Im surprised this hadnt occurred to me sooner... So, those of you familiar with Douglas Adams work understand the significance of the number 42. It occurred to me today, contemplating matters related to this very number, that humankind has made a most erroneous misinterpretation of the supposed answer to life, the universe, and everything. See, most of us have read this number as forty-two - a relatively accurate mathematical reading of these two juxtaposed digits, but one that misses their potential meaning in the grand scheme of things. Might I suggest reading them simply as the individual digits - four-two - as in the phrase, for two. And in this reading, the numbers (numbers?) significance as pertains to the universe becomes clear - that is, that the universe was made for two. That the whole of existence is bound up in the concept of mutuality. That we cannot exist without each other, and more to wit, that we exist for each others sake. Compassion, understanding, love - these are the forces that bind the universe and serve to guide sentient existence. I dare say, this concept is even Biblical. Think back to Genesis - God made the whole of creation, including Man, and saw that it was all very good. And then He says something interesting - It is not good that Man should be alone. The first imperfection God notices in His otherwise perfect creation - and one He quickly remedied - was mans solitude therein. Moreover, He provided the first couple with a lush, verdant home, in which all their needs would be provided for, as long as they tended it and met certain other conditions (I think we know how that turned out, but thats another story). Thus did the first couple live in a world that was truly built for two. It is easy to get caught up in ones own problems and affairs. Dont forget the people around you, who struggle with heavy burdens day after day. The smallest act of compassion can make a huge difference in the world. We exist not for ourselves, but for those who will inevitably require our aid - and we theirs. *42*
Posted on: Thu, 27 Mar 2014 03:36:44 +0000
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