Saint Augustine, born Aurelius Augustinus on November 13, 354 AD, in Thagaste, Numidia (modern-day Souk Ahras, Algeria), was a renowned theologian, philosopher, and Bishop of Hippo. His career highlights include authoring influential works like “Confessions” and “The City of God,” which shaped Christian doctrine and Western philosophy. Augustine’s achievements encompass his role in defining concepts of grace, sin, and human will, making him a cornerstone of early Christianity. The quotes here are sourced from his books, sermons, and letters, reflecting his timeless wisdom on life’s deeper meanings. This list presents 15 quotes by Saint Augustine about life, offering insights into existence, faith, and morality.
15 Saint Augustine Quotes
1. “Thou hast made us for thyself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it rests in thee.” (Book, “Confessions,” 400 AD)
2. “Love, and do what you will.” (Sermon on 1 John, 407 AD)
3. “The measure of love is to love without measure.” (Commentaries on the Psalms, c. 400 AD)
4. “Patience is the companion of wisdom.” (Book, “On Patience,” 418 AD)
5. “God loves each of us as if there were only one of us.” (Attributed sermon, c. 400 AD)
6. “Faith is to believe what you do not see; the reward of this faith is to see what you believe.” (Tractates on the Gospel of John, c. 407 AD)
7. “Do you wish to rise? Begin by descending. You plan a tower that will pierce the clouds? Lay first the foundation of humility.” (Sermon 69, c. 400 AD)
8. “What does love look like? It has the hands to help others. It has the feet to hasten to the poor and needy.” (Sermon 198, c. 400 AD)
9. “Pray as though everything depended on God. Work as though everything depended on you.” (Attributed sermon, c. 400 AD)
10. “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” (Letter 55, c. 400 AD)
11. “He who created us without our help will not save us without our consent.” (Sermon 169, c. 400 AD)
12. “In the absence of justice, what is sovereignty but organized brigandage?” (Book, “The City of God,” 426 AD)
13. “Bad company corrupts good character.” (Commentary on 1 Corinthians, c. 400 AD)
14. “The confession of evil works is the first beginning of good works.” (Book, “Confessions,” 400 AD)
15. “Understand that you may believe, but believe that you may understand.” (Book, “De Vera Religione,” c. 390 AD)
In these quotes, Saint Augustine’s wisdom illuminates the complexities of human life, stressing the soul’s yearning for truth, the transformative power of love, and the role of faith in overcoming trials. His reflections reveal a man deeply attuned to life’s struggles and joys, offering guidance that remains relevant today. What resonates with you? Share your thoughts or a favorite quote in the comments below.