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All things Quote by Saint Augustine

“Temperance is love surrendering itself wholly to Him who is its object; courage is love bearing all things gladly for the sake of Him who is its object; justice is love serving only Him who is its object, and therefore rightly ruling; prudence is love making wise distinction between what hinders…” quote by Saint Augustine
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“Temperance is love surrendering itself wholly to Him who is its object; courage is love bearing all things gladly for the sake of Him who is its object; justice is love serving only Him who is its object, and therefore rightly ruling; prudence is love making wise distinction between what hinders and what helps itself.”

Saint Augustine

About This Quote

Source Treat: Confessions, Book 4, 397 AD

Temperance, courage, justice, prudence are described as loves directed toward God, each expressing a distinct virtue in service to the divine.

In simple terms: Virtues are love focused on God, each with a specific role.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate each virtue by aligning actions with divine purpose.

Themes

virtue theology ethics

Mood

reflective inspirational

Type

philosophical spiritual

When to use this quote

  • personal spiritual practice
  • leadership decisions
  • ethical dilemmas
  • community service

Key Concepts

Augustine Christian doctrine cardinal virtues

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you embody each virtue in daily choices?
  • Which virtue feels most difficult for you?
A Different Perspective

Balancing all four virtues can be challenging in complex modern life.

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