Meaning: This quote by Charles Fort delves into the concept of the ideal as the imitation of God, drawing parallels between human beings as part of an organic whole and the relationship between God and humanity. Charles Fort was an American writer and researcher known for his interest in anomalous phenomena and unexplained events. His writings often explored themes of the unknown, the unexplained, and the limits of human understanding.

In this quote, Fort alludes to the recognition by theologians that the ideal for human beings is to imitate God. This concept has roots in various religious and philosophical traditions, where the imitation of God is seen as a path to spiritual growth, moral development, and the fulfillment of human potential. It suggests that by emulating the qualities and virtues associated with God, individuals can strive towards a higher moral and spiritual standard.

Furthermore, Fort uses the analogy of an organic entity to illustrate the relationship between human beings and God. He suggests that if humans are part of such an organic whole, then that whole is akin to God for them. This implies a sense of interconnectedness and unity within the divine framework, where human beings are integral components of a larger, divine entity.

The notion of God as an organic entity and humans as its constituent parts evokes the concept of divine immanence, which refers to the presence of the divine within the natural world and human experience. This perspective emphasizes the idea that God is not distant or separate from creation but rather intimately involved in and permeating all aspects of existence. It also underscores the interconnectedness of all life forms and the divine presence within them.

From a biological standpoint, Fort's analogy of human cells in relation to God reflects the intricate and interdependent nature of living organisms. In the same way that individual cells function as part of a larger organism, humans are depicted as integral components of a divine entity. This analogy serves to highlight the interconnectedness of all living beings and their relationship to a higher, transcendent reality.

In summary, Charles Fort's quote encapsulates the idea that the ideal for human beings is to imitate God and that there exists a profound connection between humans and the divine. Through the analogy of an organic entity and its constituent parts, Fort conveys the concept of divine immanence and the interconnectedness of all life forms within a larger, divine framework. This quote prompts contemplation on the nature of the ideal, the relationship between humanity and the divine, and the pursuit of spiritual and moral growth.