Ontologically, chocolate raises profoundly disturbing questions: Does not chocolate offer natural revelation of the goodness of the Creator just as chilies disclose a divine sense of humor? Is the human born with an innate longing for chocolate? Does the notion of chocolate preclude the concept of free will?

In this quote, David Augsburger explores the philosophical and ontological implications of chocolate, suggesting that something as seemingly simple as chocolate raises profound questions about existence and the nature of creation. He muses that chocolate may offer a natural revelation of the goodness of the Creator, implying that the creation of chocolate is a divine gift that reflects the benevolence and generosity of the Creator. Similarly, he humorously contrasts chocolate with chilies, claiming that they reveal a divine sense of humor, which is a playful way of acknowledging the diverse range of experiences that food can offer.

Augsburger goes further, pondering whether humans are born with an innate longing for chocolate, hinting at the deep-seated connection people feel toward it, almost as if it were a universal desire embedded in our nature. This question delves into the concept of instinctual desires and whether our cravings for certain pleasures, like chocolate, are more than just learned behaviors but part of our inherent being.

The final question Augsburger raises, asking if the notion of chocolate precludes the concept of free will, is an exploration of whether our intense desire for chocolate might limit our ability to make conscious, free choices. This idea presents chocolate not just as a treat but as a symbol of how certain pleasures might influence or even control our actions, suggesting that our desires could undermine our freedom of choice.

Ultimately, Augsburger’s quote is a humorous yet thought-provoking exploration of chocolate from a philosophical and theological perspective. By raising questions about divinity, instinct, and free will, he uses chocolate as a metaphor to spark deeper reflections on human nature, creation, and the complexities of desire.