A microscopic phantom of the universe; this is all that we are able to be.

The efficacy of religion lies precisely in what is not rational, philosophic, nor eternal; its efficacy lies in the unforeseen, the miraculous, the extraordinary. Thus religion attracts more devotion according as it demands more faith - that is to say, as it becomes more incredible to the profane mind.

Wisdom consists in rising superior both to madness and to common sense, and is lending oneself to the universal illusion without becoming its dupe.

Pay bad people with your goodness; fight their hatred with your kindness. Even if you do not achieve a victory over other people, you will conquer yourself.

Every life is a profession of faith, and exercises an inevitable and silent influence.

True humility is contentment.

A man without passion is only a latent force, only a possibility, like a stone waiting for the blow from the iron to give forth sparks.