0 – ZERO
(NONE, EMPTINESS, VOID)
The concept of zero, though not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, holds profound theological significance within Church teaching and Scripture. This exploration delves into the spiritual dimensions of nothingness, emptiness, and void as presented in Sacred Scripture and Christian tradition.
THE CONCEPT OF ZERO IN SCRIPTURE
While the numeral zero does not appear in the Bible, the themes of nothingness or emptiness are pervasive throughout sacred texts. The Bible offers several examples:
“In the beginning, when God created the heavens and the earth – and the earth was without form or shape, with darkness over the abyss and a mighty wind sweeping over the waters” (Gen 1:1-2). This passage depicts a primordial void from which God brings forth all creation.
The serpent’s deceptive question to Eve in Genesis 3:1, “Did God really say, ‘You shall not eat from any of the trees in the garden’?” implies a state of total prohibition, twisting God’s generous allowance into a false image of divine restriction.
In Isaiah 45:5, God proclaims His uniqueness: “I am the LORD, there is no other, there is no God besides me.” This declaration emphasizes the absence of other deities, reinforcing the concept of monotheism.
CATHOLIC TEACHING ON NOTHINGNESS AND CREATION
Catholic theology expands on the biblical concept of nothingness in relation to creation and human existence:
Creation ex nihilo: The Church teaches that God created the universe out of nothing (‘ex nihilo’). The Catechism of the Catholic Church states: “We believe that God needs no pre-existent thing or any help in order to create, nor is creation any sort of necessary emanation from the divine substance” (CCC 296). This doctrine underscores God’s omnipotence and the radical dependence of all creation on the Creator.
Spiritual emptiness: St. John of the Cross, a Doctor of the Church, describes the “dark night of the soul,” a spiritual state of emptiness that paradoxically leads to union with God. This concept suggests that experiencing nothingness can be a pathway to deeper spiritual growth.
Human nothingness before God: Catholic spirituality emphasizes humility and recognition of our nothingness before God. St. Thérèse of Lisieux wrote, “Jesus, help me to simplify my life by learning what you want me to be – and becoming that person.”
REFLECTION
The concept of zero or nothingness in Catholic teaching offers several important lessons for Christians today:
1. Humility: Recognizing our nothingness before God cultivates true humility, allowing us to rely more fully on God’s grace.
2. Gratitude: Understanding that everything comes from God, even our very existence, should inspire profound gratitude for all we have received.
3. Trust in Divine Providence: Just as God created the universe from nothing, He can bring good out of seemingly empty or hopeless situations in our lives.
4. Openness to God’s will: Emptying ourselves of selfish desires and preconceptions creates space for God to work in and through us.
5. Appreciation of creation: Reflecting on creation *ex nihilo* should deepen our wonder at the natural world and our responsibility as stewards of creation.
While the concept of zero may seem abstract, its spiritual implications are deeply relevant to our faith journey. By embracing our nothingness before God, we paradoxically find our true worth and purpose. As St. Paul reminds us, “I have been crucified with Christ; yet I live, no longer I, but Christ lives in me” (Gal 2:20). In this emptying of self, we find the fullness of life in Christ.
By reflecting on these themes, we, as Christians, are called to a deeper understanding of our relationship with God and His creation. Embracing the concept of nothingness allows us to see the boundless potential of God’s love and grace in our lives, reminding us that in Him, we find our true identity and purpose.