Meaning: The quote "Heathenism is a state of mind. You can take it that I'm referring to one who does not see his world. He has no mental light. He destroys almost unwittingly. He cannot feel any Gods presence in his life. He is the 21st century man." by David Bowie is a thought-provoking statement that delves into the concept of heathenism as a state of mind rather than a religious or cultural identity. In his reflection, Bowie suggests that heathenism is characterized by a lack of awareness, a destructive tendency, and an absence of spiritual connection. This quote invites contemplation on the modern human condition and the challenges of finding meaning and purpose in a rapidly changing world.

When Bowie mentions "Heathenism is a state of mind," he appears to be redefining the term beyond its traditional connotations. Historically, heathenism has been associated with pagan beliefs or practices, often used pejoratively by adherents of monotheistic religions. However, Bowie's interpretation seems to transcend religious boundaries and instead focuses on the psychological and existential aspects of heathenism. By framing it as a state of mind, he suggests that heathenism is a condition of the individual's consciousness, independent of specific religious affiliations.

The idea that a heathen "does not see his world" implies a sense of blindness or ignorance. Bowie seems to be suggesting that a heathen is someone who lacks perspective or insight into the world around them. This could be interpreted as a metaphor for a person who is disconnected from the deeper meanings and interconnectedness of life, perhaps consumed by materialism or superficial pursuits. The notion of "no mental light" further underscores this idea of spiritual or intellectual darkness, where a heathen may be adrift in a world devoid of enlightenment or understanding.

Bowie's assertion that a heathen "destroys almost unwittingly" introduces a troubling dimension to the concept. It implies that the actions of a heathen, driven by their lack of awareness and understanding, can lead to unintended harm or destruction. This could be seen as a commentary on the consequences of living in a state of disconnectedness, where one's actions are not guided by a deeper sense of purpose or morality. It also raises questions about the impact of heedless behavior on the individual, society, and the environment.

The statement "He cannot feel any Gods presence in his life" addresses the spiritual void that Bowie associates with heathenism. Here, he touches on the absence of divine or transcendent experiences in the life of a heathen, suggesting a fundamental disconnect from the sacred or the numinous. This aspect of the quote speaks to the existential dilemma of living without a sense of spiritual meaning or connection to something greater than oneself. It reflects a yearning for a deeper, more profound experience of life that transcends the mundane and material.

Finally, Bowie's characterization of the heathen as "the 21st century man" places this concept in a contemporary context. By aligning heathenism with the modern era, he suggests that the conditions he describes are not confined to a specific time or culture but are relevant to the present day. This portrayal of heathenism as a state of mind that is emblematic of the current age raises questions about the impact of technological, social, and cultural changes on the human experience. It prompts consideration of the challenges and opportunities for finding meaning and spirituality in a rapidly evolving world.

In conclusion, David Bowie's quote offers a thought-provoking exploration of heathenism as a state of mind, shedding light on the existential, spiritual, and ethical dimensions of the concept. By reframing heathenism beyond its conventional religious connotations, Bowie invites contemplation on the challenges of living in a disconnected, spiritually impoverished state. His words prompt us to consider the implications of lacking awareness, insight, and spiritual connection in the context of the modern human experience. Bowie's quote serves as a catalyst for introspection and dialogue about the pursuit of meaning and purpose in a complex and ever-changing world.