God is not dead in the traditional sense, but rather dead for the masses and organized religion. In today’s world, we’ve been exposed to countless religions, each with its own rules, prophets, and even different gods. While religion initially served to guide people toward a higher moral standard during times of wrongdoing, it has also imposed limitations. It was created not only to provide moral structure but also to control, binding people to its rules.
Religion instilled morality in society, which wasn’t inherently negative. Looking back through history, religion helped stop many atrocities, even shaping laws as society evolved. However, we also see how religion has been used to justify horrific actions. The phrase "God is dead" reflects the idea that these traditional frameworks have become too restrictive, preventing human growth. When you consider it, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. People can live morally without religion, although some still find comfort and guidance in it. I’m not saying religion is entirely wrong, but rather that all religions have become outdated.
Thus spoke a wise man, who wrote about the meaning of existence, arguing that it is not to be found in religious rituals or blind submission to authority, but in an all-encompassing life force: passion, the unknown, and freedom.
Thus Spoke Zarathustra
This man spent 10 years in solitude, reflecting deeply on life and observing the world. Through this period of self-reflection, he gained a profound understanding of morality and self-awareness. While he acknowledged the existence of a Creator, he realized that he, too, had the power to shape his path—much like a god. His personal struggles made him mentally stronger, though he grew disillusioned with the inability of people to change.
The Overman
The Overman, or Übermensch, is a person who transcends societal constraints and focuses on self-improvement. This individual does not complain about their suffering but instead empathizes with the suffering of others. The Overman does not need religion to uphold strong morals; morality comes naturally. The Übermensch is not swayed by public opinion or bias, as they have the clarity to see beyond it and grow through self-reflection and observation.
Some may argue that this concept has been misused by those who promote harmful ideologies, but the true Übermensch mindset does not recognize nations or borders, it sees the world as a whole. There is no space for racism, bigotry, or exclusion. The focus is on progress, and through this growth, society can evolve to the next level. Think of when humanity created the first automobile or launched its first rocket into space, the Übermensch moves with that same spirit of evolution.
When a whole nation shouts about its religion and proclaims its greatness, while simultaneously attacking and demeaning others in its name, they claim that God is with them. In reality, they are the very ones responsible for the death of religion. Their words and actions, used falsely in the name of God, have contributed to the collapse of faith. This signifies the need for the Übermensch to emerge. This is when the Ubermensch will rise in humanity. Only the individual can bring this about, and it must come from within. Help from others is valuable and can strengthen the individual, but the ultimate goal remains: overcoming oneself. You could say that the Übermensch emerges during the time of enlightenment, born from one's inner insight.
In the end, it is the hypocrites, those who shout about religion while living contrary to its teachings, who have killed God. Jesus himself was an Übermensch. He exemplified the Overman, forging his path. When people spat on him, he responded with love and joy, embracing their hatred with grace. Jesus sought solitude to understand humanity better. He faced temptation in every form, and yet he overcame it all.
Thus spoke Zarathustra:
God is dead—and you killed him.