“A Warrior knows that an angel and a devil are both competing for his sword hand. The devil says: "You will weaken. You will not know exactly when. You are afraid." The angel says: "You will weaken. You will not know exactly when. You are afraid." The Warrior is surprised. Both the angel and the devil have said the same thing. The devil continues: "Let me help you." And the angel says: "I will help you." At that moment the Warrior understands the difference. The words may be the same but these two allies are completely different. And he chooses the angel's hand.”
Explore This Quote Further
Example of Usage:
In this excerpt from Paulo Coelho's book, we see a powerful analogy of how inner battles are fought within a Warrior's mind. The struggle between good and evil, represented by an angel and a devil, highlights the importance of choosing the right path despite the similarity in their words.
Quote Analysis
In this quote, Paulo Coelho explores the battle between good and evil within oneself. The Warrior is faced with the conflicting voices of an angel and a devil, both offering their assistance in times of weakness and fear. Despite their similar words, the Warrior discerns the true intentions of each ally and chooses to follow the guidance of the angel. This quote emphasizes the importance of making the right choices and discerning between positive and negative influences in one's life.
Finding Strength in Challenges
In this modern world where we are constantly bombarded with conflicting thoughts and emotions, Paulo Coelho's words about the inner struggle between good and evil within us still hold true. The concept of choosing to listen to the voice of positivity and strength during difficult times can be applied to many aspects of our lives. In a time where mental health is becoming more prominent, it is essential to remember to choose the angel's hand - to seek help, stay positive, and find the strength to overcome our inner demons.
Reflection Questions
Understanding the battle between the angel and devil within us can offer powerful insights into our own struggles and choices. Reflect on the following questions to deepen your understanding of this concept:
- When have you felt torn between two conflicting voices or impulses within yourself?
- How do you typically differentiate between the “angel” and “devil” in your own life?
- In what ways do fear and uncertainty play a role in influencing your decisions?
- Have you ever experienced a moment where you consciously chose to follow the “angel’s hand” over the “devil’s hand”? What was the outcome?
- How can acknowledging and embracing both the light and dark aspects of ourselves lead to personal growth and transformation?
Similar quotes
“The warrior of light knows the importance of intuition. In the midst of battle, he does not have time to think of the enemy's blows, and so he uses his instinct and obeys his angel. in times of peace, he deciphers the signs that God sends him. People say, "He's mad." Or, "He lives in a fantasy world." Or even, "How can he possibly believe in such illogical things?" But the warrior knows that intuition is God's alphabet and he continues listening to the wind and talking to the stars.”
“You are not a devil, you're an angel. My angel.”
“At these times, the adversary appears holding two boards.Written on one board: “Think more of yourself. Keep your blessings to yourself, otherwise you will lose everything.”The other board reads: “who are you to help others? Can’t you even see your own defects?”A warrior of the light knows he has defects. But he also knows he cannot grow alone, and distance himself from his companions.So he throws both boards to the ground, even though he believes they contain some truth deep down. They turn to dust, and the warrior continues to help those near him.”
“It is up to man to be an angel or a devil! You become whatever you choose to be!”
“God will bless you,' said he, 'you are an angel since you take care of the flowers.''No,' she replied. 'I am the devil, but that's all the same to me.”
“Saint Anthony said, in his solitude, he sometimes encountered devils who looked like angels, and other times he found angels who looked like devils. When asked how he could tell the difference, the saint said that you can only tell which is which by the way you feel after the creature has left your company.”