# Discovering Purpose: Insights into Human Uniqueness and Meaning
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Chapter 1: Understanding Purpose
Human beings are endowed with a profound sense of purpose, a gift from God in the form of His Neshama. As we are created in His image, it stands to reason that we too possess this vital attribute.
Humans stand apart as unique entities on Earth, holding the exclusive ownership of the God-given spirit known as Neshama (Genesis 2:7, the breath of life). This spirit grants us divine understanding (Job 38:2), which can also be interpreted as perception and discernment (H995). This forms the foundation of our consciousness and awareness.
God has shared a fragment of His Divine Consciousness with humanity, reflecting His image in each of us. The early chapters of Genesis highlight five essential characteristics that differentiate humans from animals and elevate us to a divine level: purpose, behavior, reasoning, social interaction, and governance. This chapter focuses specifically on the aspect of purpose.
This material is adapted from Chapter 12 of "Transform Your Mind, Upgrade Your Life" by Sam Kneller.
God's Intent for Creation
To understand that God's Neshama embodies purpose, we can refer to Genesis 2:7:
"And the LORD God formed (H3335) man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul."
Examining the Biblical Hebrew meaning of "formed" (H3335):
H3335
יָצַר yâtsar yaw-tsar' likely related to H3334 (יָצַר) (through shaping); (compare H3331 (יַצַע)); to mold into a form, especially like a potter; figuratively, to determine (i.e., form a resolution):
KJV — ⨯ earthen, fashion, form, frame, make(-r), potter, purpose.
Whether we consider Strong's definition of molding or the KJV's translation of purpose, it becomes evident that when God created humanity, He envisioned a long-term plan—similar to a potter who imagines the final product while working the clay.
The Challenge to Doubters
God poses a challenge to skeptics: "Shall the work (humans) question the one who created it, saying, 'He made me not?' Or shall the creation question the one who shaped it, claiming, 'He lacked understanding?'" Humanity often scrutinizes God's Consciousness and Understanding; however, it would be wise to heed His Word, which states He has a purpose for our existence.
Humanity's Unique Purpose
Do humans embody the quality of yatsar, or purpose? At UnlockBibleMeaning.com, you can explore Strong's Concordance with the H3335 reference. Numerous verses affirm that we share God's image and inherently possess purpose.
Psalm 94:20
"Does the throne of iniquity have fellowship with you (humans), which frames (H3335) mischief by law?"
Isaiah 44:12
"The smith with tongs works in the coals, fashions (H3335) it with hammers, and works it with the strength of his arms."
Only God and humans are beings with purpose—yatsar—because we are made in His image.
Dimensions of Purpose
We can further break down this human uniqueness into a variety of characteristics that enrich every individual.
Managing Space-Time
Time is not just a scientific concept; it represents our unique human experience. Each person has 24 hours to navigate and manage their space, including work, rest, and recreation.
Creativity as a Distinction
The endless creativity of humanity is astonishing. From cooking to crafting, the Neshama equips us with the ability to invent and innovate.
Imagination: A Unique Human Trait
Every form of art begins with imagination. Whether it's writing, painting, or design, these creative endeavors stem from our conscious ability to conceptualize.
Lifelong Learning
Learning is a continuous journey for humans, beginning with infancy and extending throughout life. Our consciousness fuels our curiosity about the world.
Choices Define Us
Each individual makes choices that shape their identity. Even though we are one race, personal decisions create 8 billion unique paths.
Growth Mindset
Humans have the innate drive to grow and improve, whether that pertains to skills or personal development.
Embracing Challenges
Challenges are an intrinsic part of being human. Engaging in competitive activities, whether sports or games, is a testament to our drive for self-improvement.
By nurturing young minds and supporting those grappling with anxiety and depression, we can help them discover their purpose and tap into their inherent creativity and imagination.
Recognizing the Importance of Purpose
Neither science nor psychology fully understands the origins of this uniquely human trait, yet they acknowledge its significance in guiding life.
"He who has a why to live for can bear almost any how." — Friedrich Nietzsche
"The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well." — Ralph Waldo Emerson
"Nothing is more creative… nor destructive… than a brilliant mind with a purpose." — Dan Brown, Inferno
"Make your work to be in keeping with your purpose." — Leonardo da Vinci
"You can have anything you want if you want it badly enough. You can be anything you want to be, do anything you set out to accomplish if you hold to that desire with singleness of purpose." — Abraham Lincoln
What is Your Purpose?
Although science and psychology may lack clarity on the origins of a long-term mission, they recognize its critical impact on mental well-being. This book, Transform Your Mind, Upgrade Your Life, is rooted in God's teachings, yet its principles resonate with all people, regardless of their circumstances.
No matter where you find yourself—wealthy or poor, joyful or sorrowful—the essential takeaway is to strive for a meaningful objective.
Life resembles an arrow aimed at a target; you must pursue your aspirations. Establish your mission and seek out your purpose. Many resources, both free and paid, are available online and in libraries to assist you in this journey. Here’s an article with fifteen key questions to kickstart your exploration.
If you feel adrift, focus and meditate on your long-term purpose. In doing so, you will encounter various challenges that require innovative solutions, ultimately guiding you toward enhanced mental health.