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I too died. But in the depth of my oblivion I heard Him speak and say, 'Father forgive them, for they know not what they do.' And His voice sought my drowned spirit and I was brought back to the shore. And I opened my eyes and I saw His white body hanging against the cloud, and His words that I had heard took the shape within me and became a new man. And I sorrowed no more. Who would sorrow for a sea that is unveiling its face, or for a mountain that laughs in the sun? Was it ever in the heart of man, when that heart was pierced, to say such words? What other judge of men has released His judges? And did ever love challenge hate with power more certain of itself? Was ever such a trumpet heard 'twixt heaven and earth? Was it known before that the murdered had compassion on his murderers? Or that the meteor stayed his footsteps for the mole? The seasons shall tire and the years grow old, ere they exhaust these words: 'Father forgive them, for they know not what they do.'

Khalil Gibran#35

SpiritualitySufferingForgivenessCompassion

About this quote

What does it mean?
Experiencing deep loss can lead to spiritual renewal through compassion and forgiveness.
In plain terms
Suffering can bring spiritual rebirth.
What can you take from it?
Forgiveness brings new life.

Where it applies

  • grief
  • spiritual crisis

Putting it to work

  • practice forgiveness

Questions to consider

  • How do you find hope after loss?
  • What does forgiveness mean to you?

Another view

The imagery is highly specific to Christian theology.

More from Khalil Gibran

  1. I would tell you more of Him, but how shall I? When love becomes vast love becomes wordless. And when memory is overladen it seeks the silent deep.

    Permalink to quote #34
  2. In a dream I saw Jesus and My God Pan sitting together in the heart of the forest. They laughed at each other's speech, with the brook that ran near them, and …

    Permalink to quote #36
  3. Love is a gracious host to his guests though to the unbidden his house is a mirage and a mockery. Now you would have me explain the miracles of Jesus. We are a…

    Permalink to quote #33

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