Creator Quote by Saint Basil
“Now, if you notice how the swan, putting its neck down into the deep water, brings up food for itself from below, then you will discover the wisdom of the Creator, in that He gave it a neck longer than its feet for this reason, that it might, as if lowering a sort of fishing line, procure the food hidden in the deep water.”
About This Quote
Source Homily: “On the Creation” by Saint Basil the Great, 4th century
Uses the swan’s long neck as a metaphor for divine design, showing that unique features enable access to hidden nourishment.
In simple terms: God gives special gifts to reach what’s unseen.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and use your unique abilities.
Themes
creation
wisdom
divine design
Mood
reverent
inspired
thoughtful
Type
spiritual
philosophical
When to use this quote
- problem solving
- spiritual reflection
- creative pursuits
Key Concepts
metaphor
spiritual insight
natural adaptation
Questions to Reflect On
- How do your talents help you uncover hidden opportunities?
- What gifts do you need to develop further?
A Different Perspective
May overlook practical limits of metaphor.
![“[Every disappointment or misfortune can become a blessing in disguise, for which we should be grateful. But only if the hidden blessing is anticipated, expected and searched for will it be found and recognised as such and the most made of it. For example...] Many a man curses the rain that falls…” quote by Saint Basil](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/f73/saint-basil-4281_abundance_every-disappointment-or-misfortune-can-b_143853.jpg)
![“John [Coltrane] was like a visitor to this planet. He came in peace and he left in peace; but during his time here, he kept trying to reach new levels of awareness, of peace, of spirituality. That's why I regard the music he played as spiritual music -- John's way of getting closer and closer to…” quote by Albert Ayler](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/0ad/albert-ayler-43036_awareness_john-coltrane-was-like-a-visitor-to-this_12716.jpg)