Enemies Quote by Saint Augustine
“That your enemies have been created is God's doing; that they hate you and wish to ruin you is their own doing. What should you say about them in your mind? "Lord be merciful to them, forgive them their sins, put the fear of God in them, change them!" You are loving in them not what they are, but what you would have them to become.”
About This Quote
Source Sermon: Homily on Enemies, 5th century AD
Recognizes that the existence of enemies is divine, but their hatred is self‑generated, urging compassionate prayer for their transformation.
In simple terms: Enemies exist by God, hatred is theirs; pray for their change.
Key Takeaway
Pray for enemies’ redemption.
Themes
compassion
spirituality
conflict resolution
Mood
reflective
hopeful
Type
spiritual
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal meditation
- interpersonal conflict
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
theology
free will
redemption
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you genuinely wish change for those who harm you?
- What does forgiveness do for your own peace?
A Different Perspective
May personal bias hinder sincere prayer for change.
