Skip to content

Contemplation Quote by Thomas Merton

“Either you look at the universe as a very poor creation out of which no one can make anything, or you look at your own life and your own part in the universe as infinitely rich, full of inexhaustible interest, opening out into the infinite further responsibilities for study and contemplation and…” quote by Thomas Merton
Download Open image
“Either you look at the universe as a very poor creation out of which no one can make anything, or you look at your own life and your own part in the universe as infinitely rich, full of inexhaustible interest, opening out into the infinite further responsibilities for study and contemplation and interest and praise. Beyond all and in all is God.”

Thomas Merton

About This Quote

Source Book: The Seven Storey Mountain, 1948

The passage contrasts seeing the universe as empty versus seeing one’s life as richly connected to infinite responsibilities and divine presence.

In simple terms: Life is richly connected to the divine.

Key Takeaway

Recognize life’s infinite depth.

Themes

spirituality philosophy purpose

Mood

contemplative reverent

Type

philosophical spiritual

When to use this quote

  • meditation
  • academic study
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

existentialism theology responsibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you view your role in the universe?
  • What responsibilities arise from seeing life as rich?
A Different Perspective

Complex language may be inaccessible to some.

5.0 out of 5 (3 ratings)

More by Thomas Merton

Explore all 851 Thomas Merton quotes

More Contemplation quotes

Browse all 960 Contemplation quotes