Meaning: This quote by Hans Urs von Balthasar, a Swiss theologian and Catholic priest, reflects on the modern skepticism towards the concept of beauty. Balthasar suggests that contemporary society has become hesitant to embrace the idea of beauty and instead reduces it to a superficial facade, making it easier to disregard or overlook. This quote invites us to contemplate the diminishing value placed on beauty in today's world and the implications of this shift in perception.

In a society driven by materialism and pragmatism, the notion of beauty is often relegated to a secondary or even tertiary importance. Beauty is frequently dismissed as something frivolous or unnecessary, especially when compared to more tangible and quantifiable attributes. This relegation of beauty to a mere appearance reflects a general tendency to prioritize functionality and efficiency over aesthetic contemplation.

Balthasar's quote also alludes to the idea that our contemporary understanding of beauty has been distorted. Instead of recognizing beauty as an intrinsic and profound quality, it is often reduced to a superficial and disposable attribute. This reduction of beauty to a mere appearance suggests a lack of willingness to engage with its deeper meanings and implications. In doing so, we risk overlooking the transformative and enriching power of beauty in our lives.

From a theological perspective, Balthasar's quote can be seen as a commentary on the secularization of society and the diminishing significance of spiritual and transcendent values. Beauty has long been associated with divine attributes, and by reducing it to a superficial appearance, we may be losing touch with its spiritual and metaphysical dimensions. This shift in perception has implications for how we understand and experience the world around us, as well as our capacity for awe, wonder, and reverence.

In response to Balthasar's quote, there is an opportunity to reevaluate our relationship with beauty and consider its broader implications. Instead of dismissing beauty as a mere appearance, we can strive to rediscover its deeper significance and embrace it as a source of inspiration, meaning, and connection. By acknowledging the transformative power of beauty, we can cultivate a greater appreciation for the world around us and nurture a more enriched and meaningful existence.

Ultimately, Balthasar's quote challenges us to reconsider our understanding of beauty and its place in our lives. By daring to believe in beauty once more, we can reclaim its profound significance and resist reducing it to a mere appearance. In doing so, we may rediscover the capacity for wonder, transcendence, and spiritual enrichment that beauty has to offer.