Mar 244 min read

Fate vs Free Will

It is human nature to ponder the question: Do we truly forge our own paths through life's journeys, charting each twist and turn by the powers of individual will and choice? Or are we merely marionettes, our strings pulled by the unseen forces of destiny, playing out a script already written by the hands of fate? This thought-provoking question has been the subject of intense debate among philosophers, religious figures, and intellectuals for centuries.

In this article, I will discuss two opposing, incredibly complex concepts: fate and free will.

I am RayCee the Artist, a professional portrait photographer, event photographer, and wedding photographer, digital artist, and graphic designer, and if you would like to schedule a photoshoot with me or need me to create beautiful artwork and designs for you, please contact me at raycee@rayceeartist.com!

Also, be sure to follow me on Instagram and YouTube!

Understanding Fate and Free Will

The Concept of Fate

Fate is often understood as a predetermined course of events beyond human control. A fatalistic view believes that no matter what one does, the outcome of life is preordained by some supernatural power. This viewpoint is often associated with religious individuals who believe in divine providence or destiny. They believe that a higher power has a predetermined plan for each individual. In this perspective, everything that happens is part of this grand plan, and individuals are merely actors playing out their roles.

The Concept of Free Will

On the other hand, the concept of free will holds that individuals are the architects of their own destiny. Advocates of this perspective believe that they have complete control over their actions and decisions, and hence, shape their own lives. There is no supernatural power determining their course of life. This viewpoint is closely associated with liberal thought and humanism, emphasizing individual choice and responsibility.

The Philosophical Debate: Fate vs Free Will

The philosophical debate around fate vs free will is a complex and intricate one. It explores the extent to which individuals have control over their own lives and questions whether life is governed by fate or free will.

Fate Proponents

Those who believe in fate argue that the universe and life events are ordered and predetermined. This group comprises many religious people who believe in divine providence or destiny. They argue that everything in life happens for a reason, and it is all part of a grand divine plan.

"God drew a circle in the sand exactly around the spot where you are standing now. You were never not coming here." - Sufi Poem

This viewpoint suggests that our lives are mapped out for us, and we are merely walking the path that has been laid out.

Free Will Advocates

Advocates of free will, on the other hand, believe that individuals have complete control over their lives. In their view, life is not predetermined by any higher power or destiny but is shaped by individual choices and actions.

"God said to the nation of Israel: 'I have put life and death before you...and you must choose life.'" - Deuteronomy 30:19, 20

This perspective empowers human beings to take control of their lives and make choices that align with their passions, desires, and values.

The Middle Ground: A Combination of Fate and Free Will

Some thinkers propose a middle ground by suggesting that life is governed by a combination of both fate and free will. They argue that while some events in life are predetermined and beyond personal control, individuals still have the freedom to make choices in response to these events.

A classic example of this viewpoint is the story of an old man in a storm, who believed that God would protect him from a predicted storm. Despite multiple opportunities to escape the storm, the man refused, believing in divine protection. Ultimately, he drowned, and when he asked God why he didn't help him, God replied:

"I sent your brother, your neighbor, and even a boat; but you declined my help."

This story demonstrates the interplay of fate and free will. While the storm (fate) was predetermined, the old man had the free will to decide his response, which ultimately determined his outcome.

Develop Your Destiny: Create Your Own Path

Despite the complex nature of the fate vs free will debate, one thing is clear: we have a certain degree of control over our lives. Even if some events are predetermined, how we respond to these events is within our control.

Look for Signs

The universe is constantly in communication with us. Intuition is a powerful tool that can guide us in making decisions. Acknowledging these signs and taking action can help shape our destiny.

Follow Your Passion

Align your life with your passion. The closer you are to living your passion, the closer you are to fulfilling your life's purpose. Do what makes you come alive.

Have Faith

Faith is believing in something, even in the absence of evidence. Having faith can provide you with the strength to overcome challenges and guide you towards your destiny.

Work Hard

Fulfilling your life's purpose requires hard work. Success is the result of consistent effort and perseverance. The harder you work, the closer you get to your destiny.

Conclusion

The debate between fate and our own free will is an ongoing one with no definitive answer. However, it is crucial to remember that while we may not control everything that happens to us, we do control how we respond to it. Our actions, decision making process, life experiences, and attitudes can shape our destiny and define who we are.

Whether you believe in fate, free will, or a combination of both, the most important thing is to live a life that aligns with your values and passions.

Feel free to read my article "Premonition Movie" to learn about a great movie that deals with the concept of fate vs free will.