What Are Those Things That Aren’t Physical But Are Real
Our understanding of reality often focuses on the tangible and material. Yet, there are numerous phenomena and concepts that exist beyond the physical realm yet are undeniably real. This article explores such non-physical existences, including mathematics, quantum fields, and divine creation.
Mathematics: Beyond Time and Space
Mathematics is a perfect example of a domain that transcends the physical world. Unlike other subjects, math is not invented but discovered. It exists independent of human observation and activity. Here are some key points to consider:
Unchanged and Unchangeable: Mathematical concepts, such as constants like π and e, and laws like the Pythagorean theorem, are permanently fixed and unalterable. They are eternal fixes in the fabric of reality.
Permeating Time and Space Continuum: Math exists across all points in time and space. It is a universal language that can describe the most complex physical phenomena and the simplest geometric shapes. This means that whether observing the tiniest particles or the vast expanse of the universe, mathematics is the underlying language that connects everything.
Quantum Fields: The Underlying Reality
At the most fundamental level, everything is made of quantum fields. These fields are the active participants in the interactions that form the physical universe. Here are some insights into quantum fields:
Everything Is Physical: Even our hopes, dreams, and feelings are manifestations of quantum fields. Hopes and dreams, while not tangible, are real because they result from the interactions of these fields.
No Ghosts in the Machines: The idea of ghosts or spirits existing in machines is more a product of imagination than a reality. In the physical realm, entities or phenomena are explained by the interactions of quantum fields.
Divine Creation in the Universe
Religion too presents non-physical realities. One significant example is the concept of the Word of God, as expressed in the Bible, which is frequently seen as an unphysical yet real utopian blueprint of creation.
Science and Divine Creation
Quantum physicist Viktor T. Toth offers a scientific perspective on the creation account in Genesis. According to Toth, the best scientific explanation for the universe starts with the second picosecond post-Big Bang event. Here’s an analysis:
Ex Nihilo and De Novo Creation: The creation could be categorized into two types: ex nihilo and de novo. The ex nihilo creation is the first picosecond—and potentially a moment or eternity—delivery of the initial singularity by the Word of the Creator from His mind and with His will. The de novo creation is the process where the Creator uses His words to excite the electromagnetic field, initializing the Genesis creation.
Quantum Field Theory and Creation: In quantum field theory, all common particles identify today are listed in the Standard Model of Elementary Particles. The Creator's de novo words enchant the electromagnetic field, much like your spoken words excite sound waves in the air.
Genesis and Scientific Understanding: Astrophysicist Hugh Ross explains that the raw materials for our Earth and humanity required the remnants of three generations of supernova explosions. These events resulted in the creation of the raw materials needed for life on Earth. The Genesis account outlines a de novo creation process where the Creator used His spoken Word to initialize these processes.
No Scientific Proof for Initial Singularity: While no scientist or theologian can prove the creation of the initial singularity, the consistency of quantum field theory with the Genesis account is striking. The second picosecond of time forward aligns with the Creator's explanation to Job in Job 38:4, describing how the Earth's foundations were laid.
Conclusion
The realms of mathematics, quantum fields, and divine creation all present non-physical existences that are nonetheless undeniably real. From the unchangeable constants of pi and e to the interactions of quantum fields and the narrative of divine creation, these concepts illustrate the profound reality of non-physical phenomena. By exploring these areas, we can gain insights into the deeper nature of existence and the world around us.