It seemed to be a necessary ritual that he should prepare himself for sleep by meditating under the solemnity of the night sky... a mysterious transaction between the infinity of the soul and the infinity of the universe.
Victor HugoRead
The first proof of charity in a priest, and especially a bishop, is poverty.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True charity in a leader is demonstrated through selflessness and humility.
Victor Hugo emphasizes that a priest, particularly a bishop, should embody poverty as a testament to their charity. This notion reflects the idea that true leadership in spiritual matters requires self-denial and a focus on serving others rather than seeking personal wealth or power. By prioritizing poverty, a religious leader showcases their commitment to the values of compassion and humility, essential traits in fostering genuine charitable actions.
Themes
CharityPovertyLeadershipHumilityService
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech on community service, one might quote Hugo to emphasize the need for selflessness in leadership.
More from Victor Hugo
All quotes βWhen two mouths, made sacred by love, draw near to each other to create, it is impossible, that above that ineffable kiss there should not be a thrill in the immense mystery of the stars.
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At that moment of love, a moment when passion is absolutely silent under omnipotence of ecstasy, Marius, pure seraphic Marius, would have been more capable of visiting a woman of the streets than of raising Cosetteβs dress above the ankle. Once on a moonlit night, Cosette stopped to pick up something from the ground, her dress loosened and revealed the swelling of her breasts. Marius averted his eyes.
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Thought is the work of the intellect, reverie is its self-indulgence. To substitute day-dreaming for thought is to confuse a poison with a source of nourishment.
Victor HugoRead
Taste is the common sense of genius.
Victor HugoRead
Forget not, never forget that you have promised me to use this silver to become an honest man.... Jean Valjean, my brother: you belong no longer to evil, but to good. It is your soul that I am buying for you. I withdraw it from dark thoughts and from the spirit of perdition, and I give it to God!
Victor HugoRead
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