It has been said that no dilemma has inflicted more damage or persistent suffering on the heart and mind of so many than the ever relevant problem of evil: can a just God allow suffering? The discussion of this problem has been brought to the forefront of philosophical debates and its implications reverberate through the lives of millions of people all over the world. Socrates famously once said, “I only know that I know nothing”. This paradoxical quote perfectly articulates the problem of evil: the knowledge and understanding of why a just God allows suffering throughout the world.
Defining the Problem of Evil
The Problem of Evil is an age-old inquiry concerning the nature of suffering and how it relates to the idea of a God that is just, loving, and all-powerful. The problem states that, if an all-powerful and loving God exists, then why does he allow the world to suffer from evil? For example, the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami claimed the lives of over 200,000 innocent people, surely a God that is just, loving and all-powerful would not allow this form of suffering to occur. This is where the problem of evil presents itself.
Arguments For and Against the Problem of Evil
When discussing this specific problem of evil, arguments have been established in both directions. For example, many religious people assert that God allows suffering because it is part of his divine plan. They say that God has a purpose and plan for humans, and that suffering is a necessary part of it. In Christianity, Jesus often mentions this exact idea, stating that “in this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” [1]. This argument is used to assert that God allows suffering because it is part of his plan, and will eventually be eradicated by him.
On the other hand, non-theistic philosophers, such as Epicurus, have argued that God actually cannot exist, because if he did, then he would not be “omnibenevolent” or, in other words, all-loving. Epicurus argued that if an all-loving God existed, then he would not allow any form of suffering and evil to exist in the world. This, according to Epicurus, proves that God does not exist because, if he did, then evil would not.[2]
The Value of Suffering and The Divine Plan
Throughout life, one’s faith can be challenged by the suffering and injustice seen in the world. It is fascinating however, that such suffering and injustice can actually lead to personal growth and greater understanding in the long-term. In fact, many believe that the pain and suffering experienced can actually lead to moral and spiritual growth, something theologians refer to as “theodicy”. Thetheologian, C.S. Lewis, explains this idea perfectly in his book “The Problem of Pain”: “God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks to us in our conscience, but shouts in our pains: it is his megaphone to rouse a deaf world” [3]. Through pain and suffering, some say that we come to learn more about God and his divine plan.
The problem of evil is a deeply controversial and theoretical topic for which there may never be an absolute answer. Some believe that the suffering and death of innocent people are part of God’s plan for mankind and that he allows it because one day it will be redeemed. Whereas others maintain that the constant evil in the world proves that God does not exist. Whatever answer is ultimately found, it remains clear that the problem of evil, and why a just God allows suffering, is a question that will remain relevant and will continue to be debated for many years to come.
Conclusion
The Problem of Evil is an age-old inquiry that has caused tremendous suffering and controversy in the world. Although arguments have circulated in both directions, the problem of evil remains a deep philosophical inquiry that can only truly be answered by faith and personal understanding. Ultimately, the problem of evil is a paradoxical topic that will leave readers questioning its implications and searching for answers.
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