Meaning: The quote "A jealous lover of human liberty, deeming it the absolute condition of all that we admire and respect in humanity, I reverse the phrase of Voltaire, and say that, if God really existed, it would be necessary to abolish him." is attributed to Mikhail Bakunin, a Russian revolutionary and one of the key figures in the development of anarchist thought. This quote encapsulates Bakunin's radical views on liberty, authority, and the role of religion in society.

In this quote, Bakunin expresses his deep commitment to human liberty, which he sees as the fundamental and essential quality of humanity. He refers to himself as a "jealous lover of human liberty," emphasizing his passionate and unwavering dedication to the concept of freedom. For Bakunin, human liberty is not just a desirable attribute but the absolute condition for all that is admirable and respectable in humanity. This reflects his belief that without liberty, human potential is stifled, and individuals are unable to fully develop and express their humanity.

Bakunin's reference to Voltaire, the Enlightenment philosopher known for his advocacy of freedom of thought and expression, is significant. By reversing Voltaire's famous statement, "If God did not exist, it would be necessary to invent him," Bakunin challenges the traditional association of God with morality and meaning. He provocatively suggests that if God truly existed, it would be necessary to abolish him. This statement reflects Bakunin's rejection of religious authority and his belief that the existence of a divine being would undermine human autonomy and freedom. It also highlights his radical critique of organized religion and its perceived role in perpetuating hierarchical power structures.

Bakunin's perspective on the abolition of God can be understood in the context of his broader anarchist philosophy. As an anarchist, Bakunin advocated for the abolition of all forms of hierarchical authority, including the state, capitalism, and organized religion. He viewed these institutions as oppressive forces that limited individual freedom and perpetuated social inequality. In this light, his call to abolish God can be seen as a symbolic rejection of all forms of authority that seek to constrain human autonomy and self-determination.

It is important to note that Bakunin's views on religion and God were shaped by his experiences within the socio-political context of 19th-century Europe. During this time, the influence of the church and religious institutions on both state power and social norms was significant, and Bakunin's critique should be understood in this context. His rejection of God should be seen as a critique of the religious structures that he believed stifled human liberation and autonomy.

In conclusion, Mikhail Bakunin's quote encapsulates his radical commitment to human liberty and his rejection of religious authority. It reflects his belief in the absolute necessity of human freedom and his critique of any force, including the concept of God, that undermines it. While his views may be controversial, they remain influential in the development of anarchist and anti-authoritarian thought, challenging us to critically examine the relationship between liberty, authority, and religion in society.