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Then shall it come to pass the saying that is written,' a voice said. 'Death is swallowed up. In victory.' Perhaps only Fred heard it. 'Because,' the voice said, 'as soon as the writing appears backward, then you know which is illusion and which is not. The confusion ends, and death, the last enemy, Substance Death, is swallowed not into the body but up - in victory. Behold, I tell you the sacred secret now: we shall not all sleep in death.

Philip Kindred Dick#45

TruthDeathIllusionSpirituality

About this quote

What does it mean?
A voice claims death is defeated in victory when illusion is revealed, offering a secret promise of life beyond sleep.
In plain terms
When illusion ends, death is overcome and we do not just sleep.
What can you take from it?
Seeing truth can transform fear of death.

Where it applies

  • spiritual practice
  • funeral rites
  • philosophical debate

Putting it to work

  • seek clarity
  • face mortality
  • explore spiritual views

Questions to consider

  • How do you distinguish illusion from truth?
  • What does victory over death mean to you?

Another view

It relies on religious faith, which may not be universally accepted.

More from Philip Kindred Dick

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