The transition from the Christian supernatural and metahistorical idea to the natural-historical idea of the Enlightenment era (An introduction to Hegel's historicist thought)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
morteza saeidi abueshaqi 1
Hasan Mehrnia 2
Ali Fathi 1
1 UT
2 assistant profesor
10.30470/phm.2024.2022112.2500
Abstract
According to Christian teachings, it is believed that God has a superhistorical and supernatural plan for humanity and the world. Throughout history, this plan unfolds, guided by divine providence and predestined truth. This idea has been explored and explained by various thinkers, such as Augustine in his work "City of God," and other European philosophers in their intellectual and philosophical systems.

However, with the advent of the Age of Enlightenment, there was a shift in this historical-theological view, reaching its culmination in the thought of Hegel. While Hegel acknowledges the concept of divine providence in history, influenced by Vico, he rejects the idea of a supernatural God or soul. Instead, he analyzes history in an immanent and eternal manner, emphasizing the unity of the infinite and the finite within the world.

In Hegel's framework, the relationship between the world and divine providence does not portray God as solely divine and absolute, while the world remains mysterious and silent. Rather, it presents a vision of a secular, worldly, and human-like God. This perspective removes the external, supernatural, and transcendent guardianship from humanity, placing emphasis on human intellect and wisdom. According to Hegel, humans determine their purpose a priori in history, and their plans unfold within the course of history.

It is important to note that this interpretation reflects Hegel's philosophical perspective and may not align with all Christian beliefs or interpretations.

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