The Meaning of Life - Book Report/Review Example

Socrates, a famous philosopher, whose “philosophical views are the early dialogues of his student Plato, (and) who attempted there to provide a faithful picture of the methods and teachings of the master” (Kemerling par. 3). And finally, Jesus is believed to be the Son of God by the Roman Catholics, whose divinity is shared as the Second Person in the Divine Trinity with God the Father and God the Holy Spirit (Jesus Messiah Ministries par. 1)

Siduri precisely advised Gilgamesh to “fill your belly with good things; day and night, night and day, dance and be merry, feast and rejoice. Let your clothes be fresh, bathe yourself in water, cherish the little child that holds your hand, and make your wife happy in your embrace; for this too is a lot of men” (Sandars 102).

Socrates, as a philosopher gave some of the following advice on life: (1) "The unexamined life is not worth living."  —Socrates on Advice; (2) Be of good cheer about death and know this as truth-- that no evil can happen to a good man, either in life or after death."  —Socrates on Bereavement; (3) "He who is not contented with what he has, would not be contented with what he would like to have."  —Socrates on Advice” (Book Rags, Inc. 1).

Finally, Jesus' famous teaching about life, acknowledged as the two greatest commandments in God’s law: "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it, You shall love your neighbor as yourself" (New International Version: Matt. 22:36-39).

Personal Reflection

One believes that the most inspirational advice was provided by Jesus from among the three famous personalities, regardless of one’s faith or cultural orientation. When one believes in a Supreme Being as governing one’s purpose in life, all endeavors are directed towards following the commandments, principles and values taught. Jesus’ advice on loving one’s neighbor as oneself is actually known as the Golden Rule or a rule of reciprocity wherein all individuals would want to be treated justly and fairly in a good and appropriate manner. If everyone adheres to this rule, then no harm should befall one’s neighbors.

Siduri’s advice focused more on providing pleasure and happiness, which is, of course, one of the objectives of men. But there are trials and challenges that come to life that could not be avoided and would render the advice inappropriate. On the other hand, Socrates’ teachings are likewise profound but deep in meaning, as one who reads them would have to remunerate on the messages that Socrates would like to impart. Jesus’ advice is clearly written and stipulated, making it more understandable and universally applicable – to live one’s life according to God’s purpose and to love others as oneself.