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There is ... a great wisdom in our language. It is the…

“There is ... a great wisdom in our language. It is the embodiment of innumerable experiences of the past. It is not by chance alone that we use certain visible symbols and do not use others. Therefore, it is often useful to find the reasons for the choices of the collective mind of former…” quote by The Shaking of the Foundations Paul Tillich
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““There is ... a great wisdom in our language. It is the embodiment of innumerable experiences of the past. It is not by chance alone that we use certain visible symbols and do not use others. Therefore, it is often useful to find the reasons for the choices of the collective mind of former generations.””

The Shaking of the Foundations Paul Tillich

About This Quote

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

Language carries accumulated wisdom; the symbols we use reflect collective choices of past generations.

In simple terms: Words hold past experiences and choices.

Key Takeaway

Explore language origins and meanings.

Themes

wisdom culture history

Mood

reflective inquisitive

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • anthropology
  • linguistics
  • education
  • cultural studies

Key Concepts

symbolism collective memory

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do symbols shape our thinking?
  • What influences symbol choices?
A Different Perspective

Symbols may be interpreted differently across cultures.

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