He who prohibited the making of a graven image would never himself have made an image in the likeness of holy things [i.e., by creating an image of them here on earth]. Nor is there at all any composite thing or creature endowed with sensation [made by God here on earth] like those in heaven. But the face is a symbol of the rational soul, the wings are the lofty ministers and energies of powers right and left, and the voice is delightful glory in endless contemplation.
Clement of AlexandriaPrayer that runs its course till the last day of life needs a strong and tranquil soul.
Clement of AlexandriaJust as God's will is creation and is called 'the world' so His intention is the salvation of men, and it is called 'the Church.'
Clement of AlexandriaIf the Lord counts the natural beauty of the body inferior to that of the soul, what thinks He of spurious beauty, rejecting utterly as He does all falsehood?
Clement of AlexandriaWe say that knowledge is not mere talk, but a certain divine knowledge, that light which is kindled in the soul as a result of obedience to the commandments, and which reveals all that is in a state of becoming, enables man to know himself and teaches him to become possessed of God.
Clement of Alexandria