Abraham Quote by Martin Buber
“The biblical passage which says of Abraham and the three visiting angels: "And He stood over them under the tree and they did eat" is interpreted by Rabbi Zusya to the effect that man stands above the angels, because he knows something unknown to them, namely, that eating may be hallowed by the eater's intention… Any natural act, if hallowed, leads to God, and nature needs man for what no angel can perform on it, namely, its hallowing.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Tales of the Hasidim, 1925
Human agency sanctifies natural acts, granting divine significance beyond angelic capability.
In simple terms: Man can give holy meaning to ordinary actions.
Recognize your power to sanctify everyday life.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal prayer
- ethical decisions
- environmental stewardship
- creative work
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does intention transform ordinary actions?
- Can humans truly surpass angels in spiritual impact?
Human sanctification may be limited by lack of awareness of divine intent.