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What gnashing is not a comfort, what gnawing of the worm…

“What gnashing is not a comfort, what gnawing of the worm is not a tickling, what torment is not a marriage bed to this damnation, to be secluded eternally, eternally, eternally from the sight of God?” quote by John Donne
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“What gnashing is not a comfort, what gnawing of the worm is not a tickling, what torment is not a marriage bed to this damnation, to be secluded eternally, eternally, eternally from the sight of God?”

John Donne

About This Quote

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

The soul’s torment is the endless separation from divine presence, a profound spiritual anguish.

In simple terms: Separation from God causes torment.

Key Takeaway

Seek spiritual connection to ease suffering.

Themes

spirituality anguish faith

Mood

somber contemplative

Type

poetic theological

When to use this quote

  • prayer
  • meditation
  • life crises

Key Concepts

theology existentialism metaphor

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does one find meaning in spiritual longing?
  • What practices alleviate existential dread?
A Different Perspective

Faith may not resolve all suffering.

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