To bear with patience wrongs done to oneself is a mark of perfection, but to bear with patience wrongs done to someone else is a mark of imperfection and even of actual sin.
Thomas AquinasRead
Beware of the person of one book.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote warns against individuals who rely solely on a single source of knowledge or perspective.
Thomas Aquinas' quote emphasizes the danger of having a narrow worldview that comes from relying on only one book or source of information. It suggests that such individuals may lack a broader understanding and critical thinking skills, which are essential for wisdom and informed decision-making. True wisdom often requires a diverse range of knowledge and the ability to consider different viewpoints.
Themes
KnowledgeWisdomEducationPerspectiveCritical Thinking
In practice
Example use cases
In a book club discussion about diverse viewpoints, this quote could remind members to consider a variety of sources.
More from Thomas Aquinas
All quotes →Law is nothing other than a certain ordinance of reason for the common good, promulgated by the person who has the care of the community.
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Now this relaxation of the mind from work consists on playful words or deeds. Therefore it becomes a wise and virtuous man to have recourse to such things at times.
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A song is the exultation of the mind dwelling on eternal things, bursting forth in the voice.
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We are like children, who stand in need of masters to enlighten us and direct us; God has provided for this, by appointing his angels to be our teachers and guides.
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To one who has faith, no explanation is necessary. To one without faith, no explanation is possible.
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