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O God, enlarge within us the sense of fellowship with all…

“O God, enlarge within us the sense of fellowship with all living things, even our brothers, the animals, to whom Thou gavest the earth as their home in common with us. We must remember with shame that in the past we have exercised the high dominion of man with ruthless cruelty so that the voice of…” quote by Saint Basil
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“O God, enlarge within us the sense of fellowship with all living things, even our brothers, the animals, to whom Thou gavest the earth as their home in common with us. We must remember with shame that in the past we have exercised the high dominion of man with ruthless cruelty so that the voice of the earth, which should have gone up to thee in song, has been a groan of pain. May we realize that they live, not for us alone, but for themselves and for Thee and that they love the sweetness of life.”

Saint Basil

About This Quote

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

We must recognize fellowship with all living beings, acknowledging past cruelty and the shared earth, and respect the intrinsic value of all life.

In simple terms: Respect all life and remember past cruelty.

Key Takeaway

Treat all creatures with respect and humility.

Themes

compassion environment humility

Mood

reverent hopeful

Type

spiritual ethical

When to use this quote

  • conservation
  • animal welfare
  • community building
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

theology ethics interconnectedness

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you practice stewardship in daily life?
  • What actions can reduce harm to other species?
A Different Perspective

Human dominance often ignores the suffering of other beings.

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