The Problem of Pain

by C.S. Lewis
The Problem of Pain cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Religion and Theology
Technical
  • ID: 2316
  • Added: 2025-10-13
  • Updated: 2025-10-13
  • ISBN: 9780007332267
  • Publisher: HarperCollins UK
  • Published: 2009-06-15
  • Reviews: 3

C.S. Lewis's 'The Problem of Pain' tackles one of the most profound and troubling questions in theology: if God is good and all-powerful, why does He permit suffering? This classic work examines the nature of pain, both human and animal, and seeks to reconcile it with the concept of a loving deity. Lewis argues that pain and suffering are not arbitrary but serve a greater purpose in the divine plan, offering a thoughtful and compassionate perspective on a timeless dilemma. Written with clarity and depth, this book is a must-read for anyone grappling with questions of faith, morality, and the existence of evil. Lewis's insights provide a framework for understanding suffering in a way that honors both human experience and divine wisdom, making it a timeless contribution to religious and philosophical thought.

Reviews
Emerging Scholars Blog · 2023-08-04
thoughtful 4.50

The book is a thoughtful exploration of the intellectual reasons behind pain and suffering in a world governed by a good and all-powerful God. It offers a blend of philosophical reasoning and spiritual insight.

This review highlights how Lewis tackles the complex issue of pain and suffering from a philosophical and theological perspective. The reviewer appreciates Lewis's clear and logical thinking, which provides a comprehensive understanding of the problem. They note that the book is not just a theoretical exercise but also offers hope and wisdom to those seeking a deeper understanding of human nature. The reviewer finds the book to be a valuable resource for anyone grappling with the existential questions of pain and suffering.

Quick quotes

    Lewis offers a blend of philosophical reasoning and spiritual insight.

    The book provides a comprehensive understanding of the problem of pain.

    It offers hope and wisdom to those seeking a deeper understanding of human nature.

Nathan Eberline · Nathan Eberline · 2021-12-06
enduring 4.00

The book is a quick and thoughtful read that has endured as classic literature for over 80 years. It provides a profound exploration of the existence of suffering and pain.

Nathan Eberline appreciates the book's enduring relevance and its ability to tackle profound questions about suffering and pain. They highlight how Lewis's work remains a classic, offering timeless insights that continue to resonate with readers. Eberline finds the book to be a quick yet thoughtful read, making it accessible while still delving deep into complex theological and philosophical issues. They commend Lewis's ability to make abstract concepts understandable and relatable.

Quick quotes

    The book has persisted for 80 years as classic literature.

    It's no surprise that the book has endured as classic literature.

    Lewis's work remains a classic, offering timeless insights.

Bob on Books · 2017-04-26
insightful 4.50

Lewis's classic work explores the existence of suffering and pain in a world created by a good and omnipotent God. The book is praised for its logical and insightful approach.

This review emphasizes Lewis's logical and insightful approach to the problem of pain and suffering. The reviewer appreciates how Lewis addresses the existence of pain in a world governed by a good and omnipotent God, providing a clear and compelling argument. They note that the book is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of human suffering. The reviewer finds the book to be both intellectually stimulating and spiritually uplifting, making it a must-read for those interested in theological and philosophical questions.

Quick quotes

    Lewis's classic work exploring the existence of suffering and pain.

    The book is praised for its logical and insightful approach.

    A valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of human suffering.

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