I saw within Its depth how It conceives_x000D_ _x000D_ All things in a single volume bound by Love_x000D_ _x000D_ of which the universe is the scattered leaves.
Dante AlighieriRead
The three Divine are in this hierarchy, First the Dominions, and the Virtues next;_x000D_ _x000D_ And the third order is that of the Powers. The in the dances twain penultimate_x000D_ _x000D_ The Principalities and Archangels wheel; The last is wholly of angelic sports._x000D_ _x000D_ These orders upward all of them are gazing,_x000D_ _x000D_ And downward so prevail, that unto God_x000D_ _x000D_ They all attracted are and all attract.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote describes the hierarchical order of celestial beings and their relationship with God.
In this passage by Dante Alighieri, the poet presents a structured view of the celestial hierarchy, detailing different orders of angels and their roles in the divine realm. Each level, from the Dominions to the Archangels, is depicted as part of a grand cosmic order where all beings are both drawn to God and serve to attract others towards the divine, illustrating a continuous cycle of admiration and worship towards the ultimate source of existence.
Themes
CelestialHierarchyAngelsDivineGodDante
In practice
Example use cases
In a sermon discussing the nature of divine beings, this quote can enhance understanding of the hierarchy in religious texts.
More from Dante Alighieri
All quotes →Before me things created were none, save things Eternal, and eternal I endure. All hope abandon, ye who enter here.
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The customs and fashions of men change like leaves on the bough, some of which go and others come.
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Heaven wheels above you, displaying to you her eternal glories, and still your eyes are on the ground.
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Pride, envy, avarice - these are the sparks have set on fire the hearts of all men.
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Thus you may understand that love alone is the true seed of every merit in you, and of all acts for which you must atone.
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