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It can happen that when we are at prayer some brothers…

“It can happen that when we are at prayer some brothers come to see us. Then we have to choose either to interrupt our prayer or to sadden our brother by refusing to answer him. But love is greater than prayer. Prayer is one virtue among others, whereas love contains them all.” quote by John Climacus
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“It can happen that when we are at prayer some brothers come to see us. Then we have to choose either to interrupt our prayer or to sadden our brother by refusing to answer him. But love is greater than prayer. Prayer is one virtue among others, whereas love contains them all.”

John Climacus

About This Quote

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

The passage reflects on the tension between prayer and responding to a brother in need, emphasizing that love supersedes ritual.

In simple terms: Love is more important than any single virtue like prayer.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize love over ritual when they conflict.

Themes

love prayer virtue brotherly care

Mood

thoughtful compassionate

Type

spiritual ethical

When to use this quote

  • emergency assistance
  • family support
  • spiritual counseling

Key Concepts

ethical hierarchy compassion spiritual practice

Questions to Reflect On

  • When should you interrupt personal practice for others?
  • What does love mean in your daily actions?
A Different Perspective

It may simplify complex religious duties into a single hierarchy.

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