Immortality

As a Christian, and disciple of Ilyin, I know only of the immortality of the soul. The duration of my life in this world, as a preparatory step to eternity, is a matter for my Creator to determine: I am in his hands. Ilyin says of the “true optimist”:

… His optimism does not pertain to mundane existence with all its tangles, alleyways, and dusty trivialities, all of its cruelty and viciousness. Everyday life can overwhelm us with its increasingly frightening burdens. Deprivations, and suffering, but this does not affect his optimism in any way, for he views these trials as steps preparing him for deliverance. He keeps in mind the spiritual problem of humankind, the fate of the world, and understands that this fate is conducted and resolved by God Himself, that it unfolds like a great  and creative living drama. This is the true and deepest source of his optimism: he knows that the world rests in the hollow of God’s hand.

Optimism

Having set out this context, and, yes, I am an optimist, I have a discipline of keeping healthy, and avoid unnecessary self destruction. This life is a gift from God, a temporary receptacle for this immortal soul, our waiting room. I despise inept efforts to prolong earthly life by pointless reliance on “transhumanism” and other absurd tricks of the wealthy faithless ghouls, more inspired by satanism than by a healthy consideration of their mortality. For me, the concept of living a very long life is an absurdity, for my Creator decides, as Ilyin explains. I take all other illusions as blasphemies, and remain a trues optimist.

The human heart

There lies the chasm between Christians, and people of other faiths, and the godless. There lies also the explanation for the many attempts, at creating early “paradises”, in reality small hells, for the very rich, or at least some of them. 

There is only one true joy on this earth: the singing of the human heart. If the heart sings, the person has almost everything – almost , because he still must save his heart from becoming disillusioned in a beloved subject and falling silent.

Mysterious depth

The heart sings when it loves; it sings from love, which flows in a living stream out of a certain mysterious depth and never runs dry, even when suffering and torment come upon it, or when the person is overtaken by misfortune, or when his death draws near, or when an evil undertaking in the world celebrates its victory and it seems that the power of kindness has died up and been condemned to death.

If the heart still sings in spite of all this, then the person has true “happiness”, which, strictly speaking, deserves a better name. Then the rest of his life seems less important; then the sun never sets, God’s rays do not forsake the soul, the Kingdom of heaven enters life on earth, and life remains blessed and transformed. And this means that a new life has begun, that the person has embarked upon a new existence…

Our heart sings at the sight of the mysteries, miracles and beauty of God’s world; when we contemplate the starry sky and perceive the universe like a harmonious summation; when human history reveals to us the sacred mystery of Providence and see the passage of God through ages of trials, labor, suffering, and inspiration; when we are present at the victory of a great and just cause.

Our heart always sings in times of total and inspired prayer…

IVAN ILYIN: PHILOSOPHER OF LAW, FORCE, AND FAITH

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A Historical Perspective

This report explores the concept of immortality in Ilyin’s philosophy, focusing on its historical relevance. It provides insights into Ilyin’s perspective on immortality and its implications within his philosophical framework.

Ilyin’s Concept of Immortality:
Ilyin views immortality as a fundamental aspect of human existence, transcending physical limitations. According to his philosophy, immortality encompasses not only the continuation of life beyond death but also the eternal significance of one’s actions and ideas.

Historical Context:
To fully grasp Ilyin’s perspective on immortality, it is crucial to consider the historical context in which his philosophy emerged. Ilyin’s ideas were shaped by the tumultuous events of the early 20th century, including the Russian Revolution and the subsequent exile of many intellectuals.

Immortality as a Philosophical Framework:
Within Ilyin’s philosophical framework, immortality serves as a guiding principle for moral and ethical conduct. It emphasizes the eternal consequences of one’s choices and actions, encouraging individuals to strive for a higher purpose and transcendence.

Implications for Education:
Understanding Ilyin’s concept of immortality can have profound implications for educators. It prompts a reevaluation of the purpose of education, emphasizing the cultivation of values and virtues that contribute to the eternal significance of individuals’ lives.

Critiques and Debates:
While Ilyin’s philosophy of immortality has garnered both praise and criticism, it remains a significant topic of debate among scholars. This report briefly touches upon some of the critiques and alternative perspectives surrounding Ilyin’s ideas.