Being Quote by Maimonides
“Form can only be destroyed accidentally, i.e., on account of its connexion with substance, the true nature of which consists in the property of never being without a disposition to receive form.”
About This Quote
Source Philosophy: Guide for the Perplexed, Book III, 1190
Form depends on substance; substance inherently seeks to receive form, so destruction of form is accidental.
In simple terms: Form is tied to substance, which always wants form.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the interplay of form and substance.
Themes
metaphysics
ontology
Aristotelianism
Mood
contemplative
analytical
Type
philosophical
theoretical
When to use this quote
- theoretical discussion
- academic writing
- philosophical analysis
Key Concepts
substance
form
disposition
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this view affect our understanding of change?
- Can accidental destruction be prevented?
![“Whatever form it has, it [matter] will be disposed to receive another form; it never leaves off moving and casting off the form which it has in order to receive another. ...It is therefore clear that all corruption, destruction, or defect comes from matter.” quote by Maimonides](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/116/maimonides-2639_casting_whatever-form-it-has-it-matter-will-be-d_1683499.jpg)
![“WHEN reading my present treatise, bear in mind that by "faith" we do not understand merely that which is uttered with the lips, but also that which is apprehended by the soul, the conviction that the object [of belief] is exactly as it is apprehended. If, as regards real or supposed truths, you…” quote by Maimonides](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/fbb/maimonides-2639_articles_when-reading-my-present-treatise-bear-in_78488.jpg)
