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Very well, then: why are you attached to any one book, or…

“Very well, then: why are you attached to any one book, or to the words and ways of one saint when he himself tells you to let them go and walk in simplicity? To hang on to him as if to make a method of him is to contradict him and to go in the opposite direction to the one in which he would have…” quote by Thomas Merton
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“Very well, then: why are you attached to any one book, or to the words and ways of one saint when he himself tells you to let them go and walk in simplicity? To hang on to him as if to make a method of him is to contradict him and to go in the opposite direction to the one in which he would have you travel.”

Thomas Merton

About This Quote

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

Clinging to any single authority limits growth; true simplicity comes from letting go and following the deeper path.

In simple terms: Don’t over‑rely on one source.

Key Takeaway

Release rigid attachments to find freedom.

Themes

spirituality freedom simplicity

Mood

reflective contemplative

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • prayer
  • study
  • decision making
  • creative work

Key Concepts

philosophy religion personal growth

Questions to Reflect On

  • What belief are you holding onto too tightly?
  • How might letting go open new possibilities?
A Different Perspective

Some traditions value consistency over flexibility.

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