The Definition of a Miracle: Plausibility vs. Marvel

The term miracle carries deep significance across various contexts, ranging from common sayings to religious claims. It is essential to understand the nuances of what constitutes a miracle, especially in today's scientific and rational world. This article aims to explore the definition of a miracle and to debate whether something can be considered miraculous even if it is plausible but still hard to believe.

Webster's Definition and the Concept of Extraordinary Interventions

According to Webster's, a miracle is defined as:

1: an extraordinary event manifesting divine intervention in human affairs

This definition sets a high bar for what constitutes a miracle. It suggests that a miracle is an event that demonstrates the direct influence of a divine being. However, this perspective is often challenged by the scientific and rational mindset of our modern era.

The Reality of Miracles: An Incomplete Understanding

In my view, there is no such thing as a true miracle. What people often perceive as a miracle is simply a situation where our understanding of the universe is incomplete. For example, when someone observes a sudden reduction in a tumor, we might say it is a miracle. However, this is more likely a result of our limited understanding of cancer cells and their behavior.

The belief that an invisible, supreme being is directly intervening and temporarily changing the laws of physics and biology is, to me, less plausible than the idea that there are aspects of the universe we have yet to fully comprehend. The notion that such a being is subject to an ethical or moral code that allows for the manipulation of these laws is even more speculative and untestable.

The Random Nature of purported Miracles

The random nature of purported miracles also suggests that they may not be real or consistent. For instance, why have there never been confirmed cases of limbs being restored through what seems to be a miraculous event? In the realm of human genetics, there is no known mechanism for the restoration of lost limbs. Salamanders can regenerate their limbs, but this ability is due to advanced DNA mechanisms that are far beyond our own.

The idea that a divine being can sometimes perform miracles for morally reprehensible individuals while denying them to the holy and pious seems more irrational and less plausible. It is more rational to conclude that extraordinary events, which we cannot currently explain, occur at random. We simply have much more to learn and our understanding is still incomplete.

Contextual Definition of a Miracle

The definition of a miracle depends significantly on the context in which it is used. In common usage, a miracle might simply mean a highly unlikely event. For example, someone might say, "If I passed that test, it'll be a miracle" because the outcome is so improbable.

However, in a more literal or religious context, the term "miracle" is used to describe an event that suspends the laws of physics in one's favor. Religious groups often accept claims of miracles based on poor or insufficient evidence. While this can be a deeply personal and meaningful belief for many, it is important to critically evaluate such claims.

Conclusion

The debate over what constitutes a miracle is complex and multifaceted. While the scientific and rational approach may question the existence of true miracles, the emotional and personal significance of believing in them is undeniable. Understanding the plausibility and random nature of these events can help us approach these beliefs more objectively and critically.