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Bible Quote by Saint Augustine of Hippo

“The wisdom of what a person says is in direct proportion to his progress in learning the holy scriptures--and I am not speaking of intensive reading or memorization, but real understanding and careful investigation of their meaning. Some people read them but neglect them; by their reading they…” quote by Saint Augustine of Hippo
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““The wisdom of what a person says is in direct proportion to his progress in learning the holy scriptures--and I am not speaking of intensive reading or memorization, but real understanding and careful investigation of their meaning. Some people read them but neglect them; by their reading they profit in knowledge, by their neglect they forfeit understanding.””

Saint Augustine of Hippo

About This Quote

Source Book: Confessions, Saint Augustine, 397 AD

Understanding scripture requires deep study, not just reading; superficial knowledge yields facts but not wisdom.

In simple terms: True insight comes from careful study, not mere reading.

Key Takeaway

Engage in thoughtful, investigative reading of sacred texts.

Themes

wisdom study interpretation

Mood

contemplative serious

Type

theological educational

When to use this quote

  • personal study
  • group discussion
  • scholarly research

Key Concepts

theology education

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you verify true understanding?
  • What practices deepen scriptural insight?
A Different Perspective

Reading alone may give false confidence without comprehension.

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