Submission vs Obedience
Understanding the difference between submission and obedience is important, as we encounter both concepts regularly in our interactions with various groups, social structures, and authority figures. While many people may consider these terms synonymous, there are key distinctions between the two. Obedience involves following orders or commands, whereas submission is about yielding to power or authority. The primary difference between these two terms lies in the individual’s feelings towards the orders being given. This article will explore these differences by examining the meanings of obedience and submission.
What does Obedience mean?
Obedience is a familiar concept to most people, as students, children, employees, and officers all experience it in various forms. It involves following orders and instructions, or simply doing what is told. This is an external reaction to a demand that has been made. When a person obeys a rule, it is not because they necessarily want to, but because they have little choice to do otherwise. For example, a worker who has been ordered to work extra hours during the festive season would complete the work and obey their superior’s orders, not out of genuine desire, but out of necessity to maintain their position.
Another example might involve a student who is punished by a teacher for misbehaving in class and is asked to remain standing throughout the period. The student obeys the teacher because they have little choice; not obeying would likely result in a more severe punishment. This illustrates that obedience is a simple response to an order, command, or instruction.
What does Submission mean?
Submission occurs when a person willingly yields to authority or greater power, typically out of respect for the person in power or authority. Unlike obedience, submission involves an emotional component, with the individual following orders because they respect and willingly comply with instructions. Particularly in religious contexts, individuals often submit to a higher power rather than merely obeying.
When a person submits to authority or power, a bond forms between the one who submits and the one in power, reflecting that submission comes from within, unlike obedience. This is the main difference between the two terms.
Key Takeaways
- Obedience involves following orders, commands, or instructions without necessarily having a genuine desire to do so.
- Submission is about yielding to power or authority out of respect and love for those in power, with a genuine desire to follow instructions.
- The primary difference between obedience and submission lies in the individual’s feelings and motivations behind following orders or instructions.
