Astronomy Quote by Peter Matthiessen
““In the book of Job, the Lord demands, “Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth?” “I was there!”-surely that is the answer to God’s question. For no matter how the universe came into being, most of the atoms in these fleeting assemblies that we think of as our bodies have been in existence since the beginning. Each breath we take contains hundreds of thousands of the inert, pervasive argon atoms that were actually breathed in his lifetime by the Buddha, and indeed contain parts of all the ‘snorts, sighs, bellows, shrieks” of all creatures that ever existed or will exist. These atoms flow backward and forward in such useful but artificial constructs as time and space, in the same universal rhythms, universal breath as the tides and stars, joining both the living and the dead in that energy which animates the universe.””
About This Quote
Source Book: “The Snow Leopard” by Peter Matthiessen, 1978
Our bodies are composed of ancient atoms that have existed since the universe’s formation, linking us to all past and future life.
In simple terms: We share ancient atoms with everything in the cosmos.
Key Takeaway
Recognize our deep connection to all life.
Themes
interconnectedness
cosmic perspective
impermanence
Mood
wonderful
humble
reflective
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- meditation
- environmental awareness
- science education
- philosophical reflection
Key Concepts
atomology
cosmology
spirituality
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this view affect your sense of responsibility?
- What emotions arise when you feel part of a larger whole?
A Different Perspective
Atoms are not conscious agents; the metaphor may overstate agency.
