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Pensées

Blaise Pascal

Blaise Pascal (1623-1662), was an eminent and highly influencial French philosopher, mathematician, scientist, and theologian. Born in Clermont, he was educated by his father in Paris and Rouen. He distinguished himself in scientific research, including the invention of a calculating machine in 1642. Around the year 1646, he experienced his first conversion, under the influence of the writings of Jansen and Duvergier. He continued on with mathematical studies, helping to lay the foundation for differential and integral calculus. In 1653, he underwent a "second" conversion, and became associated with the Cistercian abbey of Port-Royal-des-Champs – an important center of Jansenist thought, focused on spiritual perfection as a result of renunciation and transformation of the heart. In this context, Pascal was spurred to defend Port-Royal and the Arnauld family against Jesuit attacks (his Provincial Letters, 1655-7). His great theological work, never completed, is expressed in Pensées.

Pascal's classic testament to mankind's need of God, a work of both scientific and spiritual perception.

This work is a summation of Pascal's theological notes at the time of his death, edited and published posthumously in 1670. Pascal had long nursed a desire to see atheists and philosophers converted to the Christian faith, and had written much in preparation of a major theological work to this end. His own spirituality was shaped by two major forces – scientific study and Jansenist mysticism, which allowed him to see and express most profoundly the limitation of both science and humanity against the infinite. His famous "Wager" (section 3 of the Pensées) involves human reason, but indeed begins where reason ends with a "leap of faith" across the infinite abyss between God and man. The faith and truth of Christianity is confirmed by Biblical prophecy, miracles, and in the person of Christ. Pascal's own paradox of belief – in man's grandeur and wretchedness – is a deeply felt fusion of humanism and spirituality which continues to inspire.

Theology & Doctrine

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