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"I seek the meaning of existence," said the stranger. "You…

“"I seek the meaning of existence," said the stranger. "You are of course assuming," said the Master, "that existence has a meaning." "Doesn't it?" "When you experience existence as it is - not as you think it is you will discover that your question has no meaning," said the Master.” quote by Anthony de Mello
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“"I seek the meaning of existence," said the stranger. "You are of course assuming," said the Master, "that existence has a meaning." "Doesn't it?" "When you experience existence as it is - not as you think it is you will discover that your question has no meaning," said the Master.”

Anthony de Mello

About This Quote

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

The Master challenges the idea that existence must have a predefined purpose, urging direct experience over conceptualization.

In simple terms: Existence has no built‑in meaning; we create it.

Key Takeaway

Embrace present awareness instead of searching for purpose.

Themes

philosophy existentialism mindfulness

Mood

contemplative serene

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal crisis
  • meditation
  • therapy
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

meaning purpose consciousness

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does letting go of a fixed purpose affect your daily choices?
  • What does “experience existence as it is” look like for you?
A Different Perspective

The insight may feel unsettling for those seeking certainty.

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