Brilliant Quote by Marilynne Robinson
“If you read Calvin, for example, he says, How do we know that we are godlike, in the image of God? Well, look at how brilliant we are. Look how we can solve problems even dreaming, which I think is true, which I've done myself. So instead of having an externalized model of reality with an objective structure, it has a model of reality that is basically continuously renegotiated in human perception. I think that view of things is pretty pervasively influential in Protestant thought.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Gilead by Marilynne Robinson, 2004
The quote suggests that human brilliance and problem‑solving reflect a divine likeness, and that our perception continuously reshapes reality, a view shaping Protestant thought.
In simple terms: Human creativity shows divine likeness; perception reshapes reality.
Key Takeaway
Recognize our creative power and its spiritual implications.
Themes
spirituality
human nature
perception
protestantism
Mood
contemplative
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
theological
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- academic study
- faith discussions
- creative problem solving
Key Concepts
divine likeness
subjective reality
theology
Questions to Reflect On
- How does our perception influence what we consider objective truth?
- In what ways does creativity reflect a divine image?
A Different Perspective
It may overstate human capacity and ignore limits of knowledge.
