Divine love Quote by C.G. Jung
““Every view which interprets the symbolic expression as an analogous or abbreviated expression of a known thing is semiotic. A view which interprets the symbolic expression as the best possible formulation of a relatively unknown thing, which for that reason cannot be more clearly or characteristically represented, is symbolic. A view which interprets the symbolic expression as an intentional paraphrase or transmogrification of a known thing is allegoric. The interpretation of the cross as a symbol of divine love is semiotic, because “divine love” describes the fact to be expressed better and more aptly than a cross, which can have many other meanings. On the other hand, an interpretation of the cross is symbolic when it puts the cross beyond all conceivable explanations, regarding it as expressing an as yet unknown and incomprehensible fact of a mystical or transcendent, i.e., psychological, nature, which simply finds itself most appropriately represented in the cross.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Symbolic Life” by C.G. Jung, 1933
Symbols can be interpreted as semiotic (representing known concepts), symbolic (expressing unknown truths), or allegoric (paraphrasing known ideas).
In simple terms: Symbols have multiple layers of meaning.
Explore deeper meanings of symbols.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- art analysis
- religious study
- literary criticism
- personal introspection
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What symbols in your life hold hidden meanings?
- How do cultural contexts shape symbolic interpretation?
Interpretations can be subjective and culturally biased.