Erich Fromm from the richness of his knowledge especially in psychology has intensively stated and argued human needs in diverse ways that almost at some instances conflict and agree with Biblical teachings. He argues that the core task of man in life is “to give birth to himself, to become what he potentially is”. He argues that the essential factor that usually makes one to be who he/she wants to be is he (Fromm, 2011). This is equally argued in the bible, but it puts more emphasizes on thoughts that make an individual of who thinks he is. Bible states that “As a man thinks in his heart, so is he” implying man’s thoughts have the power either to form or destroy him in this worldly life (Proverbs 23: 7). Becoming who one intends to be takes effort in trying to maintain good and uniformed thinking that will catapult to where one wants (Fromm, 2011).
Arguing on relatedness Erich, states that man should have a deeper sense in keeping the relationships she has, via high sense of respect on those around him. Hence, respecting others and their opinions even, though, at some times they may differ with what ours (Fromm, 2011). Biblical teachings still hold on the similar implication, but go deeper to extend of assuming the reciprocation is turned to the doer. For instance, “loving another as you” Which ought to be much engraved in each man for better living (Mathew 22:39). Erich still states that humanity has the power to be creative and make life as intriguing as he so wishes (Transcendence) (Fromm, 2011). This according to the bible is not possible, since it is the work of God who manipulates circumstances where power and creativity belongs to Him but not humanity.
Speaking on “rootedness” or” belonging” Erich’s argument is similar to that of Christianity where both implies belonging to fellow humanity. In this, people identity themselves with a certain group of family (Fromm, 2011). This is evident in the Bible that makes people of common believe feel they have some uniqueness that bids them together. It is also in the “sense of identity” that enables uniqueness entity but belongs to a group of believers. The Bible states that each is “fearfully and wonderfully made,” hence drawing a unique characteristic of an individual (Psalms 139: 14).
Bible in understanding the world and location we are in is not that emphasized, but mainly in the spiritual world. The message is only for the chosen ones (True Christians) who are in constant combat with the evil in order to overcome it and make it to heaven. Conversely, Erich while arguing on the “Frame of orientation” emphasizes the fact of knowing one’s surroundings, which in his case it is physical and not spiritual (Fromm, 2011).
Unity according the Bible is oneness that all humanity ought to maintain and especially those of one faith, in adhering to what their master Jesus Christ commanded them; “That all may be one…” (John 17: 21 – 23). Equally, Erich still argues on the same line, but the essence here is, he does not go overboard of in specifying whom should we hold close relationships with but emphasizes it generally. This implies that the whole global citizen must strive to maintain unity (Fromm, 2011). Biblically, due to individual decisions on which path one ought to purse to reach heaven, Christ in one of his parables stated that he did not come to bring peace/unit, but division (Luke 12: 51). Finally, Erich in his explanation about effectiveness implied the call to be proficient in all what one does but Biblically it is only through God that one becomes so.
References
Fromm, E. (2011).The Revolution of Hope. New York: Lantern Books.
Jalic Inc. (2000- 2011). King James Version. Retrieved on 08, 11 2011. http://www.online- literature.com/bible/bible.php
