Tolstoy's depiction of God is in stark contrast to the conventional religious beliefs and practices prevalent in his time. He challenges the notion of a distant, transcendent God who is separate from humanity. Instead, he emphasizes the idea that God is an ever-present, immanent force residing within each person, waiting to be recognized and experienced.
This interpretation of God as an internal, personal reality aligns with Tolstoy's philosophical and religious views. He believed that true spirituality is not about following external rituals or doctrines but about living a life guided by love, compassion, and moral integrity. By presenting God as an inherent part of human nature, Tolstoy encourages readers to look inward and discover their own divine potential.
Throughout the story, Tolstoy conveys the idea that the Kingdom of God, a realm of spiritual perfection and divine harmony, is not a distant place to be reached after death but a state of being that can be achieved in the present moment. This concept resonates with Eastern spiritual traditions, which emphasize the importance of self-realization and inner transformation as means to attain enlightenment and union with the divine.
Ultimately, Tolstoy's portrayal of God in the story reflects his own personal spiritual journey and his desire to challenge conventional notions of religion. By presenting a God who is intimately connected with human experience, he encourages readers to seek spiritual fulfillment through self-reflection, moral growth, and the cultivation of a compassionate heart.