The Purpose of life — Theism vs. Agnostic vs. Atheism

What is the purpose of life? What is the meaning of Life? How SHOULD we spend our time on this earth? All timeless questions that have riddled mankind for quite some time. I’d like to take my shot at an answer…

I believe that there are three possible answers to this set of questions depending on your beliefs in God or a single supernatural power. You either believe (theist), don’t believe (atheist) or believe that you don’t know or can’t know (agnostic).

Actually, I believe that Gnostic/Agnostic is a statement of knowledge and theist/atheist is a statement of belief. I think that many people use the word agnostic as a quasi-third choice in the atheist/theist answer set.

I believe that each of us is best served if we SOLIDLY choose one of these three paths (really only 2 in my opinion). Yes, this typically does mean serious introspection and a willingness to put in the time and effort required to choose one of these paths.

Once your path is chosen, some of the answer should become apparent.

Theists – Altruism, giving back, service to god, charity, piety, god-given moral code

Atheist – Personal happiness, service to oneself, personal-not-religion-provided moral code

Agnostic – Unable to decide on either of the above two paths.

The point of this whole discussion is to create a starting-point or anchor to base the rest of your life’s decisions off of. Its kind of like building a house of cards. You must start with a foundation to build from. Your particular building will be based off of your own personal beliefs, values and opinions of your life and your place within the world.

If your a theist, search out the true definition of your “highest calling”. Be true to that definition. Spend your time following the path that leads to the achievement of that definition.

If your an atheist, determine how your life SHOULD be lead. Determine the definition of your “highest moral code”. Spend your time following the path that leads to the achievement of that definition.

If your agnostic, I think you may have a more difficult journey. Theism and atheism differ in so many ways, however BOTH end up with a solid “magnetic north” that each individual can use their own compass to find the right path. In my opinion, being agnostic is like having a compass but without a magnetic pole to align the needle towards. In any event, find the definition of what YOU believe to be your highest moral purpose and spend your time following the path that leads to the achievement of that definition.

What do YOU believe to be YOUR “highest moral purpose?”