Skip to content

Abuse Quote by Francois Mauriac

“The man who partakes in the breaking of the bread dares to build his house on the very core of love. He becomes, as it were, Godlike, but regardless of the strength he derives from it, his free will remains. We are always free to disown this immense grace, to abuse it. The Greatest Love may be…” quote by Francois Mauriac
Download Open image
“The man who partakes in the breaking of the bread dares to build his house on the very core of love. He becomes, as it were, Godlike, but regardless of the strength he derives from it, his free will remains. We are always free to disown this immense grace, to abuse it. The Greatest Love may be betrayed. Fed on the Living Bread, we nevertheless conceal a part of ourselves which longs for swine's food.”

Francois Mauriac

About This Quote

Source Book: Thérèse Desqueyroux by François Mauriac, 1927

The quote suggests that sharing love’s sustenance grants divine-like power, yet free will lets us reject or misuse that grace, exposing inner conflict between spiritual nourishment and base desires.

In simple terms: Sharing love gives power but we can still choose misuse.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the responsibility that comes with love.

Themes

love free will spirituality responsibility human nature

Mood

reflective somber thoughtful

Type

philosophical spiritual

When to use this quote

  • religious practice
  • personal relationships
  • ethical decision making
  • spiritual growth

Key Concepts

divine potential grace inner conflict

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you ever feel your love is misused?
  • How can you honor love without succumbing to base urges?
A Different Perspective

Even with love’s strength, human frailty can lead to betrayal.

3.4 out of 5 (3 ratings)

More by Francois Mauriac

Explore all 55 Francois Mauriac quotes

More Abuse quotes

Browse all 3,113 Abuse quotes