Arrows Quote by Dorotheus of Gaza
“A man who gives way to his passions is like a man who is shot by an enemy, catches the arrow in his hands, and then plunges it into his own heart. A man who is resisting his passions is like a man who is shot by an enemy, and although the arrow hits him, it does not seriously wound him because he is wearing a breastplate. But the man who is uprooting his passions is like a man who is shot by an enemy, but who strikes the arrow and shatters it or turns it back into his enemies heart.”
About This Quote
Source Sermon: Homilies of Dorotheus of Gaza, 6th century
Yielding to passion leads to self‑destruction; resisting it leaves one vulnerable; mastering it turns destructive forces inward against their source.
In simple terms: Giving in harms you; resisting leaves wounds; mastering redirects harm.
Key Takeaway
Learn to master passions, not be ruled by them.
Themes
self‑control
conflict
inner strength
Mood
determined
reflective
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- career decisions
- conflict resolution
- stress management
Key Concepts
philosophy
spiritual warfare
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you transform a harmful impulse into constructive energy?
- What practices help you observe passions without immediate reaction?
A Different Perspective
Mastery requires discipline and awareness, not just willpower.
