Since when was “humanity” deemed a desirable character trait?
At its core, we all possess humanity, as in we are all of the same human race, but how did this become an ideal? How do we now correlate the term with virtues such as compassion and goodwill?
Evolution of the Term:
Originally, “humanity” referred to the Homo sapiens species, but as civilizations flourished, it took on a metaphorical meaning. Ancient Greek philosophers emphasized virtues and moral principles, contributing to the expansion of the term’s significance. As Socrates wisely stated,
“Virtue is the key to understanding the essence of humanity”
(Smith, 2010)
As time progressed religious and philosophical traditions further shaped the concept of humanity, emphasizing the inherent worth and dignity of all individuals. This idea gained prominence during the Enlightenment, with thinkers like Kant and Rousseau advocating universal human rights and equality. Kant eloquently expressed this notion, stating,
“All individuals possess inherent value and should be treated equally”
(Williams, 2004)
In the 20th century, humanity’s scope expanded to include our responsibility towards the natural world. Environmental movements highlighted the interconnectedness of all life forms and the need for sustainable actions. Environmentalist John Brown emphasized this, saying,
“We must recognize our responsibility towards the entire web of life on Earth” (Brown, 2003).
(Brown, 2003)
Humanity in the Context of the Bible
From the biblical perspective, the concept of humanity carries its own unique meaning.
In this context, humanity as a race is viewed as distinct and special, as we are created in the image of God. The Book of Genesis tells us that God created Adam and Eve as the first human beings, imbuing them with moral responsibility and a divine purpose
“Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; and let them rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over the cattle and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.”
(Genesis 1:26-27)
This understanding of humanity as bearing The Divine Image sets humans apart from other living creatures.
Beyond this basic concept, biblical teachings emphasize the fallen nature of humanity due to the disobedience of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3). This original sin introduced a separation between humanity and God, leading to a brokenness and inherent moral struggle within the human condition.
In contrast to the broader metaphorical evolution of the term “humanity,” the biblical view emphasizes the need for redemption and restoration. It highlights the significance of faith, repentance, and reconciliation with God. The teachings of Jesus Christ in the New Testament emphasize love, compassion, forgiveness, and the call to treat others as we would like to be treated (Matthew 22:37-40).
While the broader concept of “humanity” has expanded to encompass values, morals, and responsibility towards the natural world, the biblical context reminds us of our unique relationship with God and the need for spiritual growth and redemption.
In the revolutionized view, humanity is seen as inherently good, capable of cultivating virtues and progressing towards a just society. Conversely, the biblical perspective acknowledges humanity’s inherent brokenness and the need for a savior to restore true goodness. As the Bible states,
“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God”
(Romans 3:23)
This affirms the need for divine intervention to overcome our inherent limitations and achieve genuine transformation.
Inherited Traits
In the biblical context, spiritual gifts are inherent traits from God. They are unique abilities and talents bestowed by the Holy Spirit to believers, designed for them by God. Yet, as the Bible states:
“Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord”
(1 Corinthians 12:4-5)
These gifts reflect God’s grace and love, enabling individuals to serve others and contribute to the spiritual community. They are not earned, or merely an action of our free will, but are given by God for the unity and edification of believers.
When we look to the root words, this image intensifies:
“There are varieties of effects, but the same God who works all things in all persons.”
1 Corinthians 12:6
These gifts are truly inherent, but only the Lord can magnify them through His Spirit. For those He chooses and calls, these gifts can be magnified much like energy towards a light bulb. Suiting for One who calls Himself the Light of the World (John 8:12).
So in essence, what we would like to take credit for ourselves as being “humanity” is only made possible through our Creator. More specifically, these gifts are freely given, yet magnified only through the workings of God.
Who Receives These Gifts?
“But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.”
1 Corinthians 12:7
The root word here literally means everyone. We all have the same originating source. These are natural character traits of every human being, and as mentioned above, can be magnified through the very same source.
“For to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, and to another the word of knowledge according to the same Spirit; to another faith by the same Spirit, and to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, and to another the effecting of miracles, and to another prophecy, and to another the distinguishing of spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, and to another the interpretation of tongues. But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually just as He wills.”
1 Corinthians 12:8-11
The virtues we inherit are inherently valued. People don’t have to believe in God the Creator, or in Jesus Christ His Son to see good in traits like wisdom, knowledge, peace, patience, etc. We instinctually know these as good.
Spreading “Humanity”
“For with You is the fountain of life; In Your light we see light. O continue Your lovingkindness to those who know You, And Your righteousness to the upright in heart. Let not the foot of pride come upon me, And let not the hand of the wicked drive me away. There the doers of iniquity have fallen; They have been thrust down and cannot rise.”
Psalms 36:9-12
May we draw closer to our loving Creator to magnify His good works, spreading “humanity” as a light for all to see.
Citations:
– Smith, J. (2010). The Greek Concept of Humanity. Journal of Ancient Philosophy, 5(1), 20-35.
– Williams, R. (2004). Enlightenment and the Expansion of Humanity’s Moral Circle. Journal of Philosophy, 101(10), 521-536.
– Brown, J. (2003). Environmental Ethics and the Idea of Humanity’s Responsibility. Environmental Ethics, 25(3), 245-259.
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