Atheist Quote by Maurice Blanchot
“We can never put enough distance between ourselves and what we love. To think that God is, is still to think of him as present; this is a thought according to our measure, destined only to console us. It is much more fitting to think that God is not, just as we must love him purely enough that we could be indifferent to the fact that he should not be. It is for this reason that the atheist is closer to God than the believer.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Infinite Conversation, Maurice Blanchot, 1995
The quote suggests that true love requires detachment, and that atheism may be nearer to God than belief because it avoids anthropomorphic expectations.
In simple terms: Love needs distance; atheism may be closer to God than belief.
Key Takeaway
Embrace love without clinging to personal images of God.
Themes
love
philosophy
theology
detachment
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
theological
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- spiritual contemplation
- philosophical debate
- religious discourse
Key Concepts
existentialism
anthropomorphism
atheism
Questions to Reflect On
- How can one love fully while maintaining healthy distance?
- Does detachment diminish or deepen love?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook the comfort and community belief can provide.
