Article July 31, 1915 Issue

Understanding

WILLIAM HALE COOMBER

In the book of Proverbs much is said as to the desirability of obtaining understanding. For instance, we read, "Understanding shall keep thee: to deliver thee from the way of the evil man;" and again, "With all thy getting get understanding." Through the illumination of the Scriptures by the study of Christian Science, a clearer apprehension of the meaning of the word understanding is obtained. It is discerned that the great need of mankind is to obtain a correct knowledge of the true nature of God, man, and the universe, and how to apply this knowledge in human experience to the overcoming of evil of every description with good. We find that an accurate and scientific understanding of God, and of man's relation to Him, if faithfully applied, is our aid and safeguard at all times, in all ways, and under all circumstances.

Understanding is defined as a "full and clear knowledge or mastery of." Through lack of understanding of the power and availability of God, good, and through failure to comprehend the unreality and powerlessness of evil, and how to overcome its seeming presence, mankind have become the victims of evil in every direction. Does not this show that the understanding of how to avail one's self of merely material knowledge, ways, and means, is not sufficient to meet the needs of men and to guide them safely through every experience?

In "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" Mrs. Eddy points the way to this understanding. Referring to man, she says, "He reflects the infinite understanding" (p. 253), and she has written much else to help us to grasp in a greater degree the corelationship of divine Principle, Love, and the spiritual idea, the real man.

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