What Religion is Undertale?
Undertale, a popular 2015 video game created by Toby Fox, is a thought-provoking journey that explores complex themes of morality, friendship, and the human condition. A question that has puzzled players and fans alike is what religion is Undertale? While the game does not explicitly endorse or promote any specific religious or philosophical belief system, Undertale’s narrative, design, and symbolism suggest certain influences and parallels to Western esoteric traditions and metaphysical concepts.
Eastern and Western Esoteric Symbolism
Undertale’s world, called Temperance, is home to various creatures, each possessing unique abilities and backstories. The game’s antagonist, Flowey, embodies principles of Gnostic demonology, while other monsters, like Sans, echo Kabbalistic and Qabalist themes. Temperance’s architecture and aesthetics similarly draw inspiration from various belief systems, including Cabala, Tarot, and Rosicrucianism. These influences are subtly interwoven throughout the narrative, adding depth and complexity to the game’s mystical storyline.
Hebrew Myths and Mysticism
One of the most fascinating aspects of Undertale is its connection to Hebrew mysticism. The Metatron, also mentioned in the game’s FAQs, is a Torah-based symbolism, representing the supreme wisdom and power of the heavenly realm. Suffering and temptation are also evident in the game’s characterization of Flowey’s descent into madness.
Gnostic Influences
Flowey, or The Carnivorious, embodies the Gnostic concept of Sophianic temptation. Additionally, the game’s moral dilemmas and consequences emphasize the Gnostic belief in the individual soul’s journey towards illumination and redemption.
Morals and Ethics
The very fabric of Undertale, including its moral system and character development, stems from Kantian and Utilitarian ethical concerns. The game challenges player morality, forcing them to confront the consequences of choosing between pacifist and genocide routes. These deliberations are reminiscent of philosophers like Immanuel Kant and John Stuart Mill, who addressed such moral dilemmas.
| Moral Theme | Description |
|---|---|
| Humanism | Concerning the value and worthiness of human life. |
| Pacifism | Promoting diplomacy and non-violence whenever possible. |
| Gnosticism | Illuminating the true nature and purpose of existence. |
Conclusion
Though Undertale does not outright endorse a specific religious ideology, its narrative and designs are deeply rooted in symbolism and metaphysical concepts inherited from various belief systems and philosophical traditions. Hebrew myth, Gnostic demonology, and Western esoteric traditions are just a few examples of the cultural heritages that shape and inform the game’s creative vision. By engaging these themes, Undertale effectively explores complex moral issues while encouraging players to think about the consequences of their decisions.
Final Thoughts
Undertale, often described as a thought-provoking and deeply metaphorical game, warrants study and analysis from fans eager to unravel its rich allegorical tapestry. To fully appreciate the depth of Undertale’s story and symbolism, it is imperative to consider the numerous religio-philosophical influences that have shaped it.