“If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.” – 1 John 1:8, ESV
In our modern culture there has been the idea that all worldviews are acceptable. However, the novel shows that this is not the case. Hazel continues to ask if anyone has ever seen a soul throughout his preaching, showing a misconception to the idea of faith. This is contrasted when Enoch, a zookeeper, tells the strange preacher that Hazel has “wise blood,” a worldly knowledge that guides them throughout life.
Both concepts are unseen, but both are integral to a person’s worldview. Christians believe there is a soul and that the only way to save it is through accepting Christ as their savior. Alternatively, wise blood follows the belief that our actions are driven by a force not well known to us. Neither can be proven by our sight, but both are argued when discussing where we came from originally.
Truth is something everybody wants to know because everyone cannot be right. When accepting falsehoods, people are often led down destructive paths whether their intentions were good or not. It is important to hold onto Jesus’ teachings since the world is always trying to lead us astray. The truth will set you free and should be sought out. In Hazel’s case, the quest for truth ends up costing him more than he ever could have imagined.