Buddhism Quote by Gabriel Marcel
““But someone may ask, is there any real reason why these sages, whether Buddhist or Stoic, should not recapture the soul of the child? One fact prevents them, according to Wust; they have broken away from the filial relationship with the Supreme Spirit, and this alone is what enables a man to have a child-like attitude towards the ultimate secret of things. This relationship is automatically destroyed by the triumph of naturalistic philosophy, which depersonalised the supreme principle of the universe: for to this view necessity can only appear as either fate or blind chance; and a man weighed down by such a burden is in no state ever to regain his vanished delight and absolute trust. He can no longer cling to the deep metaphysical optimism, wherein the primal simplicity of the creature in the morning of life joins the simplicity of the sage - better here to call him the saint - who, after journeying through experience, returns to the original point of the circle; the happy state of childhood which is almost the lost paradise of the human mind.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Mystery of Being, 1952
The quote argues that modern naturalistic philosophy severs the child‑like trust in the universe, preventing people from regaining a simple, hopeful faith akin to that of sages.
In simple terms: Modern philosophy can block a child‑like, hopeful trust in life.
Reconnect with child‑like wonder and trust.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal crisis
- spiritual seeking
- education reform
- mental health therapy
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we balance rational inquiry with child‑like wonder?
- What practices nurture a simple, hopeful faith?
It may overlook the value of critical thinking and rational skepticism.