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About this quote

What does it mean?
Human inquiry cannot fully grasp the divine or the true self, which remains serene and beyond complete understanding.
In plain terms
People ask many questions but the true essence remains calm and unknowable.
What can you take from it?
Accept that some truths exceed human explanation.

Where it applies

  • spiritual contemplation
  • philosophical debate
  • personal reflection

Putting it to work

  • meditation practice
  • reducing overanalysis
  • appreciating silence

Questions to consider

  • What remains beyond your understanding?
  • How do you respond to silence?

Another view

It may discourage active seeking of knowledge.

More from Matthew Arnold

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