abian Philosophy

In our culture we are conditioned to be wary of being too spontaneous. We are taught that it is a sign of emotions running rampant. This cultural attitude is based on the false premise that human nature is inherently evil and, if allowed free expression, would surely lead to destructive behavior. Sabian philosophy teaches otherwise. There is an assumption in this philosophy that human nature is fundamentally good and, when properly nurtured, can be trusted to act, even spontaneously, in conformity with right reason.  There are, of course, examples of spontaneous behavior that appear to inherently destructive, as in the crimes and passions of much of our society. But this is the result of a society that has made self-interest its primary motivating factor.   Such destructive behavior does not change the inherent goodness of human nature.

Sabian philosophy teaches that spontaneity or enthusiasm or drive is a power inherent in human will and is the urge behind all achievement. In Christian teaching, this is the work of the Holy Spirit as intermediary between God and man. As this drive is conditioned with a care-for-others attitude, human will becomes a constructive rather than destructive force.

This approach to creative living is based on Ibn Gabirol’s Fountain of Life Book I, Chapter 7. Here the Teacher declares that there are three basic considerations in all of philosophy, namely, every effect is the result of a cause and it is will that is the intermediary between the two. The idea of will as the primary factor in all creative act has tremendous ramifications for us in our daily lives. If we want to lead a productive life of social merit and to grow in the life of the spirit, all that is required is that we just do it!

A practical application of the concept of spontaneity would be to "do something spontaneous." It may be out of character to act so spontaneously, and may even be somewhat embarrassing, but through it you will learn to trust your inherent good will towards others.