Accidents Quote by Maimonides
“He who thinks he can have flesh and bones without being subject to any external influence, or any accidents of matter, unconsciously wishes to reconcile two opposites, viz., to be at the same time subject and not subject to change. If man were never subject to change there could be no generation; there would be one single being, but no individuals forming a species.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: Guide for the Perplexed, 1190
Human beings desire to be both immutable and changeable, but true existence requires change, enabling individuality and species formation.
In simple terms: People want stability yet need change to be unique.
Accept change as essential to identity.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- scientific research
- creative work
- social evolution
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does embracing change affect your sense of self?
- What aspects of life resist change?
Change can cause loss and uncertainty, challenging comfort zones.