[T]he mind wearies easily when it strives to grapple with…
““[T]he mind wearies easily when it strives to grapple with the Infinite, and to trace the footsteps of the Almighty as he strides from sphere to sphere, or deduce his purpose from his works. Such things are not for us to know. Knowledge is to the strong, and we are weak. Too much wisdom would perchance blind our imperfect sight, and too much strength would make us drunk, and overweight our feeble reason till it fell, and we were drowned in the depths of our own vanity. For what is the first result of man's increased knowledge interpreted from Nature's book by the persistent effort of his purblind observation? Is it not but too often to make him question the existence of his Maker, or indeed of any intelligent purpose beyond his own? The truth is veiled, because we could no more look upon her glory than we can upon the sun. It would destroy us. Full knowledge is not for man as man is here, for his capacities, which he is apt to think so great, are indeed but small. The vessel is soon filled, and, were one thousandth part of the unutterable and silent wisdom that directs the rolling of those shining spheres, and the force which makes them roll, pressed into it, it would be shattered into fragments.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Human pursuit of ultimate knowledge can overwhelm our limited capacities, leading to hubris and existential doubt.
In simple terms: Seeking too much knowledge can blind and overwhelm us.
Recognize limits, seek humility.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- research ethics
- education
- personal reflection
- policy making
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What knowledge is appropriate for humanity to pursue?
- How do we balance curiosity with humility?
May underestimate the value of partial understanding and practical wisdom.