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Book Quote by Hannah More

“The constant habit of perusing devout books is so indispensable, that it has been termed the oil of the lamp of prayer. Too much reading, however, and too little meditation, may produce the effect of a lamp inverted; which is extinguished by the very excess of that ailment, whose property is to…” quote by Hannah More
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“The constant habit of perusing devout books is so indispensable, that it has been termed the oil of the lamp of prayer. Too much reading, however, and too little meditation, may produce the effect of a lamp inverted; which is extinguished by the very excess of that ailment, whose property is to feed it.”

Hannah More

About This Quote

Source Book: Sermons to the People, Hannah More, 1795

Reading sacred texts nurtures prayer, but excessive reading without contemplation can diminish its purpose.

In simple terms: Reading helps prayer, but too much without reflection harms it.

Key Takeaway

Balance study with meditation.

Themes

spirituality reading balance

Mood

contemplative reflective

Type

advice spiritual

When to use this quote

  • personal prayer
  • study groups
  • spiritual retreats
  • daily devotion

Key Concepts

devotion reflection moderation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you integrate reflection after reading?
  • What practices deepen your prayer?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on reading can lead to superficial understanding.

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