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Passion is the evil in adultery. If a man has no…

“Passion is the evil in adultery. If a man has no opportunity of living with another man's wife, but if it is obvious for some reason that he would like to do so, and would do so if he could, he is no less guilty than if he was caught in the act.” quote by Saint Augustine
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“Passion is the evil in adultery. If a man has no opportunity of living with another man's wife, but if it is obvious for some reason that he would like to do so, and would do so if he could, he is no less guilty than if he was caught in the act.”

Saint Augustine

About This Quote

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

Moral desire for another’s spouse is sinful even without action; intent alone carries guilt.

In simple terms: Desiring a married person is wrong even if not acted upon.

Key Takeaway

Avoid acting on or entertaining such desires.

Themes

morality temptation guilt

Mood

reflective serious

Type

ethical theological

When to use this quote

  • marital counseling
  • personal reflection
  • spiritual guidance
  • relationship advice

Key Concepts

Christian ethics sin of thought

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you reconcile thought and deed in moral judgment?
  • Can desire be neutral if unacted?
A Different Perspective

Intent alone may be hard to prove; cultural contexts differ on culpability.

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