Indeed, theological discourse offers its strange jubilation only to the strict extent that it permits and, dangerously, demands of it wokman that he speak beyond his means, precisely because he does not speak of himself. Hence the danger of a speech that, in a sense, speaks against the one who lends himself to it. One must obtain forgiveness for every essay in theology. In all senses.
Interpretation
The quote reflects on the challenges and responsibilities of discussing theology, emphasizing the need for humility and self-awareness.
Jean-Luc Marion's quote delves into the complexities of theological discourse, suggesting that engaging in such discussions requires a deep understanding and awareness of oneself. It highlights the inherent risks of speaking on behalf of a greater truth while acknowledging one's limitations, implying that true theological exploration necessitates both humility and the pursuit of forgiveness for any inadequacies expressed in such profound topics.
In practice
In a seminar discussing the complexities of faith, one might quote Marion to prompt a conversation on the limits of our understanding.
Who gave you the ability to contemplate the beauty of the skies, the course of the sun, the round moon, the millions of stars, the harmony and rhythm that issue from the world as from a lyre, the return of the seasons, the alternation of the months, the demarcation of day and night, the fruits of the earth, the vastness of the air, the ceaseless motion of the waves, the sound of the wind?
Man indeed is the most noble, by creation, of all the creatures in the visible World; but by sin he has made himself the most ignoble.
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow: In Flanders fields.
We live in an almost perfect stillness and work with incredible urgency.
Every bird which flies has the thread of the infinite in its claw. Germination includes the hatching of a meteor and the tap of a swallow's bill breaking the egg, and it leads forward the birth of an earth-worm and the advent of Socrates.
I act as the tongue of you, ... tied in your mouth . . . . in mine it begins to be loosened.
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