The angels surround and help the priest when he is celebrating Mass.
Saint AugustineRead
Man's maker was made man that He, Ruler of the stars, might nurse at His mother's breast; that the Bread might hunger, the Fountain thirst, the Light sleep, the Way be tired on its journey; that Truth might be accused of false witnesses, the Teacher be beaten with whips, the Foundation be suspended on wood; that Strength might grow weak; that the Healer might be wounded; that Life might die.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects on the paradoxical nature of divinity and humanity, illustrating how the creator becomes part of creation and experiences human suffering.
Saint Augustine's quote delves into the profound mysteries of the Christian faith, emphasizing the humility and vulnerability of God, who chose to become human and experience the struggles of life. It highlights the contradictions inherent in the divine: the omnipotent one choosing to endure hunger, thirst, and suffering, ultimately culminating in death. This encapsulation of suffering reveals a deep understanding of human experience and divine love, suggesting that through these hardships, a greater purpose is served and a connection between humanity and divinity is forged.
Themes
DivinityHumanitySufferingParadoxSacrificeFaith
In practice
Example use cases
During a sermon to illustrate the humility of Christ in the face of suffering.
More from Saint Augustine
All quotes →There is no health in those who are displeased by an element in Your creation, just as there was none in me when I was displeased by many things You had made. Because my soul didn't dare to say that my God displeased me, it refused to attribute to You whatever was displeasing.
Saint AugustineRead
Bad times, hard times, this is what people keep saying; but let us live well, and times shall be good. We are the times: Such as we are, such are the times.
Saint AugustineRead
Who can map out the various forces at play in one soul? Man is a great depth, O Lord. The hairs of his head are easier by far to count than his feeling, the movements of his heart.
Saint AugustineRead
Whatever skills I have acquired, whatever gifts I have been given, I place them at Your service.
Saint AugustineRead
Everyone who observes himself doubting observes a truth, and about that which he observes he is certain; therefore he is certain about a truth. Everyone therefore who doubts whether truth exists has in himself a truth on which not to doubt.... Hence one who can doubt at all ought not to doubt the existence of truth.
Saint AugustineRead
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