I’ve struggled for the last 2 years to describe to my friends why I love camping. I finally discovered someone who put into words the depth of my reasons to get alone, get close to nature, and get away from my life.
Simone Weil was a French philosopher who used the word “decreation” to describe the process of self-emptying, relinquishing one’s own sense of self and existence, to better understand God and God’s creation. It’s a spiritual practice that allows for a deeper connection with God and a more accurate perception of reality.
- Self-Deprivation as a Spiritual Practice: Weil believed that true spiritual growth involves a willingness to relinquish one’s ego, desires, and attachments to the world. This “decreation” is not a denial of existence, but a shedding of the self-imposed boundaries that prevent a deeper understanding of God and creation.
- Connection to God’s Creation: She saw God as having “emptied” Himself in creation, setting aside His own divinity to bring the world into being. By imitating this process, humans can participate in creation more authentically, understanding their place within it rather than dominating it.
- Shifting Focus from Self to Other: Decreation involves turning away from self-centeredness and towards a broader, more compassionate understanding of the world and others. It’s a process of expanding one’s sense of self to encompass the entire creation.
- Consent to Necessity: Weil also linked decreation to the concept of “consent to necessity,” which involves accepting the limitations and conditions of existence rather than striving for absolute control. This acceptance, she argued, allows for a deeper appreciation of God’s creation and a more authentic participation in it.
- Distinction from Destruction: It’s crucial to note that decreation is not about destroying creation or oneself, but rather about “undoing” the self-enclosed creature within, moving from self-definition to a deeper understanding of one’s true purpose for being.
Camping empties me (like pouring out the stale contents of a bucket) and refills me with new and fresh things. By relinquishing control, I am allowing God to put whatever He wants into my head, heart and soul. The closer I get to my next camping trip, the more I crave the renewal that is about to occur.
This! My friend , has been scripted so well. I’ve had this connection with Mother Earth since I was young. It’s kept me grounded. I’m saddened by many who don’t recognize the signs. I’m glad you’re here on this journey. It’s liberating and you want to shout it from the roof tops! Join me!