The mind unlearned in reverence, says Bonaventure…
“The mind unlearned in reverence, says Bonaventure (1221-1274), is in danger of becoming so captivated by the spectacle of beings as to be altogether forgetful of being in itself; and our mechanistic approach to the world is nothing but ontological obliviousness translated into a living tradition.”
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 reverence can turn into obsession with appearances, causing us to forget deeper existence, and that a purely mechanistic worldview blinds us to true being.
In simple terms: Reverence can become obsession, hiding true existence.
Key Takeaway
Beware superficial focus.
Themes
philosophy
ontology
spirituality
critical thinking
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- education
- personal development
- philosophical discourse
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
Existentialism
mechanistic worldview
ontological awareness
Questions to Reflect On
- What does it mean to truly “be” beyond appearances?
- How can we balance reverence with critical inquiry?
A Different Perspective
Mechanistic view may be necessary for scientific progress.