Skip to content

He who has mastery over his incensive power has mastery…

“He who has mastery over his incensive power has mastery also over the demons. But anyone who is a slave to it is a stranger to the ways of the Saviour, for as the Saviour enjoined us: 'Learn from Me; for I am gentle and humble in heart: and you will find rest for your souls' (Mt. 11:29). Now if a…” quote by Evagrius Ponticus
Download Open image
“He who has mastery over his incensive power has mastery also over the demons. But anyone who is a slave to it is a stranger to the ways of the Saviour, for as the Saviour enjoined us: 'Learn from Me; for I am gentle and humble in heart: and you will find rest for your souls' (Mt. 11:29). Now if a man abstains from food and drink, but becomes incensed to wrath because of evil thoughts, he is like a ship sailing the open sea with a demon for a pilot.”

Evagrius Ponticus

About This Quote

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

Self‑control over anger leads to spiritual mastery; unchecked wrath makes one a slave to demonic forces.

In simple terms: Control anger to master yourself.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate humility and gentleness.

Themes

self‑control spirituality humility

Mood

reflective spiritual

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • prayer
  • meditation
  • conflict management

Key Concepts

theology psychology ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you practice humility during anger?
  • What practices help calm a wrathful mind?
A Different Perspective

Self‑control is difficult in stressful situations.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Evagrius Ponticus

Explore all 18 Evagrius Ponticus quotes

More Christian quotes

Browse all 14,306 Christian quotes