Kenosis

Kenosis (Greek: κένωσις, kénōsis, 'emptying') refers to the 'self-emptying' of one's own will and the humble acceptance of God's will. In Christian theology, it's most prominently used to describe Jesus Christ's voluntary relinquishment of certain divine attributes in the incarnation. This emptying isn't a loss of essential divinity but rather a withholding of its full exercise, a profound act of humility and solidarity with humanity. The concept emphasizes selfless love, sacrifice, and the importance of prioritizing the needs of others. It signifies a profound shift in perspective, putting aside personal power and privilege for the sake of service and a commitment to a life of humble obedience. kenosis challenges notions of self-aggrandizement and emphasizes the paradoxical strength found in vulnerability and self-giving.

Kenosis meaning with examples

• The pastor's sermon explored Christ's kenosis, highlighting how Jesus, though divine, emptied himself to become human, experiencing suffering and ultimately, death, to redeem humanity. This self-sacrifice exemplifies the ultimate act of love and service, inspiring the congregation to lives of greater compassion and empathy.
• She viewed her volunteer work in the homeless shelter as a personal act of kenosis. By setting aside her comfort and privilege, she sought to understand the struggles of others, embracing vulnerability and finding meaning in the act of selfless service. It was a profound exercise in compassion and a way to connect more intimately with those in need.
• The artist, after achieving widespread fame, embarked on a new phase of her work characterized by kenosis. She abandoned her previous commercial style, embracing a simpler, more vulnerable aesthetic to express deep internal struggles and a desire to connect with her audience in a more honest way, letting go of the desire for external validation.
• For the Buddhist monk, the practice of meditation and detachment from worldly desires is a form of kenosis. It represents an emptying of the self, a process of releasing ego to embrace the true nature of reality. This allows them to cultivate compassion and experience a deeper level of peace through liberation from suffering.