Phenomenon is defined as "a thing that appears or is perceived." Noumenon is imperceptible to the material senses; phenomenon is seen, felt, heard, smelled. or tasted. For the purpose of illustration, noumenon may be likened to a dynamo which generates electricity, although the electricity is not apparent until applied to a lamp, a motor, or a radio, when the phenomenon of light, power, or sound is produced. Noumenon is cause; phenomenon is effect.
In its common usage, the word "phenomenon" suggests something remarkable, a thing or occurrence not readily understood or easily explained. But phenomenon is not accidental—it is always and invariably a direct correlative of a cause. Would it not be illogical, then, to try to understand phenomenon, or effect, without first seeking an understanding of noumenon, or cause, its antecedent?
Christian Scientists accept the first chapter of Genesis as the only and true record of creation. From this Scriptural account we understand God's creation to be spiritual. We understand and acknowledge man created "in God's image" —imaging forth God's nature and qualities: "in God's likeness"—therefore spiritual; "having dominion over all the earth." And we acknowledge this entire creation to be essentially as stated— "good." If all causation is spiritual and good, effect must be of the nature of its antecedent or cause; therefore all effect must be spiritual and likewise good.
