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It is not solely or chiefly in virtue of the divine image…

“It is not solely or chiefly in virtue of the divine image that man effectively resembles God, but in virtue of his consciousness of being an image and the movement whereby the soul, passing in a way through itself, avails itself of the factual resemblance in order to attain to God.” quote by Étienne Gilson
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““It is not solely or chiefly in virtue of the divine image that man effectively resembles God, but in virtue of his consciousness of being an image and the movement whereby the soul, passing in a way through itself, avails itself of the factual resemblance in order to attain to God.””

Étienne Gilson

About This Quote

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

Human likeness to the divine arises from self‑awareness and the soul’s journey toward God, not merely from being created in His image.

In simple terms: Self‑knowledge links to divinity.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate conscious self‑reflection.

Themes

theology philosophy identity

Mood

contemplative serene inquisitive

Type

theological philosophical

When to use this quote

  • prayer
  • meditation
  • ethical living
  • education

Key Concepts

metaphysics spirituality anthropology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does self‑awareness shape your spiritual path?
  • What practices deepen your sense of divine connection?
A Different Perspective

Interpretations of divine image vary across cultures.

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