Life Of Pi Essay: Religion And Faith Created A Survivor

Life of Pi Essay: Religion and Faith Created a Survivor Faith is the opposite of fact. A fact is a thing that is indisputably the case, no questions asked. On the other hand, spirituality involves a leap of faith that allows for belief in the unknown rather than proof of facts. Pi Patel found faith in various religions. He was born a Hindu and later met individuals who greatly influenced him and led him to examine Christianity and Islam. The more religions Pi followed, the greater his faith grew. Before Pi tells us his story, he states, “I have a story that will make you believe in God.” (Martel VIII). Pi’s religious faith played a greater role in his survival than his knowledge of science and zoology. This was evident in the comfort provided by religious rituals, the companionship of conversation with God, and the hope that spirituality engendered in his desire to
The magnificent Bengal Tiger keeps Pi vigilant and on his toes. He must keep Richard Parker happy by feeding him and keeping him hydrated. If he does not do these things, Pi believes that the tiger will eat him out of starvation. Patel also uses his whistle and urine to train Richard Parker. He could not have survived if Richard Parker had not been on the lifeboat. Furthermore, The tiger gave him purpose, company and even someone to talk too. Moreover, Pi’s faith allows him to connect with animals on another level, a level that regular zoologists can not. When Pi was a child his father said to him “You think tiger is your friend, he is an animal, not a playmate.” (Lee Life of Pi film). Pi responds “ Animals have souls... I have seen it in their eyes.” (Lee Life of Pi film). Pi’s alter ego, a gift from god, gave him purpose, companionship, and a reason to survive. Thus, the presence of God(s) and the human like company of Richard Parker played a greater role in his survival than his knowledge of science and