Abandon Quote by Jeanne Marie Bouvier de la Motte Guyon
“How can they be delivered from the life of self, who are not willing to abandon all their possessions? How can they believe themselves despoiled of all, who possess the greatest treasure under heaven? Do not oblige me to name it, but judge, if you are enlightened; there is one of them which is less than the other, which is lost before it, but which those who must lose everything have the greatest trouble in parting with.”
About This Quote
The passage questions how those attached to material life can truly grasp spiritual treasure, suggesting enlightenment requires letting go of possessions.
In simple terms: Spiritual insight needs release of material attachment.
Release possessions to find deeper truth.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- monastic life
- philosophical practice
- personal crisis
- meditative retreat
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “the greatest treasure” mean to you?
- How can you practice letting go without fear?
True insight may be hindered by fear of loss and identity tied to possessions.