All kinds Quote by Karen Armstrong
“Theologians in all the great faiths have devised all kinds of myths to show that this type of kenosis, of self-emptying, is found in the life of God itself. They do not do this because it sounds edifying, but because this is the way that human nature seems to work. We are most creative and sense other possibilities that transcend our ordinary experience when we leave ourselves behind.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The History of God by Karen Armstrong, 1993
The quote suggests that myths of divine self‑emptying (kenosis) reflect how humans naturally think creatively when they let go of ego.
In simple terms: Myths of divine self‑emptying mirror human creativity when ego is set aside.
Key Takeaway
Embrace self‑emptying to unlock deeper insight.
Themes
spirituality
myth
creativity
ego
divine nature
Mood
contemplative
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal meditation
- artistic creation
- spiritual practice
- psychotherapy
- leadership development
Key Concepts
Kenosis
mythmaking
psychology
theology
Questions to Reflect On
- How does letting go of self expand your perception?
- What risks arise when ego is completely relinquished?
A Different Perspective
Self‑emptying can be misinterpreted as loss of agency rather than empowerment.
