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Animal Quote by Francis of Assisi

“Holy obedience confounds all bodily and fleshly desires and keeps the body mortified to the obedience of the spirit and to the obedience of one's brother and makes a man subject to all the men of this world and not to men alone, but also to all beasts and wild animals, so that they may do with him…” quote by Francis of Assisi
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“Holy obedience confounds all bodily and fleshly desires and keeps the body mortified to the obedience of the spirit and to the obedience of one's brother and makes a man subject to all the men of this world and not to men alone, but also to all beasts and wild animals, so that they may do with him whatsoever they will, in so far as it may be granted to them from above by the Lord.”

Francis of Assisi

About This Quote

True obedience redirects desire from bodily cravings to spiritual and communal service.

In simple terms: Obedience shifts focus to spirit and community.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize spiritual over material desires.

Themes

spirituality obedience community

Mood

contemplative serious

Type

theological philosophical

When to use this quote

  • religious life
  • volunteering
  • ethical leadership
  • environmental stewardship

Key Concepts

theology human nature

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does one balance spiritual obedience with self‑care?
  • In what ways can community service reflect spiritual obedience?
A Different Perspective

Excessive self‑denial can harm personal well‑being.

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