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The Incommunicable Limit: Abraham’s Silence and the Paradox of Faith


In a recent article for the journal Sophia, philosopher Alexei Procyshyn offers a novel interpretation of Kierkegaard’s views on faith, specifically focusing on the character of Abraham in Fear and Trembling. Rather than viewing faith as a set of illogical beliefs, Procyshyn argues that the true paradox lies in Abraham’s absolute silence, which represents a fundamental inability to communicate the religious experience to others. This analysis identifies three distinct forms of silence—aesthetic, ethical, and religious—mapping a developmental journey where the final stage involves a singular relationship with the Divine that transcends human language. This perspective suggests that profound faith is incommunicable, presenting a direct challenge to the goals of modern interfaith dialogue which often prioritises verbal translation and shared understanding. Furthermore, the sources contrast faith with wisdom, noting that while wisdom can be taught or emulated, the isolation of faith remains unique and untransferable. Ultimately, the text encourages a greater humility and respect for the silent, lived dimensions of religious life that exist beyond the reach of explanation.