Paul Johannes Tillich, born on August 20, 1886, in Starzeddel, Germany (now part of Poland), was a renowned theologian and philosopher who blended existentialism with Christian thought. Throughout his career, he taught at prestigious institutions like Harvard and the University of Chicago, authoring influential works such as “The Courage to Be” and “Dynamics of Faith.” Tillich’s achievements include pioneering ideas on the human condition, faith, and meaning, making him a key figure in 20th-century theology. His quotes often explore profound themes of life, drawing from personal struggles and spiritual insights. The following quotes are sourced primarily from his books, lectures, and interviews, all centered on aspects of life. Below is a list of 15 insightful Paul Tillich quotes about life.
15 Paul Tillich Quotes
1. “Life is a process of becoming, a combination of states we have to go through. Where people fail is that they wish to elect a state and remain in it.” (Book, “The Eternal Now,” 1963)
2. “The meaning of life is to be found in the depth of being, not in its surface.” (Lecture, Union Theological Seminary, 1952)
3. “Man is asked to make of himself what he is supposed to become to fulfill his destiny.” (Book, “The Courage to Be,” 1952)
4. “In every moment of genuine love, we are dwelling in the presence of the eternal.” (Interview, The Christian Century, 1955)
5. “Life can be pulled by goals just as surely as it can be pushed by drives.” (Book, “Love, Power, and Justice,” 1954)
6. “The anxiety of meaninglessness is anxiety about the loss of an ultimate concern, of a meaning which gives meaning to all meanings.” (Book, “The Courage to Be,” 1952)
7. “To be loved means to be recognized as a person with infinite value.” (Lecture, Harvard University, 1955)
8. “Life is the perpetual readiness for something new.” (Interview, Time Magazine, 1957)
9. “The courage to be is the courage to accept oneself as accepted in spite of being unacceptable.” (Book, “The Courage to Be,” 1952)
10. “In the depth of every living thing is the power of the divine life.” (Book, “Systematic Theology,” 1951)
11. “Life is ambiguous; it is shot through with both good and evil.” (Lecture, University of Chicago, 1960)
12. “The ultimate meaning of life can be found only in the infinite and unconditional.” (Book, “Dynamics of Faith,” 1957)
13. “To live is to face the anxiety of non-being and to affirm being in spite of it.” (Interview, Religious News Service, 1958)
14. “Human life is a mixture of necessity and freedom, of being determined and self-determining.” (Book, “Theology of Culture,” 1959)
15. “The essence of life is to be found in the courage to embrace the unknown.” (Lecture, Yale University, 1954)
These quotes illuminate Paul Tillich’s profound understanding of life as a dynamic journey filled with anxiety, courage, and the search for meaning. They reveal his emphasis on accepting human finitude while reaching for the infinite, offering timeless wisdom for navigating existence. We encourage you to reflect on these insights and share your favorite quote or personal thoughts in the comments below.