The dependence of human beings on nature is the basis of religion. This statement summarizes the understanding of religion of Ludwig Feuerbach as he presented it in his short treatise The Essence of Religion (1846). With this work he shifted the focus of his religious research on the concept of nature. In comparison with his most famous work The Essence of Christianity (1841) his thinking, trying to get to the origins of religion, is working here on a somewhat deeper level. The root of religion is not to be found only in humanity but much more in the relationship of humanity with a nature which is independent from human beings. Feuerbach saw in this definition the key to an enligthened understanding of religion.