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We should turn our attention to material things only in so far as some necessity forces us to do so. But always to be creeping on the ground in search of pleasure is defiling and degrading for someone with experience of spiritual knowledge.

— Nilus of Sinai Ascetic Discourse (425)

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More quotes by Nilus of Sinai

The philosopher must be above all a free man, and not a slave of the passions.

Ascetic Discourse (425)

When bodily concerns predominate, everything in man is asleep: the intellect, the soul and the senses.

Ascetic Discourse (425)

Philosophy is a state of moral integrity combined with a doctrine of true knowledge concerning reality.

Ascetic Discourse (425)

Improbable details are often included in a story because of the deeper truth they signify.

Ascetic Discourse (425)

Who, when asked, will refuse to give what is needful to one who lives a holy life?

Ascetic Discourse (425)

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