This is the great work of a man: always to take the blame for his own sins before God, and toexpect temptation to his last breath.
Anthony The GreatRead
When Abba Anthony thought about the depths of the judgments of God, he asked, 'Lord, how is it that some die when they are young, while others drag on to extreme old age? Why are there those who are poor and those who are rich? Why do wicked men prosper and why are the just in need?' He heard a voice answering him, 'Antony, keep your attention on yourself; these things are according to the judgment of God, and it is not to your advantage to know anything about them.'
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects on the mystery of divine judgment and the inequalities of life.
In this profound quote by Abba Anthony, he contemplates the nature of God's judgments as they pertain to life and death, prosperity and struggle. His inquiry highlights the perplexing inequalities that exist within human experience—why some experience early death while others live long lives, why wealth is unevenly distributed, and why the wicked may thrive while the righteous suffer. The voice answering him suggests that one should focus on their own life and character rather than seek to understand the divine plans that govern these disparities, implying that humility and self-reflection are more valuable than attempting to comprehend the complexities of God’s will.
Themes
JudgmentPhilosophyInequalitySelf-ReflectionFaith
In practice
Example use cases
During a sermon on life and death, this quote could illustrate the need for humility in understanding divine mysteries.
More from Anthony The Great
All quotes →Our life and our death is with our neighbor. If we gain our brother, we have gained God, but if we scandalize our brother, we have sinned against Christ.
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The fruits of the earth are not brought to perfection immediately, but by time, rain and care; similarly, the fruits of men ripen through ascetic practice, study, time, perseverance, self-control and patience.
Anthony The GreatRead
Regard as free not those whose status makes them outwardly free, but those who are free in their character and conduct. For we should not call men truly free when they are wicked and dissolute, since they are slaves to worldly passions. Freedom and happiness of soul consist in genuine purity and detachment from transitory things.
Anthony The GreatRead
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