Confessions by Augustine (Available from Amazon or free here) - Read Book XI.
Firstly Augustine considers how God created the world through his word and wisdom.
Then a lengthy discussion follows on the subject of time. But even his deep thinking, Augustine confesses: 'And I confess to Thee, O Lord, that I yet know not what time is...'
What grabbed me
I loved this quote: 'See, I answer him that asketh, “What did God before He made heaven and earth?” I answer not as one is said to have done merrily (eluding the pressure of the question), “He was preparing hell (saith he) for pryers into mysteries.” It is one thing to answer enquiries, another to make sport of enquirers. So I answer not; for rather had I answer, “I know not,” what I know not, than so as to raise a laugh at him who asketh deep things and gain praise for one who answereth false things.'
Yes, it is not good to make fun of honest inquirers, but there are some questions that are highly speculative and a bit of a waste of time. And I think the 'merry' answer Augustine quotes would be a good one to use in some instances.
Next week's reading
Please post your own notes and thoughts in the comments section below.
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