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Would that men might come at last to see that it is quite…

“Would that men might come at last to see that it is quite impossible to reach the thicket of the riches and wisdom of God except by first entering the thicket of much suffering, in such a way that the soul finds there its consolation and desire. The soul that longs for divine wisdom chooses first…” quote by John of the Cross
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“Would that men might come at last to see that it is quite impossible to reach the thicket of the riches and wisdom of God except by first entering the thicket of much suffering, in such a way that the soul finds there its consolation and desire. The soul that longs for divine wisdom chooses first, and in truth, to enter the thicket of the cross.”

John of the Cross

About This Quote

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

Spiritual growth requires enduring suffering, as true wisdom and divine union are found through the hardships symbolized by the cross.

In simple terms: Suffering is necessary to reach divine wisdom.

Key Takeaway

Embrace hardship as a path to spiritual depth.

Themes

spirituality uffering wisdom faith

Mood

contemplative hopeful

Type

religious philosophical

When to use this quote

  • prayer
  • pilgrimage
  • personal trials
  • religious study

Key Concepts

theology mysticism redemption

Questions to Reflect On

  • What suffering have you faced that deepened your faith?
  • How can you find meaning in hardship?
A Different Perspective

Suffering alone does not guarantee insight; balance with hope.

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