... where Solomon says that 'Wisdom has built herself a house' (Prov. 9:1), he refers darkly in these words to the preparation of the flesh of the Lord: for the true Wisdom did not dwell in another's building, but built for Itself that dwelling-place from the body of the Virgin.
Interpretation
This quote suggests that true wisdom is inherent and self-sufficient, embodying itself in the flesh of the Lord.
Gregory of Nyssa reflects on the biblical passage about wisdom, indicating that true wisdom isn't just found elsewhere but constructs its own presence through the Lord's embodiment in the Virgin's flesh. This interpretation emphasizes the intimate relationship between divine wisdom and the physical world, suggesting that wisdom manifests itself in concrete, personal ways rather than existing solely in abstract thought.
In practice
In a sermon about the nature of wisdom and understanding.
Now there have been delivered to us in the Gospel three Persons and names through whom the generation or birth of believers takes place, and he who is begotten by this Trinity is equally begotten of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost —for thus does the Gospel speak of the Spirit, that “that which is born of Spirit is spirit,” and it is “in Christ “that Paul begets, and the Father is the “Father of all”.
If we truly think of Christ as our source of holiness, we shall refrain from anything wicked or impure in thought or act and thus show ourselves to be worthy bearers of his name. For the quality of holiness is shown not by what we say but by what we do in life.
Peace is defined as harmony among those who are divided. When, therefore, we end the civil war within our nature and cultivate peace within ourselves, we become at peace.
May we never risk the life of our souls by being resentful or by bearing grudges.
Just as at sea those who are carried away from the direction of the harbor bring themselves back on course by a clear sign, on seeing a tall beacon light or some mountain peak coming into view, so Scripture may guide those adrift on the sea of the life back into the harbor of the divine will.
Concepts create idols; only wonder comprehends anything. People kill one another over idols. Wonder makes us fall to our knees.
Whenever you find yourself on the side of the majority, it is time to pause and reflect.
Every person takes the limits of their own field of vision for the limits of the world.
I keep six honest serving men.
Take life easily, lovingly, playfully, non-seriously. Seriousness is a disease, the greatest disease of the soul and playfulness the greatest health.
To strive with difficulties, and to conquer them, is the highest human felicity.
The most effortful forms of slow thinking are those that require you to think fast.
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