Transcendental Beliefs

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Transcendentalism is the act of going against the norms of society in order to live a simple life. Throughout the points of individualism, self reliance and the importance of nature Transcendentalism views are not supported by the Bible. Transcendentalist views show the importance of relying solely on oneself and not on others, including God. A great example of this is in the text “Self Reliance” which states: “Trust thyself: every heart vibrates to that iron string” (Emerson 270) This states the transcendental views of relying on oneself without God. However, this view goes against what the Bible has to say about self reliance; God created humans to live for him and trust him in whatever happens. In the Bible Isaiah states: “everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made.” (Isaiah 43:7 NIV). This is saying that God created man to be in community with one another. God called us to be in community with one another and this view of Transcendentalism interferes with …show more content…
An excerpt from “Walden” has a great view on simplistic living, which is: “For as long as possible live free and uncommitted” (Thoreau Page Number). Thoreau is saying, live free with no relationships, without commitment. The Bible contradicts this idea, “Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil.” (Proverbs 15:16 NIV) Solomon is saying that it is better to have a relationship with God than to have all the riches in the world. This is different than Transcendentalist views with this idea. By changing the way of life through Transcendentalist acts many can find a huge impact regarding simplistic living, the importance of nature and self reliance. Although all of the aspects of Transcendentalism are important they all don't support what the Bible has to say about it. God wants his people to rely on him with everything and to trust that he is in