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The right use of the exercise of the will is a condition…

“The right use of the exercise of the will is a condition of salvation, necessary without a doubt, but remote, inferior, very subordinated, purely negative. Muscular effort pulls up weeds, but only the sun and water can make wheat grow. The will cannot produce any good in the soul.” quote by Simone Weil
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““The right use of the exercise of the will is a condition of salvation, necessary without a doubt, but remote, inferior, very subordinated, purely negative. Muscular effort pulls up weeds, but only the sun and water can make wheat grow. The will cannot produce any good in the soul.””

Simone Weil

About This Quote

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

The will alone cannot create good; it can only remove obstacles, while true growth requires nurturing forces beyond personal effort.

In simple terms: Will alone can't produce good; nurturing is needed.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate external sources of growth.

Themes

will spirituality effort humility growth

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical spiritual

When to use this quote

  • personal development
  • spiritual practice
  • overcoming obstacles

Key Concepts

negative will negative effort spiritual discipline

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you seek external nourishment for your goals?
  • What obstacles can you remove to allow growth?
A Different Perspective

Will alone is insufficient without supportive conditions.

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