[Milton's] argument is (a) St. Augustine was wrong in…
![“[Milton's] argument is (a) St. Augustine was wrong in thinking God's only purpose in giving Adam a female, instead of a male, companion, was copulation. For (b) there is a "peculiar comfort" in the society of man and woman "beside, (i.e. in addition to, apart from) the genial bed"; and (c) we know…” quote by C. S. Lewis](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/cd5/c-s-lewis-2-132_adam_milton-s-argument-is-a-st-augustine-was_1338657.jpg)
“[Milton's] argument is (a) St. Augustine was wrong in thinking God's only purpose in giving Adam a female, instead of a male, companion, was copulation. For (b) there is a "peculiar comfort" in the society of man and woman "beside, (i.e. in addition to, apart from) the genial bed"; and (c) we know from Scripture that something analogous to "play" or "slackening the cords" occurs even in God. That is why the Song of Songs describes a thousand raptures...far on the hither side of carnal enjoyment.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Lewis argues that God’s purpose for creating woman was not merely sexual, but to provide companionship, comfort, and a deeper relational joy beyond physical intimacy.
In simple terms: Woman offers companionship and deeper joy beyond sex.
Key Takeaway
Value relational intimacy over mere physicality.
Themes
companionship
spirituality
gender roles
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
theological
When to use this quote
- marriage counseling
- spiritual direction
- gender studies
- relationship building
Key Concepts
theology
philosophy
anthropology
Questions to Reflect On
- How does companionship differ from sexual attraction?
- Can relational joy exist without physical intimacy?
A Different Perspective
Physical intimacy alone cannot fulfill the deeper need for relational comfort.