By Emil Brunner
Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
“What oxygen is to the lungs, such is hope to the meaning of life.” This Emil Brunner quote about hope offers a powerful observation on what it means to truly be alive. In just a few words, it draws a striking comparison between our physical need to breathe and the emotional or spiritual need for hope. Whether you are facing tough times or simply looking for a reminder of what fuels our days, Emil Brunner’s words create space for reflection and renewed energy. The idea is as relevant in daily challenges as it is in shaping a meaningful life.
What Does This Quote Mean?
Emil Brunner uses a vivid metaphor to help us understand the vital role hope plays in our lives. His quote equates hope with oxygen: just as breathing is absolutely essential for the survival of our bodies, hope is essential for the meaning we find in life. Without oxygen, our lungs—and ultimately, we—cannot live. In the same way, without hope, our lives can begin to feel empty, directionless, and drained of purpose or energy.
Taken literally, the quote reminds us that for lungs, oxygen is not a luxury but a fundamental need. More than comfort or ease, it is the very thing that keeps us alive. Hope serves a similar function, though on a deeper, psychological and emotional level. When people lose hope, it becomes far more difficult to muster the strength needed for even the simplest daily tasks. Motivation fades, relationships can suffer, and the drive to pursue goals or change our circumstances can stall.
On a deeper, more metaphorical level, Emil Brunner’s words invite us to see hope as the invisible force that allows us to engage with the world, dream about the future, and push through hardship. Hope does not guarantee that life will always be easy, just as oxygen cannot prevent all illness. Instead, it provides the essential “breath” that lets us keep moving, learning, loving, and aiming higher. A life fueled by hope is one that can endure disappointments and setbacks, always believing that something new and meaningful is still possible. This Emil Brunner quote about hope ultimately teaches that hope is not only comforting—it is essential for living a life full of meaning.
How Can You Use This Quote in Life?
1. Remind Yourself During Difficult Times
When life presents setbacks—be it health struggles, job loss, disappointments in relationships, or unexpected challenges—recalling Emil Brunner’s words can offer strength. By remembering that hope serves you in the same vital way as oxygen, you acknowledge it is okay to struggle but equally crucial to hold onto hope, even when the future seems unclear. This mindset encourages resilience and helps you to persevere.
2. Support Others in Need
Sometimes, loved ones may feel overwhelmed or defeated. In those moments, sharing this Emil Brunner quote about hope can be a gentle, effective way to encourage them. Remind them that as humans, we all need hope just as much as we need air. A kind word, active listening, or simply being present can help restore another person’s sense of hopefulness.
3. Keep It Visible as a Daily Reminder
Write the quote on a note and place it somewhere meaningful—on your desk, bathroom mirror, or as your phone’s screensaver. Each time you see it, let it serve as a reset. Having this reminder can gently nudge you to value hope daily, rather than only looking for it in emergencies. Over time, it may help you develop a routine of optimism and gratitude.
4. Use Hope to Fuel Action
Hope is a powerful driving force, but it is most effective when paired with action. If you are striving for a personal goal—like learning a new skill, seeking a promotion, recovering from difficulty, or building stronger relationships—remember to keep hope active in your mind. Let it push you forward even when progress is slow. Think of hope as energizing your efforts, just as oxygen keeps your body working.
5. Reflect on What Fuels Your Own Hope
Take time to consider what gives you hope: relationships, dreams, faith, opportunities, nature, or acts of kindness. Understanding what brings you hope can help you purposefully seek those experiences when life feels heavy. This reflects the core meaning of Emil Brunner’s message, making hope a conscious part of how you live and relate to the world.
By intentionally welcoming hope into your daily mindset and actions, you make it more than just a distant ideal—it becomes part of how you choose to live and influence others.
The Motivation Message
You matter, and so does your hope. Think about it—just as you would not go a day without breathing, do not starve your heart of hope. Life is full of unpredictability, but every breath you take is a chance to find new meaning and move forward. Even in the toughest moments, hope is not just wishful thinking—it is fuel, it is energy!
Whenever doubt starts to cloud your vision, recall this truth: hope is what keeps your spirit alive and gives your journey direction. Remind yourself that every step, even the small ones, are victories. You are capable of finding new energy within yourself—sometimes all it takes is a fresh breath of hope to get started. We believe in your ability to push forward, find lessons in setbacks, and create your own sense of purpose. Stay open to possibility, keep reaching, and know that hope is with you every single day. Go on—take a deep breath, and let hope empower your next move!
About Emil Brunner
Emil Brunner, who was born in 1889 and died in 1966, was a Swiss theologian and influential figure in the world of Christian thought during the 20th century. He grew up in Switzerland and made a name for himself as a professor of systematic and practical theology, primarily at the University of Zurich. Brunner’s writing and teachings emphasized the importance of personal faith, the relevance of hope, and the essential connection between belief and daily living.
Emil Brunner was a leading voice in what is known as “dialectical theology,” focusing on how faith interacts with reason, doubt, and the realities of life. For Brunner, faith was not about blind acceptance, but about engaging with the world courageously, anchored by hope. The quote “What oxygen is to the lungs, such is hope to the meaning of life” reflects his deep belief that hope is not just a religious or philosophical idea, but a fundamental human necessity. Through his academic work and public speaking, Emil Brunner encouraged people to live with hope, resilience, and meaning in every circumstance.
