Meaning: The quote you provided is a thought-provoking statement by philosopher Walter Kaufmann, in which he discusses the concept of theism and its relation to the world. Let's break down the quote and explore its significance in more detail.

Kaufmann begins by asserting that the only theism worthy of respect is one that believes in God not because of the way the world is made, but in spite of it. This statement challenges the traditional notion of theism as a belief in a benevolent and omnipotent God who has created the world in a perfect and harmonious way. Instead, Kaufmann suggests that true theism should be able to reconcile the existence of a higher power with the imperfections and suffering present in the world. This perspective implies a deeper and more nuanced understanding of faith, one that acknowledges the complexities and challenges of life while still holding onto a belief in God.

The philosopher goes on to draw a parallel between this form of theism and the atheism of the Buddha, highlighting the profound nature of both perspectives. This comparison is particularly striking, as it juxtaposes the belief in a divine being with the absence of such a belief, suggesting that theism, when understood in the way Kaufmann describes, can be as deep and meaningful as atheism. This challenges the common assumption that atheism is inherently more thoughtful or profound than theism, by suggesting that the depth of one's faith is not determined by the absence of doubt or questioning.

Kaufmann then references two figures from the Bible, Job and Jeremiah, as exemplars of the type of theism he regards as worthy of respect. Job is known for his unwavering faith in God despite enduring immense suffering and loss, while Jeremiah, often referred to as the weeping prophet, grappled with doubt and anguish in the face of adversity. By invoking these biblical figures, Kaufmann emphasizes the idea that genuine theism is not about living in blissful ignorance of the world's hardships, but about confronting and wrestling with those hardships while maintaining a belief in God. This portrayal of theism as a complex and dynamic relationship with the divine challenges simplistic or dogmatic interpretations of religious faith.

In essence, Kaufmann's quote invites us to reconsider our understanding of theism and the depth of religious belief. It encourages us to embrace a more nuanced and critical approach to faith, one that acknowledges the complexities of the world and the human experience while still finding room for a belief in something greater than ourselves.

In conclusion, Walter Kaufmann's quote offers a thought-provoking perspective on the nature of theism and its relation to the world. By challenging conventional notions of religious faith and highlighting the depth and complexity of true theism, Kaufmann's words invite us to reevaluate our understanding of religious belief and its significance in the face of life's challenges and uncertainties.