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What and Where is God? A Human Answer to the Deep Religious Cry of the Modern Soul

Written by Richard La Rue Swain

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About this book

"What and Where is God? A Human Answer to the Deep Religious Cry of the Modern Soul" by Richard LaRue Swain, Ph.D. is a philosophical and theological exploration written in the early 20th century. This work addresses profound questions concerning the existence and nature of God amidst the context of modern understanding and skepticism. The author seeks to provide a coherent conception of God, man, and the universe, bridging the gap between traditional religious beliefs and contemporary scientific insights. The beginning of this text introduces readers to the personal struggles of individuals grappling with the concept of God in an era marked by doubt and changing values. It opens with the poignant account of a minister's wife who expresses her disconnection from the idea of God, reflecting a broader crisis of faith faced by many. Through a series of questions and contemplative reflections, Swain emphasizes the necessity of refining our understanding of God in a way that resonates with modern knowledge and experience. He critiques outdated perceptions of God while laying the groundwork for a more relatable and dynamic conception of the Divine, aiming to address the deep religious cry inherent in contemporary society.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in What and Where is God? A Human Answer to the Deep Religious Cry of the Modern Soul, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • advanced
  • contemplative
  • philosophical
  • earnest

Richard La Rue Swain's "What and Where is God?" is an early 20th-century philosophical and theological treatise addressing the profound crisis of faith experienced by modern individuals grappling with traditional religious concepts in an age of scientific advancement and skepticism. The book embarks on an intellectual journey to redefine the understanding of God, aiming to bridge the chasm between conventional dogma and contemporary knowledge. Swain critiques outdated perceptions of the Divine, advocating for a more dynamic and relatable conception that resonates with the 'deep religious cry' of the modern soul. Through contemplative reflection and a series of probing questions, the author endeavors to provide a coherent framework for understanding God, humanity, and the universe, offering a 'human answer' to fundamental spiritual inquiries.

The deep religious cry of the modern soul demands a human answer, not merely an echo of ancient dogmas.

Key themes

The Crisis of Modern Faith
This theme explores the profound spiritual and intellectual challenges faced by individuals in an era marked by scientific advancements, skepticism, and changing societal values. It highlights the widespread disconnect from traditional religious concepts and the resulting 'deep religious cry' for a more relevant understanding of the Divine.
The Nature and Existence of God
This is the core philosophical inquiry of the book. Swain tackles fundamental questions about what God is and where God resides, moving beyond simplistic or anthropomorphic understandings. He aims to construct a 'dynamic conception of the Divine' that is intellectually rigorous and spiritually satisfying for the modern mind.
Reconciliation of Science and Religion
Swain directly addresses the perceived conflict between scientific insights and traditional religious beliefs. The book aims to demonstrate that a coherent conception of God can not only coexist with but also be enriched by modern scientific knowledge, rather than being threatened by it. It seeks to bridge this intellectual gap.

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