Thomas Aquinas
Philosopher, Theologian
"For in order that man may do well, whether in the works of the active life, or in those of the contemplative life, he needs the fellowship of friends."
Contemplative Life quotes
Contemplative Life
21 quotes on this topic — from poets, philosophers, and thinkers across history.
Thomas Merton
Writer, Monk
"One of the strange laws of the contemplative life is that in it you do not sit down and solve problems: you bear with them until they somehow solve themselves. Or until life solves them for you."
Thomas Merton
Writer, Monk
"The Christian life, and especially the contemplative life, is a continual discovery of Christ in new and unexpected places."
Thomas Aquinas
Philosopher, Theologian
"Those who are more adapted to the active life can prepare themselves for contemplation in the practice of the active life, while those who are more adapted to the contemplative life can take upon themselves the works of the active life so as to become yet."
Thomas Merton
Writer, Monk
"There is always a temptation to diddle around in the contemplative life, making itsy-bitsy statues."
Explore further
Topics related to Contemplative Life
Browse quotes that often appear alongside contemplative life — connected by shared ideas and recurring themes.
Quote collection
Contemplative Life quotes (page 1 of 2)
Follow a thought to its author, or read the full quote page.
"Even the contemplative life is only an effort, Nora my dear, to hide the body so the feet won’t stick out."
Read quote
3 likes
"You know, Monsieur, that, although the contemplative life is more perfect than the active life, it is not, however, more so than one which embraces at the same time contemplation and action, as does yours, by God's grace."
Read quote
3 likes
"In general, it can be said that no contemplative life is possible without ascetic self-discipline. One must learn to survive without the habit-forming luxuries which get such a hold on men today. I do not say that to be a contemplative one absolutely has to go without smoking or without alcohol, but certainly one must be able to use these things without being dominated by an uncontrolled need for them."
Read quote
3 likes