Existence Quote by Blaise Pascal
“We know then the existence and nature of the finite, because we also are finite and have extension. We know the existence of the infinite and are ignorant of its nature, because it has extension like us, but not limits like us. But we know neither the existence nor the nature of God, because he has neither extension nor limits.”
About This Quote
Pascal contrasts human knowledge of finite versus infinite, arguing we understand the finite because we share its limits, but cannot grasp the infinite or God, which lack limits.
In simple terms: We know what we share limits with, not what lacks them.
Key Takeaway
Accept the limits of human understanding.
Themes
philosophy
theology
epistemology
metaphysics
Mood
thoughtful
speculative
Type
philosophical
theological
When to use this quote
- academic lectures
- personal study
- spiritual contemplation
Key Concepts
finite vs infinite
human cognition
divine nature
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we approach the unknowable?
- Can we infer about the infinite without limits?
A Different Perspective
The argument may assume limits are necessary for knowledge.
