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Atheism Quote by Martin Buber

“Here is the infallible test. Imagine yourself in a situation where you are alone, wholly alone on earth, and you are offered one of the two, books or men. I often hear men prizing their solitude but that is only because there are still men somewhere on earth even though in the far distance. I knew…” quote by Martin Buber
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“Here is the infallible test. Imagine yourself in a situation where you are alone, wholly alone on earth, and you are offered one of the two, books or men. I often hear men prizing their solitude but that is only because there are still men somewhere on earth even though in the far distance. I knew nothing of books when I came forth from the womb of my mother, and I shall die without books, with another human hand in my own. I do, indeed, close my door at times and surrender myself to a book, but only because I can open the door again and see a human being looking at me.”

Martin Buber

About This Quote

It emphasizes the irreplaceable value of books and human connection, suggesting solitude is incomplete without both.

In simple terms: Books and people are essential.

Key Takeaway

Seek both reading and companionship.

Themes

knowledge human connection solitude literature

Mood

contemplative thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal growth
  • education
  • loneliness
  • reading habits

Key Concepts

existential reflection value of art

Questions to Reflect On

  • What role do books play in your life?
  • How do you balance reading with human interaction?
A Different Perspective

Books alone cannot fulfill social needs.

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