Above anything, welcome silence, for it brings fruits that no tongue can speak of, neither can it be explained.

The Commandments of God are higher than all the treasures of the earth. Whoever has acquired them has received God within himself.

It is impossible to draw near to God without sorrows, without which human righteousness cannot remain unchanged... If you desire virtue, than give yourself to every affliction, for afflictions produce humility. If someone abides in virtue without afflictions, the door of pride is opened to him.

Why do you increase your bonds? Take hold of your life before your light grows dark and you seek help and do not find it. This life has been given to you for repentance; do not waste it in vain pursuits.

Speech is the organ of this present world. Silence is the mystery of the world to come.

There is love like a small lamp, which goes out when the oil is consumed; or like a stream which dries up when it doesn't rain. But there is a love that is like a mighty spring gushing up out of the earth; it keeps flowing forever, and is inexhaustible.

Do not waste this life in vain pursuits.