Indeed, theological discourse offers its strange jubilation only to the strict extent that it permits and, dangerously, demands of it wokman that he speak beyond his means, precisely because he does not speak of himself. Hence the danger of a speech that, in a sense, speaks against the one who lends himself to it. One must obtain forgiveness for every essay in theology. In all senses.
Interpretation
The quote reflects on the challenges and responsibilities of discussing theology, emphasizing the need for humility and self-awareness.
Jean-Luc Marion's quote delves into the complexities of theological discourse, suggesting that engaging in such discussions requires a deep understanding and awareness of oneself. It highlights the inherent risks of speaking on behalf of a greater truth while acknowledging one's limitations, implying that true theological exploration necessitates both humility and the pursuit of forgiveness for any inadequacies expressed in such profound topics.
In practice
In a seminar discussing the complexities of faith, one might quote Marion to prompt a conversation on the limits of our understanding.
An individual in despair despairs over something. . . . In despairing over something, he really despair[s] over himself, and now he wants to get rid of himself. Consequently, to despair over something is still not despair proper. . . . To despair over oneself, in despair to will to be rid of oneself-this is the formula for all despair.
We humans do not understand compassion. In each moment of our lives, we betray it. Aye, we know of its worth, yet in knowing we then attach to it a value, we guard the giving of it, believing it must be earned, T’lan Imass. Compassion is priceless in the truest sense of the wold. It must be given freely. In abundance.
A nation without means of reform is without means of survival.
Everything lives by movement, everything is maintained by equilibrium, and harmony results from the analogy of contraries; this law is the form of forms.
What is truth? A difficult question; but I have solved it for myself by saying that it is what the 'voice within' tells you.
I now wish that I had spent somewhat more of my life with verse. This is not because I fear having missed out on truths that are incapable of statement in prose. There are no such truths; there is nothing about death that Swinburne and Landor knew but Epicurus and Heidegger failed to grasp. Rather, it is because I would have lived more fully if I had been able to rattle off more old chestnuts — just as I would have if I had made more close friends.
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