Carl Jung: It cannot be assumed that everyone possesses the religious genius of Paul.
To Pastor Hans Wegmann
Dear Pastor Wegmann, September 1957For a long time I have been meaning to answer your letter and thank you for your sermon but this summer has been so brimful of work that I simply haven’t got round to it.
I hope you will make allowances for my old age.
I am glad that you pointed out in your sermon how necessary it is to disregard the ego and its will, and that you go back to St. Paulas a great example.
But, by your leave, exactly how do your flock set about distinguishing the ego from the non-ego-especially in such matters of daily importance as those you mention?
It cannot be assumed that everyone possesses the religious genius of Paul.
I, at any rate, know from my medical practice that nothing is more Difficult than to make this subtle distinction.
It cannot be done by extinguishing the ego, and anyone who reflects at all constantly finds himself in the difficult position of having to safeguard his ego and at the same time lend an ear to the non-ego.
It is just in this conflict that he proves his humanity, or so it seems to me.
I am glad you have taken up The Secret of the Golden Flower again.
The East often knows the answer to questions which appear insoluble to us Christians.
Again with thanks and best greetings,
Yours sincerely,
C.G. Jung ~Carl Jung, Letters Vol. II, Pages 391-392
