Final answer:
In the Calvinist tradition, 'knowing thyself' is related to acknowledging one's own sinfulness, the powerlessness to affect salvation through works, and the doctrine of predestination. It involves looking for signs of being among the 'elect', while recognizing the ultimate unknowability of one's eternal fate, reflecting a deep humility before God's predetermined plan.
Step-by-step explanation:
When asking, "What does it mean to 'know thyself,' as far as Calvin is concerned?" we are diving into a concept embedded deep within Calvinist theology. The maxim 'know thyself,' originating from the ancient Greek tradition and made famous by philosophers like Socrates and Plato, is given a unique interpretation by John Calvin within the Christian theological context.
For Calvin, 'knowing thyself' is intrinsically tied to his doctrine of predestination. This doctrine holds that God, in His omniscience, has already determined who will be saved and who will be condemned. Therefore, to 'know thyself' in the Calvinist view is to recognize one's total dependence on God's grace for salvation and the inability to influence one's own salvation through deeds or works. It involves a deep humility and understanding of one's own sinfulness and the lack of free will in the face of divine preordination. As part of this self-knowledge, Calvinists would meticulously examine their lives for signs of being among the 'elect' — those predestined for salvation — aware that they could never truly know their fate but seeking assurance through their faith and conduct.
Understanding and accepting one's predestined fate, being aware of one's sinfulness, and constantly examining one's faith and deeds for signs of God's grace are all elements of what it means to 'know thyself' in the context of Calvin's theological framework.