Skip to content

Believe Quote by Maimonides

“An ignorant man believes that the whole universe only exists for him: as if nothing else required any consideration. If, therefore, anything happens to him contrary to his expectation, he at once concludes that the whole universe is evil. If, however, he would take into consideration the whole…” quote by Maimonides
Download Open image
“An ignorant man believes that the whole universe only exists for him: as if nothing else required any consideration. If, therefore, anything happens to him contrary to his expectation, he at once concludes that the whole universe is evil. If, however, he would take into consideration the whole universe, form an idea of it, and comprehend what a small portion he is of the Universe, he will find the truth. There are many ... passages in the books of the prophets expressing the same idea.”

Maimonides

About This Quote

Source Book: Guide for the Perplexed, Moses Maimonides, 1190

Realizing one's insignificance in the vast universe leads to humility and a more accurate understanding of reality.

In simple terms: Seeing oneself as small in the cosmos fosters humility.

Key Takeaway

Embrace humility by recognizing your limited perspective.

Themes

humility perspective knowledge ego truth

Mood

thoughtful inspirational

Type

philosophical spiritual

When to use this quote

  • personal growth
  • spiritual practice
  • academic study
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

philosophy theology psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does it mean to see yourself as part of a larger whole?
  • How can humility improve decision‑making?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on self can cause misinterpretation of events.

2.7 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Maimonides

Explore all 156 Maimonides quotes

More Believe quotes

Browse all 47,704 Believe quotes