Hunger Versus Spirituality

In 1943, a psychologist named Abraham Maslow presented a paper entitled "A Theory of Human Motivation". In it, Maslow proposed five different kinds of human needs as the ascending levels of a pyramid. The largest category, representing the base of the pyramid, contains basic physiological needs: food and shelter. The smallest category at the upper tip of the pyramid is the most advanced need, namely “self-actualization” or spirituality. Interestingly, the diminishing size of Maslow’s levels as they ascend towards the top suggests his errant attitude of a diminishing need and a diminishing ability to attain them. Regardless, Maslow’s catagories provide a useful visual of real life. For instance, it’s hard to feel safe, loved and spiritual if you are first and foremost starving. Missionaries understand this clearly with some investigators. Lehi’s family in The Book of Mormon experienced a similar impasse in which their obedience and spirituality was challenged by the basic need of hunger. In this instance, Nephi was the only one in his family who was able to put his spirituality above his hunger.

 1 Nephi 16:18 And it came to pass that as I, Nephi, went forth to slay food, behold, I did break my bow, which was made of fine steel; and after I did break my bow, behold, my brethren were angry with me because of the loss of my bow, for we did obtain no food.
 20 And it came to pass that Laman and Lemuel and the sons of Ishmael did begin to murmur exceedingly, because of their sufferings and afflictions in the wilderness; and also my father began to murmur against the Lord his God..
 23 And it came to pass that I, Nephi, did make out of wood a bow, and out of a straight stick, an arrow… And I said unto my father: Whither shall I go to obtain food?
 32 And it came to pass that I did return to our tents, bearing the beasts which I had slain; and now when they beheld that I had obtained food, how great was their joy! And it came to pass that they did humble themselves before the Lord, and did give thanks unto him.

LESSON LEARNED: Spirituality is difficult to feel if the basic needs of life aren’t met. Some are able to transcend this order and put spirituality first.

FEEDBACK: HAVE YOU WITNESSED THIS IN YOUR LIFE OR THE LIFE OF ANOTHER?