Exploring Existential Dilemmas

"To Be or Not to Be" vs "Not My Will but Thine Be Done"

An existential dilemma refers to a profound questioning or uncertainty about one's existence, purpose, or the meaning of life. It often involves grappling with fundamental issues such as freedom, choice, responsibility, and the inevitability of death. Existential dilemmas can arise when individuals confront the existential givens of human existence, such as isolation, meaninglessness, and the absurdity of life. These dilemmas can lead to feelings of anxiety, despair, or a search for deeper meaning and understanding. 

In the realm of literature and philosophy, two iconic passages stand out for their profound exploration of existential dilemmas: "To Be or Not to Be" from Shakespeare's "Hamlet" and "Not My Will but Thine Be Done" from the Bible. While originating from vastly different contexts, these passages share a common theme of grappling with the fundamental questions of existence and human agency. In this blog post, we'll compare and contrast these two renowned expressions of existential angst and surrender.

"To Be or Not to Be":

Shakespeare's soliloquy in "Hamlet" encapsulates the internal struggle of the protagonist as he contemplates the merits of life versus death. The opening lines “To be, or not to be, that is the question" set the stage for a meditation on the nature of existence and the fear of the unknown. Hamlet wrestles with the idea of enduring the hardships of life or ending his suffering through death, pondering the consequences of each choice.

"Not My Will but Thine Be Done":

In the Bible, specifically in the Gospel of Luke, Jesus utters the words "Not my will, but thine, be done" during his agonizing prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane before his crucifixion. Here, Jesus submits himself to the will of God, acknowledging a higher purpose beyond his own desires. This act of surrender embodies the concept of divine providence and acceptance of one's fate, even in the face of suffering and uncertainty.

Comparison:

Both passages delve into the profound existential questions of life, purpose, and agency. "To Be or Not to Be" reflects the inner turmoil of an individual struggling to find meaning and purpose amidst the challenges of existence. On the other hand, "Not My Will but Thine Be Done" portrays an ultimate surrender to a higher power, acknowledging the limitations of human understanding and the sovereignty of divine will.

Contrast:

While both passages grapple with existential dilemmas, they diverge in their approaches to resolution. In "To Be or Not to Be," the protagonist's contemplation ultimately leads to indecision and existential paralysis, highlighting the human struggle with uncertainty and fear of the unknown. Conversely, "Not My Will but Thine Be Done" embodies a sense of acceptance and surrender, trusting in a higher purpose beyond human comprehension.

"To Be or Not to Be" and "Not My Will but Thine Be Done" represent two distinct yet interconnected expressions of existential angst and surrender. Through these passages, we are invited to reflect on the complexities of human existence, the limits of human agency, and the enduring search for meaning and purpose in the face of life's uncertainties. Whether contemplating our own mortality or submitting to a higher power, these timeless expressions resonate across cultures and generations, offering insights into the human condition and the quest for transcendence.

From Doubt to Faith 

In shadows deep, where questions dwell,

Two passages, in verse they tell.

"To be, or not to be," in strife,

While "Not my will but thine be done," in life.

In Shakespeare's words, the angst is clear,

To live, to die, in doubt and fear.

The soul's turmoil, a ceaseless fight,

Amidst the darkness, seeking light.

But in the garden, 'neath olive's shade,

A different plea, by faith, was made.

"Not my will but thine," the Savior prayed,

In submission, His path He laid.

Comparing, contrasting, these paths we trace,

One wrought with doubt, the other with grace.

Yet both, in essence, speak to the soul,

Of surrender, and the search for a goal.

In "To Be or Not to Be," the human plight,

In "Not My Will," surrender's might.

Through doubt and faith, we journey on,

In search of meaning, till life is gone.

So let us ponder, let us reflect,

On life's mysteries, our souls connect.

For in the struggle, in the surrender,

We find the truth, in depths so tender.