Our passions are the chief means of self-preservation; to…
“Our passions are the chief means of self-preservation; to try to destroy them is therefore as absurd as it is useless; this would be to overcome nature, to reshape God's handiwork. If God bade man annihilate the passions he has given him, God would bid him be and not be; He would contradict himself. He has never given such a foolish commandment, there is nothing like it written on the heart of man, and what God will have a man do, He does not leave to the words of another man. He speaks Himself; His words are written in the secret heart.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Passions are essential to human survival; trying to eliminate them contradicts nature and divine intent.
In simple terms: Passions protect us; destroying them is absurd.
Key Takeaway
Respect and understand your passions.
Themes
human nature
religion
psychology
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- spiritual practice
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
self‑preservation
divine order
human instinct
Questions to Reflect On
- How do your passions guide your decisions?
- What risks arise from denying natural desires?
A Different Perspective
Attempting to suppress passions can lead to psychological distress.