Skip to content

Not given, not blessed by God, it was food whose eating…

“Not given, not blessed by God, it was food whose eating was condemned to be communion with itself alone, and not with God. It is the image of the world loved for itself, and eating it is the image of life understood as an end in itself.” quote by Alexander Schmemann
Download Open image
““Not given, not blessed by God, it was food whose eating was condemned to be communion with itself alone, and not with God. It is the image of the world loved for itself, and eating it is the image of life understood as an end in itself.””

Alexander Schmemann

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The quote warns that treating the world merely as an end in itself, detached from the divine, leads to a hollow, self‑absorbing existence.

In simple terms: World‑focused life without God is empty.

Key Takeaway

Seek purpose beyond materialism.

Themes

spirituality materialism purpose

Mood

contemplative serious

Type

philosophical theological

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • religious study
  • ethical decision making

Key Concepts

theology existentialism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance appreciation of the world with spiritual meaning?
  • Can material joy coexist with divine purpose?
A Different Perspective

It may overlook the value of tangible experiences and community.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Alexander Schmemann

Explore all 35 Alexander Schmemann quotes

More Communion quotes

Browse all 695 Communion quotes