"Study what thou art Whereof thou art a part What thou knowest of this art This is really what thou art. All that is without thee also is within"
- William Drummond
About this Quote
This quote by William Drummond delves into the style of self-discovery and the interconnectedness of the individual and deep space. Let's break down its profound meaning.
The first line, "Study what thou art", motivates introspection and self-examination. It recommends that to comprehend oneself, one should participate in constant self-study. This suggests that the course to self-knowledge is an active pursuit, requiring attention and effort.
The expression "Whereof thou art a part" highlights the concept that each person is a fragment of a larger whole. This interconnectedness suggests that understanding oneself includes acknowledging the role and place one occupies in the more comprehensive context of the world and society. It's a recommendation that the self is not isolated however linked to the bigger material of existence.
"What thou knowest of this art" highlights the significance of knowledge and understanding in the journey of self-discovery. It presumes that self-awareness is an art-- a cultivated ability that grows through learning and experience. This line talks to the significance of awareness in understanding oneself and one's environment.
"This is truly what thou art" suggests that the culmination of self-study and understanding is the true essence of one's being. It points to the concept that through analyzing ourselves and our connections to the bigger universe, we start to see our true nature.
Lastly, "All that is without thee likewise is within" encapsulates a holistic view of presence-- that the external world mirrors the internal one. It implies an extensive unity between the inner self and the external world, suggesting that external experiences and universal truths are shown within the individual.
Drummond's quote eventually welcomes a journey inward, advising us to see that understanding ourselves is likewise understanding our place in the universe. Recognizing this interdependence can lead to a more profound self-awareness and appreciation of how elaborately woven our lives are with the world around us.