It is not we who seek the Way, but the Way which seeks us. That is why you are faithful to it, even while you stand waiting, so long as you are prepared, and act the moment you are confronted by its demands.
Dag HammarskjoldRead
Your cravings as a human animal do not become a prayer just because it is God whom you ask to attend to them.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that simply asking God for our desires does not elevate them to a higher purpose or significance.
Dag Hammarskjold's quote prompts us to reflect on the nature of our desires and the intentions behind our prayers. It emphasizes that just because we seek fulfillment of our human cravings from a divine source, it does not transform those cravings into something sanctified or worthy of prayer; instead, it challenges us to consider the true value and purpose behind our requests.
Themes
CravingsPrayerHuman NatureDesireReflection
In practice
Example use cases
During a meditation session, to emphasize the importance of mindful intention over superficial wishes.
More from Dag Hammarskjold
All quotes →Do not seek death. Death will find you. But seek the road which makes death a fulfillment.
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The world cannot live at peace without the United Nations. For this reason: it creates a reasonable guarantee that all this change in the world, these tremendous political and economic developments, can be channelized, kept orderly. The United Nations is a mold that keeps the hot metal from spilling over.
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In a dream I walked with God through the deep places of creation; past walls that receded and gates that opened through hall after hall of silence, darkness and refreshment--the dwelling place of souls acquainted with light and warmth--until, around me, was an infinity into which we all flowed together and lived anew, like the rings made by raindrops falling upon wide expanses of calm dark waters.
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He is one of those who has had the wilderness for a pillow, and called a star his brother. Alone. But loneliness can be a communion.
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Never measure the height of a mountain until you have reached the top. Then you will see how low it was.
Dag HammarskjoldRead
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