Angel Quote by John Donne
“Men are sponges, which, to pour out, receive; Who know false play, rather than lose, deceive. For in best understandings sin began, Angels sinn'd first, then devils, and then man. Only perchance beasts sin not ; wretched we Are beasts in all but white integrity.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: Holy Sonnets, 1633
The passage reflects on human fallibility, comparing men to sponges that absorb sin, and suggests that even angels and devils have origins in sin, questioning moral integrity.
In simple terms: Men absorb sin like sponges; even angels and devils began with sin.
Key Takeaway
Recognize shared imperfection and seek humility.
Themes
human nature
sin
morality
humility
Mood
somber
thoughtful
Type
poetic
theological
When to use this quote
- personal guilt
- spiritual reflection
- ethical debate
- literary analysis
Key Concepts
theology
philosophy
ethical relativism
Questions to Reflect On
- What does it mean to be a 'sponge' for sin?
- Can understanding shared fallibility foster compassion?
A Different Perspective
The metaphor may oversimplify complex moral agency and ignore redemption.
![“That was the birth of sin. Not doing it, but KNOWING about it. Before the apple, [Adam and Eve] had shut their eyes and their minds had gone dark. Now, they peeped and pried and imagined. They watched themselves.” quote by D. H. Lawrence](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/238/d-h-lawrence-426_adam_that-was-the-birth-of-sin-not-doing-it-b_705977.jpg)
