Add Quote by Sadhu Sundar Singh
“Water and petrol both come from the earth, and though they seem to be alike and even the same, they are in nature and purpose exact opposites, for the one extinguishes fire and the other adds fuel to it. So also the world and its treasures, the heart and its thirst for God are alike His creation. Now the result of the attempt to satisfy the heart with the wealth and pride and honours of this world is the same as if one tried to put out a fire with petrol, for the heart can only find ease and satisfaction in Him who created both it and the longing desire of which it is conscious.”
About This Quote
The analogy contrasts earthly wealth with spiritual fulfillment, arguing that seeking material gain to satisfy the soul is as futile as trying to extinguish fire with gasoline.
In simple terms: Material pursuits cannot satisfy spiritual longing.
Key Takeaway
True peace comes from aligning with the divine, not worldly riches.
Themes
spirituality
materialism
faith
purpose
inner peace
contradiction
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
allegory
spiritual teaching
When to use this quote
- sermons
- personal meditation
- ethical teaching
Key Concepts
theology
human desire
Practical Applications
- spiritual counseling
- religious education
Questions to Reflect On
- What does this say about consumer culture?
- How can one balance worldly duties with spiritual aims?
![“Those of fire move about the earth with inspiration and purpose. They are creative, and can consume and be consumed by their desires [...] My father-to-be was of the water and could not find a hold in the banks of earthiness. Water people can easily get lost.” quote by Joy Harjo](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ed2/joy-harjo-14629_essence_those-of-fire-move-about-the-earth-with_3034913.jpg)
