What is Supranatural in Philosophy?

The term “supranatural” is often used in philosophy to describe something that is beyond the natural, the physical and the material. It is a concept that refers to a reality or existence that transcends natural laws and that cannot be explained or understood by conventional means. The supranatural is often associated with the divine, the supernatural and the metaphysical, and has been the subject of study and debate throughout the history of philosophy.

Origins and Evolution of the Concept

The idea of ​​something supernatural dates back to ancient civilizations and cultures, which believed in beings and forces beyond the physical world. In Ancient Greece, for example, the gods and goddesses of Olympus were considered supranatural beings, with powers and abilities beyond those of humans. These deities were worshiped and revered, and they were believed to influence the lives of mortals.

However, it was in the Middle Ages that the concept of supranatural gained a more religious and theological connotation. With the advent of Christianity, the belief in a single and all-powerful God brought with it the idea of ​​a divine plan beyond the earthly world. The existence of angels, demons and miracles came to be considered as manifestations of the supernatural.

Supernatural versus Natural

One of the main philosophical questions related to the supranatural is its relationship with the natural. While the natural refers to the physical, material world subject to the laws of nature, the supranatural is understood as something beyond these laws and that escapes human understanding.

This dichotomy between the natural and the supranatural has been the subject of debate throughout the history of philosophy. Some philosophers argue that the supranatural does not exist, as everything that exists can be explained by natural laws. Others defend the existence of the supranatural as a dimension beyond the physical world, which can be accessed through faith, intuition or mystical experience.

Supernatural and Religion

The relationship between the supernatural and religion is close and complex. Many religions are based on the belief in supernatural beings and forces, such as gods, angels, demons and spirits. These entities are considered as intermediaries between the earthly world and the divine, and are worshiped and revered by the faithful.

However, not all religions have the same conception of the supernatural. While some emphasize the existence of a personal and transcendent God, others have a more panentheistic view, in which the divine is present in all things and is not separated from the natural world.

Supernatural and Science

The relationship between the supranatural and science is often marked by conflicts and tensions. While science seeks to explain natural phenomena through laws and theories based on empirical evidence, the supranatural escapes conventional scientific explanations.

Some scientists argue that the supernatural is not amenable to scientific investigation, as it cannot be tested or observed objectively. Others argue that science must be open to exploring new possibilities and that the supernatural can be an object of study, as long as it is approached in a rigorous and methodological way.

Supranatural and Philosophy

The supranatural has been an object of study and reflection in philosophy over the centuries. Philosophers such as Plato, Saint Augustine, Thomas Aquinas and Immanuel Kant dedicated themselves to exploring issues related to the supranatural, seeking to understand its nature, its implications and its meaning for human existence.

Some philosophers argue that the supranatural is a projection of the human mind, a way of giving meaning and significance to the unknown and inexplicable. Others argue that the supranatural is an objective reality, which transcends the human mind and which can be accessed through reason, intuition or mystical experience.

Supernatural and Mystery

The supranatural is closely linked to mystery, to that which escapes human understanding and explanation. Mystery is an essential part of the human experience, as it confronts us with the unknown and challenges us to seek answers and meanings.

The supranatural is often associated with unexplained phenomena, such as miracles, apparitions and paranormal events. These phenomena defy natural laws and make us question the limits of human knowledge.

Supernatural and Ethics

The question of the supernatural also has ethical implications. Many religions and philosophical systems base their norms and values ​​on supranatural principles, such as divine commandments or cosmic laws.

However, supranatural ethics are not always consensual. Different religions and philosophies have different views on what is morally right and wrong, and the supernatural can play a central role in these views.

Supranatural and Personal Experience

For many people, personal experience is the starting point for belief in the supernatural. Experiences of a mystical, religious or paranormal nature can lead individuals to believe in the existence of something beyond the physical world.

These experiences can range from divine visions and revelations to encounters with supernatural beings or entities. For those who experience these experiences, they are proof of the existence of the supernatural and can have a profound impact on their lives and beliefs.

Supernatural and Rationality

The question of the supranatural is also related to rationality and reason. Often, the supranatural is seen as opposed to reason and logic, as something that cannot be explained or understood by conventional means.

However, some philosophers argue that reason and the supranatural are not necessarily incompatible. They argue that reason can be used to explore and understand the supranatural, as long as it is applied appropriately and respects its limits.

Supernatural and Meaning of Life

One of the fundamental questions related to the supernatural is its meaning for human life. Many people find meaning and purpose in believing in something beyond the physical world, as it offers them answers to the big existential questions.

The supranatural can provide a frame of reference for understanding the purpose of life, the nature of good and evil, and the ultimate destiny of human existence. For those who believe in the supernatural, it can be a source of comfort, hope, and guidance amid life's uncertainties and challenges.

Supernatural and Freedom

The issue of freedom is also related to the supernatural. Many religions and philosophical systems argue that human freedom is linked to the ability to choose between good and evil, between the natural and the supranatural.

For these views, the existence of the supranatural offers human beings the possibility of transcending the limitations of the physical world and seeking a fuller and more meaningful life. Freedom of choice is seen as a divine gift, which allows us to shape our destiny and seek our personal and spiritual fulfillment.

Supranatural and the Quest for Knowledge

The search for knowledge is one of the distinctive characteristics of human nature. The supranatural has been the object of investigation and reflection throughout history, as it represents a challenge to our understanding of the world and ourselves.

Although the supernatural may seem mysterious and inaccessible, many philosophers and scholars have dedicated themselves to exploring its dimensions and seeking answers to the questions it raises. The search for knowledge of the supranatural is an intellectual and spiritual journey, which invites us to question, reflect and expand our horizons.

Final Words

The supranatural in philosophy is a complex and fascinating topic, which has been the subject of study and debate over the centuries. He challenges us to question our conceptions of the world and explore the frontiers of human knowledge.

Although the supernatural may seem distant and inaccessible, it continues to exert a powerful fascination over the human mind. Its existence or non-existence is a question that continues to be the subject of speculation and reflection, and which may never be completely answered.

Regardless of our personal beliefs, the supernatural invites us to look beyond the physical world and seek answers to the big questions of human existence. He challenges us to explore the limits of reason and to embrace mystery and uncertainty as an integral part of our journey to knowledge and understanding the world.