“He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.” — Ecclesiastes 3:11
According to Jewish tradition, King Solomon wrote the book of Ecclesiastes. Together with Job, Psalms, Proverbs and Song of Songs, it comprises the books of wisdom, a collection of poetry that explores the human condition.
Teachings on wisdom from the wisest man to live is likely worth reading, especially considering the human soul remains relatively unchanged from the souls of our ancestors, forever pursuing a quest for significance. Technology may progress to new spheres, but our hearts are still struggling with the same questions as they were centuries ago.
The Proverbs have served as a comforting reference during this season at NUHS. But I find the inexplicable feeling of peace in my darkest nights, or equally mysterious twinge of grief during my brightest hours, is best revealed by this small yet mighty concept that is subtly tucked into chapter three of Ecclesiastes.
The verse lends understanding to much of what is dissonant in human experience. We are told that all of us have “eternity in the heart” and yet, “no one can fathom it.” If that is the case, it is no wonder we experience clashing sensations and mysterious paradoxes.
We are told that at our deepest level, we yearn to be in another state altogether. One where we are fully known, absolutely worthy, and truly accepted – naked and unashamed as it is expressed in Genesis. And yet, we cannot fully grasp it.
As Dr. Timothy Keller writes, “We sense a reality that exists outside time and we long for it. We long for life and love without parting, for final triumph over evil, for many things this world cannot give.”
Perhaps this is why humans are inexorably drawn to story, especially those that recount other worlds, and the battle between good and evil. As naturopathic doctors, it is essential to understand this proclivity of the soul. As the saying goes, sometimes people need stories more than food to stay alive.
How can we help our patients find meaning in their own stories and the places they keep within their families and greater communities? I haven’t figured this out yet. But I do know that the concept of eternity abiding in the core of every heart is a good place to start.
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