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Concern for the symbol has completely disappeared from our science. And yet, if one were to give oneself the trouble, one could easily find, in certain parts at least of contemporary mathematics... symbols as clear, as beautiful, and as full of spiritual meaning as that of the circle and mediation. From modern thought to ancient wisdom the path would be short and direct, if one cared to take it.

Simone Weil#1

SpiritualityScienceMathSymbolsWisdom

About this quote

What does it mean?
Modern science has lost spiritual meaning in its symbols, but ancient wisdom found deep beauty in simple ones like the circle.
In plain terms
Science lost spiritual meaning in symbols, but old wisdom found it in simple shapes.
What can you take from it?
Science lost the spiritual depth of symbols.

Where it applies

  • scientific study
  • mathematics
  • philosophy

Putting it to work

  • symbolic study
  • interdisciplinary reading
  • reconnecting science and wisdom

Questions to consider

  • Where do you see meaning?
  • Is math spiritual?

Another view

Modern science may have different goals and not seek spiritual meaning in symbols.

More from Simone Weil

  1. Wrongly or rightly you think that I have a right to the name of Christian. I assure you that when in speaking of my childhood and youth I use the words vocatio…

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  2. Religion in so far as it is a source of consolation is a hindrance to true faith; and in this sense atheism is a purification. I have to be an atheist with tha…

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  3. That is why St. John of the Cross calls faith a night. With those who have received a Christian education, the lower parts of the soul become attached to these…

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