritually, but also mentally as we begin to see that we are capable of overcoming any adversity that comes our