Abstract Quote by Maimonides
“The corporeal element in man is a large screen and partition that prevents him from perfectly perceiving abstract ideals; this would be the case even if the corporeal element were as pure and superior as the substance of the spheres ; how much more must this be the case with our dark and opaque body. However great the exertion of our mind may be to comprehend the Divine Being or any of the ideals, we find a screen and partition between God and us.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: Guide for the Perplexed, 1190
The physical body acts as a barrier that blocks clear perception of higher, abstract truths, even if the body were pure.
In simple terms: The body blocks clear view of higher ideas.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and transcend bodily limitations.
Themes
philosophy
spirituality
human nature
Mood
contemplative
serious
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- meditation
- study of metaphysics
- ethical living
Key Concepts
Dualism
perception
divine
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we lessen the body's obstructive influence?
- What practices sharpen abstract perception?
A Different Perspective
Even with intense mental effort, the body still separates us from the divine.
![“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)
