“Being is transcended by a concern for being. Our perplexity will not be solved by relating human existence to a timeless, subpersonal abstraction which we call essence.”

Self-respect is the fruit of discipline.

What we cannot comprehend by analysis, we become aware of in awe.

When faith becomes an heirloom rather than a living fountain; when religion speaks only in the name of authority rather than with the voice of compassion, its message becomes meaningless.

It is not critical knowledge but a risk of the heart which initiates affection and preserves loyalty in our fellow men.

The anchor of meaning resides in an abyss, deeper than the reach of despair.

I am commanded therefore I am.

Only in His presence shall we learn that the glory of humankind is not in its will to power but in its power of compassion.

Sometimes we wish the world could cry and tell us about that which made it pregnant with fear-filling grandeur. Sometimes we wish our own heart would speak of that which made it heavy with wonder.

When we pray, we bring G-d into the world

What is meant, however, is a higher category than being: the power of maintaining being.

A prophet’s true greatness is his ability to hold God and man in a single thought.

The supremacy of expediency is being refuted by time and truth.

How embarrassing for man to be the greatest miracle on earth and not to understand it!

God is either of no importance, or of supreme importance.

Those who are open to the wonder will not miss it. Faith is found in solicitude for faith, in an inner care for the wonder that is everywhere.

Life is not meaningful…unle ss it is serving an end beyond itself; unless it is of value to someone else.

There are times when I look over the various parts of my character with perplexity.