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By my own strength I am able to give up the princess, and…

“By my own strength I am able to give up the princess, and I shall not become a grumbler, but shall find joy and repose in my pain ; but by my own strength I am not able to get her again, for I am employing all my strength to be resigned. But by faith, says that marvellous knight, by faith I shall…” quote by Søren Kierkegaard
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““By my own strength I am able to give up the princess, and I shall not become a grumbler, but shall find joy and repose in my pain ; but by my own strength I am not able to get her again, for I am employing all my strength to be resigned. But by faith, says that marvellous knight, by faith I shall get her in virtue of the absurd.””

Søren Kierkegaard

About This Quote

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

Explores the paradox of self-reliance and faith in achieving love, suggesting that personal effort alone is insufficient without divine trust.

In simple terms: Strength alone can't regain love; faith is needed.

Key Takeaway

Balance effort with faith.

Themes

faith love paradox self-reliance

Mood

reflective philosophical

Type

thought‑provoking existential

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • spiritual crisis
  • ethical decision making

Key Concepts

existentialism absurdism spirituality

Questions to Reflect On

  • What role does faith play in personal sacrifice?
  • Can effort and belief coexist without conflict?
A Different Perspective

Faith may not resolve practical obstacles.

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