Well-analyzed Response to Fear and Trembling: Kierkegaard’s Conception of Abraham’s Dilemma

In his influential work, Fear and Trembling, Kierkegaard, writing under the pseudonym Johannes de Silencio, explores the biblical narrative of Abraham and his profound dilemma. Kierkegaard posits that Abraham embodies either a knight of faith or is utterly lost, disconnected from societal understanding. He argues that Abraham's journey transcends the universal ethical framework and plunges into the realm of the absurd, rendering him incomprehensible to others. This essay delves into Kierkegaard's interpretation, examining the paradox of faith that defines Abraham's actions and the implications of his moral struggle.

The Paradox of Faith and Abraham’s Dilemma

Kierkegaard's central thesis revolves around the paradox of faith, which he articulates as "the single individual as the particular standing in an absolute relationship to the absolute." This statement captures the essence of Abraham's predicament. Kierkegaard asserts that Abraham's faith is characterized by a profound internal conflict, where he must choose between his love for his son Isaac and his obedience to God. This conflict illustrates the tension between the ethical (universal) and the religious (individual). To Kierkegaard, Abraham's faith is paradoxical; he believes he can sacrifice Isaac while simultaneously trusting in God's promise of restoration. This leads to Kierkegaard's conclusion that Abraham is either a knight of faith or lost to the ethical community.

Counterarguments: Tragic Hero, Aesthetic Hero, and Knight of Infinite Resignation

Several counterarguments arise when assessing Abraham's status in Kierkegaard's framework. The first is the notion of Abraham as a tragic hero. A tragic hero is typically defined as a character who faces a moral dilemma, sacrificing personal desires for the greater good, ultimately leading to their own suffering. In Abraham's case, however, the act of sacrificing Isaac does not benefit anyone; it is purely an act of faith in defiance of ethical norms. This disqualifies him from being labeled a tragic hero, as his actions cannot be justified in the context of societal ethics.

Another potential comparison is to categorize Abraham as an aesthetic hero, someone who lives for pleasure and personal fulfillment. However, Kierkegaard emphasizes that aesthetic existence lacks commitment and is based on superficial values. Abraham's unwavering commitment to God and the profound sacrifice he is willing to make for his faith contradict the very essence of an aesthetic hero. He is not swayed by appearances or personal gain; instead, his actions stem from a deep conviction that transcends aesthetic considerations.

Lastly, some may suggest that Abraham could be seen as a knight of infinite resignation. This concept describes an individual who resigns themselves to an unattainable love or ideal, embodying self-sufficiency and eternal sorrow. Yet, Abraham's belief in the potential restoration of Isaac after the sacrifice reflects a hope that contradicts the notion of infinite resignation. He does not resign himself to despair but rather anticipates divine intervention. Thus, the knight of infinite resignation is an inadequate label for Abraham.

Understanding Kierkegaard’s Conclusion

Given the insufficiencies of these counterarguments, Kierkegaard's assertion that Abraham is either a knight of faith or lost remains compelling. The following table summarizes the characteristics of each potential classification:

In conclusion, Kierkegaard's exploration of Abraham's dilemma reveals the intricate relationship between faith, ethics, and individual identity. By framing Abraham's story within the paradox of faith, Kierkegaard challenges readers to confront the complexities of belief and the potential for divine absurdity. Abraham's actions cannot be neatly categorized within traditional ethical frameworks, emphasizing the unique nature of faith that transcends societal understanding. Ultimately, Kierkegaard's analysis compels us to acknowledge the profound implications of faith in the human experience, highlighting the tension between the individual and the universal.

References

Kierkegaard, S. (1986). Fear and Trembling. Princeton University Press.

Robertson, J. (2008). Kierkegaard's Philosophy: A Very Short Introduction. Oxford University Press.

Stewart, J. (2015). The Ethical and the Aesthetic in Kierkegaard's Thought. Cambridge University Press.