’n Reformatoriese perspektief op sin en identiteit

Abstract

This article addresses the ultimate question regarding meaning and the closely related problem of identity from a reformational vantage point. Although the human being’s central or religious identity can be distinguished from his various functional identities, the importance of personality integration (consonance between these two dimensions of identity) is stressed. The central identity of the Christian is rooted in Christ, a point of departure which means reconciliation with God and provides the basis for reconciliation with himself with his neighbour and with creation as a whole, thus eliminating in principle the alienation that has characterised each of these relations since the fall. A person’s religious orientation towards the true Origin functions as a necessary condition for his awareness of creation as meaningful, i.e. its dependence on its Creator. In identity development the historical principles of continuity, differentiation and integration are important. Reference is made to various aspects of identity, like self-image, -knowledge and -trust, as well as to the importance of Scriptural revelation of creation, fall and redemption for a true view on the human self and on a person’s functional identities. It is pointed out that differing answers to the question of meaning are implicitly present in scientific theories. A person's ultimate commitment may thus not be isolated from his scientific endeavours.