But O the exceeding grace_x000D_ Of highest God, that loves his creatures so,_x000D_ And all his works with mercy doth embrace,_x000D_ That blessed angels, he sends to and fro,_x000D_ To serve to wicked man, to serve his wicked foe.
For of the soule the bodie forme doth take; _x000D_ For the soule is forme, and doth the bodie make.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that the soul shapes and defines the body, emphasizing the connection between one's spiritual essence and physical being.
Edmund Spenser's quote highlights the intimate relationship between the soul and the body, positing that the nature of a person's spirit directly influences their physical form. This reflects a philosophical view that our inner self is not only distinct but also plays a foundational role in our external expressions, suggesting that understanding the soul is essential to understanding oneself holistically.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about spirituality and identity, one might say this quote to illustrate how inner qualities manifest outwardly.
More from Edmund Spenser
All quotes βThe noblest mind the best contentment has
What though the sea with waves continuall Doe eate the earth, it is no more at all ; Ne is the earth the lesse, or loseth ought : For whatsoever from one place doth fall Is with the tyde unto another brought : For there is nothing lost, that may be found if sought.
No daintie flowre or herbe that growes on grownd, No arborett with painted blossoms drest And smelling sweete, but there it might be fownd To bud out faire, and throwe her sweete smels al arownd.
I hate the day, because it lendeth light_x000D_ _x000D_ To see all things, but not my love to see.
I was promised on a time - to have reason for my rhyme; From that time unto this season, I received nor rhyme nor reason.
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