The word “essence” refers to the fundamental nature or inherent quality of something. It represents the core, intrinsic characteristics or qualities that define the existence of an object, concept, or being. In philosophical terms it often relates to the fundamental and unchanging aspects that make something what it is.
So if I have an essence? What is it? Who am I? What makes me different than any other human being? And reflection upon essence takes us into the realm of existentialism, where the search for meaning becomes a goal of self-discovery.
In the world of existentialism, individuals are not predestined to follow a certain path, but rather, individuals come into existence…and then their essence is defined along the way. Existence precedes essence. This simple but profound assertion states that we are not bound by fate, genetics or societal expectations. That instead we each have the freedom to define our own essence, to shape our identities and to choose our paths. Each day is a search for meaning…the answer Why am I here?
The search for the meaning in life is as old as history. Is there an objective purpose to life, or is it merely a chaotic dance of molecules and atoms? Existentialists lean toward the latter, suggesting that objective meaning is elusive, if not non-existent. And then existentialism goes further, despite if there is, or is not, an objective meaning to life; there is most certainly subjective meaning. Existentialist thinkers prompt us to reflect on what truly matters to us as individuals. What passions ignite us? What values ground us? What kind of life do we desire? These questions, rather than looking for universal answers, can be answered by each of us, with no wrong answers, to help us find our own unique purpose in life.
The definition of essence, within an existentialist journey, isn’t about uncovering some grand, universal truth; it’s about crafting a narrative for ourselves. The “why” can only be answered at an individual level. Some argue that the search for meaning is a Sisyphean task, an endless pursuit leading to existential despair. However, others find solace in this task. It’s in our nature to seek meaning, or we wouldn’t be able to think it. So why not try to discover a unique purpose that resonates with our hearts?
In the end, the essence of existence is not a fixed destination, but a constantly flowing journey. We may never find some ultimate, objective meaning to believe our existence a part of. But why not explore the beauty along the way. And if we exist to live, then finding the “why” we live is an individual quest. The search for meaning is meaningful in itself.