What St. Francis and St. Dominic have done, that, by God's grace, I will do.
Saint IgnatiusRead
If I cannot add to my own low level of understanding, I could ill afford to try to raise that of others, seeing that it belongs to our Creator and Lord to give much or little.
Interpretation
What this quote means
One should recognize their own limitations in understanding before attempting to enlighten others.
This quote from Saint Ignatius emphasizes the importance of humility in knowledge and understanding. It suggests that if one is aware of their own limited comprehension, they should refrain from attempting to elevate the understanding of others, as true enlightenment is a gift from a higher power. The acknowledgment of one's own intellectual boundaries fosters a sense of respect for both one's own journey and the divine nature of knowledge.
Themes
UnderstandingHumilityWisdomKnowledgeFaith
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about teaching methodologies at a conference, one could use this quote to emphasize the importance of recognizing one's own knowledge limits.
More from Saint Ignatius
All quotes →Remember that the good angels do what they can to preserve men from sin and obtain God's honor. But they do not lose courage when men fail.
Saint IgnatiusRead
In the matter of learning, the difference between the earnest and the careless student stands out clearly. The same holds true in the mastering of passion and the weaknesses to which our nature is subject, as in the acquiring of virtue.
Saint IgnatiusRead
It is proper to ask for sorrow with Christ in sorrow, anguish with Christ in anguish, tears and deep grief because of the great affliction Christ endures for me.
Saint IgnatiusRead
Be slow to speak, and only after having first listened quietly, so that you may understand the meaning, leanings, and wishes of those who do speak. Thus you will better know when to speak and when to be silent.
Saint IgnatiusRead
It is a great delusion in those whose understanding has been darkened by self-love, to think that there is any obedience in the subject who tries to draw the superior to what he wishes.
Saint IgnatiusRead
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