I have said this to explain the stanza that follows, in which the soul replies to those who call in question its holy tranquillity, who will have it wholly occupied with outward duties, that its light may shine before the world: these persons have no conception of the fibres and the unseen root whence the sap is drawn, and which nourish the fruit.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Outward busybodies misunderstand the deep inner spiritual roots that nourish true fruit.
- In plain terms
- Critics don't see the hidden roots that feed growth.
- What can you take from it?
- Inner spiritual life is often unseen but vital.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What are your hidden roots?
- How do you handle criticism?
Another view
Uses metaphor that may be vague to some.
More from John of the Cross
When the soul, then, in any degree possesses the spirit of solitary love, we must not interfere with it. We should inflict a grievous wrong upon it, and upon t…
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Permalink to quote #30 If the soul has not reached the state of unitive love, it is necessary for it to make acts of love, as well in the active as in the contemplative life. But whe…
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