In relation to God, we are like a thief who has burgled…
“In relation to God, we are like a thief who has burgled the house of a kindly householder and been allowed to keep some of the gold. From the point of view of the lawful owner this gold is a gift; Form the point of view of the burglar it is a theft. He must go and give it back. It is the same with our existence. We have stolen a little of God's being to make it ours. God has made us a gift of it. But we have stolen it. We must return it.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
We have borrowed existence from the divine, like a thief keeping a gift, and must eventually return it.
In simple terms: We owe our lives back to God.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and restore what is borrowed.
Themes
spirituality
ethics
existence
Mood
contemplative
serene
Type
philosophical
spiritual
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- religious practice
- ethical living
Key Concepts
theology
gift
return
burden
humility
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you honor the source of your being?
- What does returning look like in daily life?
A Different Perspective
Returning may feel impossible when we cling to comfort.