“Paul Tillich - Loneliness & Solitude: "And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain to pray: and when the evening was come, he was alone" - Matthew 14.23. 'He was there alone.' So are we. Man [humankind] is alone because he/[she] is man [human]. In some way every creature is alone...Loneliness can be conqured only by those who can bear solitude (1973:15 & 20).To overcome 'our' sense of aloness is a life long pursuite - let us not despair in its pursuite!”
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Modern Relevance of Paul Tillich's Reflection on Loneliness and Solitude
In today's fast-paced, hyper-connected world, Paul Tillich’s insights on loneliness and solitude remain profoundly relevant. Despite constant digital interactions and social media presence, many people experience a deep sense of isolation—a loneliness that technology cannot fully alleviate. Tillich reminds us that solitude is an inherent part of the human condition, and true overcoming of loneliness comes not from avoiding being alone, but from learning to embrace and bear solitude.
This perspective encourages mindfulness and self-reflection in an era often marked by distraction and superficial connections. It highlights the importance of cultivating inner strength and resilience, suggesting that the journey to overcoming loneliness is ongoing and requires patience and compassion towards oneself. Tillich’s message offers hope: rather than despairing over feelings of aloneness, we can view them as opportunities for growth, deeper understanding, and authentic connection with both ourselves and others.
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“Our language has wisely sensed these two sides of man’s being alone. It has created the word “loneliness” to express the pain of being alone. And it has created the word “solitude” to express the glory of being alone. Although, in daily life, we do not always distinguish these words, we should do so consistently and thus deepen our understanding of our human predicament.”
“Language has created the word “loneliness” to express the pain of being alone. And it has created the word “solitude” to express the glory of being alone.”
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“The theologian Paul Tillich wrote that "loneliness can be conquered only by those who can bear solitude." Because the borderline finds solitude so difficult to tolerate, she is trapped in a relentless metaphysical loneliness from which the the only relief comes from of the physical presence of others. So she will often rush to singles bars or with crowded haunts, often with disappointing--or even violent--results.”