And though it be their sin and vanity that is the cause…
“And though it be their sin and vanity that is the cause, it is nevertheless your sin to be the unnecessary occasion: for you must consider that you live among diseased souls. And you must not lay a stumblingblock in their way, nor blow up the fire of their lust, nor make your ornaments their snares; but you must walk among sinful persons, as you would do with a candle among straw or gunpowder; or else you may see the flame which you would not foresee, when it is too late to quench it.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
One must avoid causing harm to others, even unintentionally, by being mindful of one's influence.
In simple terms: Don’t be a stumbling block to others.
Live responsibly among others.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- daily interactions
- leadership
- teaching
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you guard against unintended harm?
- What practices help maintain ethical awareness?
Human frailty makes perfect vigilance impossible.