What each man honours before all else, what before all things he admires and loves, this for him is God.
OrigenRead
Then, in the next place, we must know that every being which is endowed with reason, and transgresses its statutes and limitations, is undoubtedly involved in sin by swerving from rectitude and justice.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes that reason is essential for understanding moral laws, and deviating from them constitutes sin.
Origen's quote reflects the philosophical idea that rational beings have an innate awareness of right and wrong, and when they choose to act against these moral laws, they are committing a sin. This perspective underscores the responsibility that comes with reason, suggesting that the ability to reason implies an obligation to adhere to justice and morality.
Themes
ReasonSinMoralityJusticeRectitude
In practice
Example use cases
During a lecture on ethics, this quote can be used to illustrate the importance of moral responsibility.
More from Origen
All quotes →What good does it do me if Christ was born in Bethlehem once if he is not born again in my heart through faith?
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