Attention Quote by Maimonides
“The Prophets even express their surprise that God should take notice of man, who is too little and too unimportant to be worthy of the attention of the Creator; how, then, should other living creatures be considered as proper objects for Divine Providence!”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: Guide for the Perplexed, 1190
God's attention to humanity seems disproportionate given our insignificance, raising questions about divine providence toward all creatures.
In simple terms: Divine care for tiny beings seems odd.
Key Takeaway
Contemplate the breadth of divine concern.
Themes
theology
humility
divine care
existence
Mood
contemplative
serious
Type
theological
philosophical
When to use this quote
- Religious study
- ethical reflection
- environmental ethics
Key Concepts
Divine providence
anthropocentrism
theodicy
Questions to Reflect On
- Why does the divine care for all?
- What does this mean for human responsibility?
A Different Perspective
Divine focus may be symbolic rather than literal.
![“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)
![“I went to a mosque in Philadelphia with [my wife] in December 24, 1999. And we we went to this mosque in Philly, and I just had such a strong reaction to the prayer. And I was really emotionally - I felt really grounded at that time. And so to be in this prayer and the imam is doing the prayer in…” quote by Mahershala Ali](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d31/mahershala-ali-6687_attention_i-went-to-a-mosque-in-philadelphia-with_3083.jpg)
