Care Quote by Mishka
“Searching for a better description of this rotting sadness, I came upon the concept of acedia. In Christian theology, it’s an antecedent to sloth, the least sexy of the seven deadly sins. Thomas Aquinas winnowed it down for me: acedia is sorrow so complete that the flesh prevails completely over the spirit. You don’t just turn your back on the world, you turn your back on God. You don’t care, and you don’t care that you don’t care.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Personal reflection on acedia (unknown source)
The author describes acedia as a profound, soul‑depleting sorrow that overwhelms the spirit, aligning with Christian theology’s view of it as a precursor to sloth.
In simple terms: Acedia is deep sorrow that overwhelms the spirit.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and address deep spiritual fatigue.
Themes
spirituality
despair
theology
psychology
sin
Mood
somber
introspective
Type
philosophical
religious
When to use this quote
- Counseling sessions
- spiritual retreats
- creative expression
- journaling
Key Concepts
acedia
sloth
existential fatigue
Questions to Reflect On
- What signs indicate acedia versus ordinary fatigue?
- How can one revive the spirit after such sorrow?
A Different Perspective
Acedia may be mischaracterized as mere laziness, overlooking its depth.
![“Saint Thomas Aquinas says, wisely, that the only way to drive out a bad passion is by a stronger good passion. The same is true of thoughts as of passions. When your mind wanders, like a child, your will must bring it back, like a mother. [. . .] The will-parent must discipline the mind-child…” quote by Peter Kreeft](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/726/peter-kreeft-820_discipline_saint-thomas-aquinas-says-wisely-that-th_537121.jpg)
