But man, being endowed with reason, and in this respect…
““But man, being endowed with reason, and in this respect like to God, having been made free in his will, and with power over himself, is himself the cause to himself, that sometimes he becomes wheat, and sometimes chaff. Wherefore also he shall be justly condemned, because, having been created a rational being, he lost the true rationality, and living irrationally, opposed the righteousness of God, giving himself over to every earthly spirit, and serving all lusts; as says the prophet, “Man, being in honour, did not understand: he was assimilated to senseless beasts, and made like to them.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Human free will leads to moral choices, causing both virtue and vice.
In simple terms: Free will can produce good or bad outcomes.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate rational choices to align with virtue.
Themes
theology
ethics
human nature
Mood
contemplative
solemn
Type
spiritual
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal decision making
- ethical leadership
- spiritual counseling
- moral education
Key Concepts
free will
moral responsibility
spiritual struggle
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance reason and desire?
- What practices strengthen rational self‑governance?
A Different Perspective
Human nature also includes innate tendencies toward good.