Saint Augustine: 'It was pride that changed angels into devils it is humility that makes men as angels.'

It was pride that changed angels into devils it is humility that makes men as angels.

The quote by Saint Augustine, "It was pride that changed angels into devils; it is humility that makes men as angels," carries a deep and profound meaning. In straightforward terms, the quote highlights the transformative power of pride and humility. Pride, often associated with arrogance and self-centeredness, is portrayed as the force that led to the downfall of angels, transforming them into devils. On the other hand, humility, a virtue emphasizing modesty and a recognition of one's limitations, is depicted as the quality that elevates humans, enabling them to embody angelic qualities.This quote holds great importance as it sheds light on the duality within human nature. Saint Augustine suggests that humans possess the potential to become angelic beings through the cultivation of humility. This implies that by embracing humility, individuals can rise above their inherent flaws and shortcomings, reaching a state of enlightenment and virtuous action. In contrast, succumbing to pride leads to a degrading transformation, mirroring the fall of angels from their heavenly state.Now, let's introduce an unexpected philosophical concept that will further enhance the intrigue surrounding this quote. Within the realm of philosophy, the idea of the "ascent of excellence" offers an interesting perspective on pride, humility, and the human condition. According to this concept, individuals have the potential to ascend levels of excellence through the continuous pursuit of virtue and self-improvement.The "ascent of excellence" theory suggests that each virtuous act or display of humility enables an individual to ascend closer to the divine. By practicing humility, humans detach themselves from pride and worldly desires, thus becoming more akin to angelic beings. This concept highlights the transformative power of humility: it not only counteracts the negative effects of pride but also propels individuals towards a state of moral perfection.Comparing pride and humility through the lens of the "ascent of excellence" theory further highlights the stark contrasts between the two. Pride, seen as a manifestation of ego and self-centered aspirations, obstructs personal growth and distances individuals from the divine. It fuels a sense of superiority, obstructing the cultivation of humility that is necessary for becoming angelic in nature. Conversely, humility, with its emphasis on selflessness and recognition of one's limitations, is seen as the stepping stone towards reaching a higher spiritual plane.In essence, Saint Augustine's quote illustrates the transformative power of pride and humility on both angels and humans. It reminds us of the consequences that pride can hold, leading to a fall from grace. However, it also offers hope by highlighting the potential of humility to uplift and elevate the human spirit towards angelic qualities. The introduction of the "ascent of excellence" concept further emphasizes the significance of cultivating humility as a means of transcending one's flaws and ascending towards a state of virtue and moral excellence.Ultimately, the quote by Saint Augustine serves as a powerful reminder of the choices we make and their lasting impact on our lives. It encourages us to embrace humility, as it has the power to reshape our character, elevate our souls, and guide us towards a more angelic existence. by being humbles and grounded, we can strive to make our world a better place, one small step at a time.