Is a River Alive? Robert Macfarlane Explores the Spiritual Bond Between Nature and Humanity
In a compelling blend of environmental advocacy and literary artistry, Robert Macfarlane’s latest book, Is a River Alive?, invites readers into a profound exploration of our relationship with nature. Drawing inspiration from a question posed by his young son, Macfarlane delves deep into the essence of rivers across the globe, challenging the conventional perspective that views them merely as resources.
Macfarlane, a multifaceted writer and environmentalist, navigates through diverse waterways—from the struggling River Cam in England to the polluted rivers in Chennai, India, and the pristine Magpie River in Quebec—each with its own story and urgent fate. With a keen eye, he reveals how climate change and industrialization threaten these vital ecosystems, prompting a reflection on the deeper significance of rivers in our shared existence.
Each river serves as a poignant reminder of the biblical principle found in Genesis 1:31: “God saw all that he had made, and it was very good.” This notion underscores the interconnectedness of creation and our moral obligation to steward it wisely. By recognizing rivers as living entities, Macfarlane presents a challenge—are we merely spectators in nature’s story, or are we called to be its advocates?
In his narrative, Macfarlane draws upon the concept of “Earth Jurisprudence,” inspired by thinkers like Thomas Berry. This philosophy posits that nature possesses rights similar to human and corporate rights. Such revolutionary ideas may seem radical; after all, how can we grant rights to a river? Yet, as the Innu poet Lydia Mestokosho-Paradis poignantly states, “It seems crazy that we give a corporation that’s ten years old rights, but we won’t give rights to a ten-thousand-year-old river.”
Reflecting on these questions leads us to consider our spiritual responsibility toward creation. Just as Jesus taught about our duty to love our neighbors, it extends to caring for the environment that supports our communities. The waters that nourish the earth also sustain our souls, inviting us to consider our role as caretakers of this planet.
As Macfarlane eloquently articulates the urgency of granting legal rights to rivers, he ignites a conversation that promises to resonate far beyond the pages of his book. It presents an opportunity to reflect on not only our responsibilities towards nature but also our relationship with the Creator.
In the end, Is a River Alive? serves as an invitation to ponder our co-existence with the natural world. As we contemplate the rights of rivers and the question of life itself, we are beckoned to consider how our actions reflect our values, our spirituality, and ultimately, our devotion to the stewardship of God’s good creation.
Let us be inspired to act, remembering that every ripple in a river is a call to love and respect the divine beauty of the world we share. As we engage with these ideas, may we find ourselves united in purpose, advocating not just for rivers but for the flourishing of all creation.
Explore and dig up answers yourself with our BGodInspired Bible Tools! Be careful – each interaction is like a new treasure hunt… you can get lost for hours 🙂
