This quote by Boris Pasternak suggests that love is not a feeble or frail emotion, but rather a powerful force that is so intense and profound that only something as sacred and significant as the sacrament of marriage can hold or contain it.
In the first part, “Love is not weakness. It is strong,” Pasternak is challenging the common misconception that love makes people vulnerable or weak. He argues that love is, in fact, a strength. It is an empowering emotion that can inspire, motivate, and drive people to do great things. Love requires courage, resilience, and fortitude, as it often involves taking risks, making sacrifices, and facing challenges.
The second part of the quote, “Only the sacrament of marriage can contain it,” suggests that love is such a potent and overwhelming force that it requires a robust and sacred institution like marriage to channel and manage it. Marriage, in this context, is seen as a vessel or framework that provides structure, stability, and direction to the raw and untamed power of love. It helps to harness the energy of love in a productive and meaningful way.
In today’s world, this quote could be interpreted as a call for a more profound understanding and appreciation of love and marriage. It reminds us that love is not a sign of weakness or vulnerability, but a source of strength and empowerment. It encourages us to view marriage not merely as a social or legal contract, but as a sacred bond that can help us channel the power of love in positive and constructive ways.
In terms of personal development, this quote could inspire us to cultivate a more robust and resilient form of love – one that is not afraid of risks, challenges, or sacrifices. It could also motivate us to seek relationships that offer not just companionship and comfort, but also growth, strength, and empowerment. Furthermore, it could challenge us to rethink our attitudes towards marriage and to recognize its potential as a tool for personal and spiritual growth.