Summary

"A Confession" is a deeply personal and philosophical work by Leo Tolstoy, chronicling his spiritual crisis and search for meaning in life. Initially disillusioned with the Orthodox Church and the superficiality of upper-class society, Tolstoy embarks on an intellectual and spiritual journey, questioning the foundations of knowledge, science, and philosophy.

Tolstoy grapples with profound existential questions: "What is the meaning of life?" and "What will come of my life?" He finds that science and philosophy offer no satisfactory answers, leading him to the brink of despair and contemplating suicide. He critiques the emptiness of his privileged existence, marked by wealth, fame, and intellectual pursuits, realizing that these achievements fail to provide lasting fulfillment.

Rejecting the answers provided by the learned and privileged, Tolstoy turns to the common people, the peasants, monks, and pilgrims, seeking wisdom in their simple faith and way of life. He observes that these uneducated individuals possess a profound understanding of life's meaning, rooted in their belief in God, labor, humility, and charity. This realization marks a turning point for Tolstoy, as he begins to embrace faith as a source of meaning and a guide to living.

Despite finding solace in the faith of the common people, Tolstoy struggles with the contradictions and obscurities within the Orthodox Church. He questions the Church's relationship to other faiths, its involvement in war and violence, and the intellectual dishonesty he perceives in its doctrines. This inner conflict leads him to a critical examination of religious traditions and writings, as he seeks to separate truth from falsehood.

Ultimately, Tolstoy's "Confession" is a testament to his spiritual awakening and his rejection of a life devoid of meaning. He embraces a simpler, more authentic existence rooted in faith and empathy for others. The work serves as a powerful critique of societal values and a call for individuals to seek genuine purpose beyond material success and intellectual pursuits. Tolstoy's journey is a profound exploration of the human condition and the search for meaning in a world often characterized by emptiness and despair.