When the words come, they are merely empty shells without the music. They live as they are sung, for the words are the body and the music the spirit.
O, You who are ever giving life to all life, moving all creatures, root of all things, washing them clean, wiping out their mistakes, healing their wounds, You are our true life, luminous, wonderful, awakening the heart from its ancient sleep.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the divine presence that nurtures and rejuvenates all forms of life, calling us to awaken to this reality.
Hildegard of Bingen's quote reflects on the universal life force that sustains every being, portraying a source of healing and renewal. It suggests that this divine essence not only cleanses past mistakes but also serves as a source of enlightenment and awakening, inviting us to engage more fully with our existence. The imagery of awakening from 'ancient sleep' symbolizes a profound transformation—encouraging individuals to recognize and embrace the sacred in their lives.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech advocating for environmental responsibility, one might invoke this quote to highlight the life-giving force of nature.
More from Hildegard Of Bingen
All quotes →Every creature is a glittering, glistening mirror of Divinity.
The fire has its flame and praises God._x000D_ _x000D_ The wind blows the flame and praises God._x000D_ _x000D_ In the voice we hear the word which praises God._x000D_ _x000D_ And the word, when heard, praises God._x000D_ _x000D_ So all of creation is a song of praise to God.
There is the music of Heaven in all things.
I welcome all creatures of the world with grace.
Don't let yourself forget that God's grace rewards not only those who never slip, but also those who bend and fall. So sing! The song of rejoicing softens hard hearts. It makes tears of godly sorrow flow from them. Singing summons the Holy Spirit. Happy praises offered in simplicity and love lead the faithful to complete harmony, without discord. Don't stop singing.
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Fear of ideas makes us impotent and ineffective.