As for us, we who do not believe what these women believe…
““As for us, we who do not believe what these women believe, but live like them by faith, never could look without a sort of tender and religious awe, a kind of pity full of envy, at those devoted beings, trembling yet confident-those humble yet august souls, who date to live on the brink of the great mystery, waiting between the world closed to them and heaven not yet opened; turned toward the daylight not yet seen, with only the happiness of thinking that they know where it is; their aspirations directed toward the abyss and the unknown, their gaze fixes on the motionless obscurity, kneeling, dismayed, stupefied, shuddering, and half carried of sometimes by the deep breath of Eternity.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The speaker admires the devout, humble women whose faith places them on the edge of mystery, evoking awe, envy, and reverence for their spiritual striving.
In simple terms: Admiration for humble, faithful women facing mystery.
Key Takeaway
Respect and emulate their humble devotion.
Themes
faith
humility
spirituality
envy
reverence
Mood
awe
envy
reverence
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- religious contemplation
- personal reflection
- seeking meaning
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
mysticism
existential longing
devotion
Questions to Reflect On
- How does faith shape one's perception of mystery?
- What can we learn from humble devotion?
A Different Perspective
Their devotion may blind them to practical realities.