Meaning: This quote by Jean-Paul Sartre, the renowned existentialist philosopher, encapsulates his belief in human responsibility and agency in the realm of morality and justice. Sartre rejects the idea that divine intervention or guidance is necessary for humans to understand and uphold justice, asserting that it is an inherently human concern. The quote reflects Sartre's existentialist philosophy, which emphasizes individual freedom, choice, and the absence of inherent meaning or purpose in the universe.

At the core of Sartre's existentialism is the concept of "existence precedes essence," which means that individuals are first and foremost beings who exist, and it is through their choices and actions that they define their essence or identity. This existential perspective rejects the notion of a predetermined human nature or a universal moral code imposed by a higher power. Instead, Sartre argues that individuals are responsible for creating their own values and determining their ethical principles through their actions and decisions.

In the context of the quote, Sartre's dismissal of the relevance of Jupiter, the Roman god associated with justice, highlights his rejection of external authorities dictating moral principles to humans. Sartre's existentialist stance aligns with his atheistic beliefs, as he challenges the need for a god to impart knowledge or understanding of justice. For Sartre, the responsibility for grappling with moral questions and striving for justice lies squarely with humans, without the need for divine guidance or intervention.

Sartre's assertion that "justice is a human issue" underscores his emphasis on the centrality of human agency in shaping moral values and ethical standards. In Sartre's view, individuals are not passive recipients of moral directives from a higher authority but active participants in the ongoing construction and interpretation of justice within human society. This aligns with his broader existentialist philosophy, which places emphasis on individual autonomy and the freedom to make choices that contribute to one's moral framework and understanding of justice.

Furthermore, Sartre's rejection of the need for a god to teach justice reflects his critique of religious and metaphysical systems that seek to impose moral norms from an external source. Instead, Sartre advocates for a humanistic approach to ethics, in which individuals engage in critical reflection, dialogue, and collective action to address and redress injustices within human society. This perspective resonates with Sartre's commitment to human freedom and the rejection of any form of determinism, whether it be religious, social, or political.

In conclusion, Jean-Paul Sartre's quote encapsulates his existentialist perspective on justice, morality, and human agency. By asserting that justice is a human issue and that divine intervention is unnecessary for understanding it, Sartre emphasizes the individual and collective responsibility of humans in shaping and upholding ethical standards. This quote serves as a poignant reminder of Sartre's commitment to human freedom, autonomy, and the ongoing pursuit of justice within the framework of existentialist philosophy.