Doe Quote by Blaise Pascal
“We know that there is an infinite, and we know not its nature. As we know it to be false that numbers are finite, it is therefore true that there is a numerical infinity. But we know not of what kind; it is untrue that it is even, untrue that it is odd; for the addition of a unit does not change its nature; yet it is a number, and every number is odd or even (this certainly holds of every finite number). Thus we may quite well know that there is a God without knowing what He is.”
About This Quote
The passage argues that while we recognize infinity conceptually, its exact nature is unknowable, yet we can still affirm its existence and liken this to knowing a deity without fully understanding it.
In simple terms: Infinity is known but its nature is unknown, similar to God.
Key Takeaway
Accept that some truths are beyond full comprehension.
Themes
philosophy
metaphysics
theology
infinity
knowledge
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
reflective
Type
philosophical
theological
When to use this quote
- theoretical mathematics
- philosophical debate
- religious contemplation
- educational lectures
- academic writing
Key Concepts
conceptual limits
faith
logic
paradox
Questions to Reflect On
- Can we truly know something without understanding its essence?
- How does acknowledging limits affect belief?
A Different Perspective
The argument may conflate mathematical infinity with theological concepts.
