He is omnipresent not only virtually but also substantially.… In him all things are contained and move, but he does not act on them nor they on him.… He is always and everywhere.… He is all eye, all ear, all brain, all arm, all force of sensing, of understanding, and of acting.
This quote offers a profound reflection on the omnipresence and immanence of a divine or universal consciousness. It emphasizes that such a presence is not merely abstract or limited to a conceptual or virtual realm but is also substantial and tangible in a metaphysical sense. The idea that everything exists within this presence — contained, moved, and sustained by it — evokes a vision of an interconnected universe where no part is truly separate from the whole. The imagery of being "all eye, all ear, all brain, all arm" encapsulates a sense of omniscience and omnipotence, suggesting that this presence perceives and sustains everything without actively intervening in a controlling manner, but rather as the fundamental enabling force. This concept is reminiscent of many philosophical and theological ideas about divine immanence, where a higher power permeates all aspects of existence without necessarily dictating or manipulating the occurrences within the universe. It challenges us to reconsider the nature of divine action and presence, urging us to think of a force that is both immanent and transcendent—pervading all that is while remaining beyond the confines of physical intervention.
Standing at the intersection of philosophy, theology, and science, this perspective invites a meditation on the nature of reality and our place within it. It calls for an appreciation of the subtle but persistent influence of this omnipresent presence, which sustains the order and chaos, life and death, motion and stillness all around us. Such a view fosters humility, awe, and a sense of interconnectedness, fundamentally altering how we perceive our universe and ourselves within it. This understanding can inspire a deeper sense of reverence and encourage a pursuit of knowledge grounded in respect for the infinite complexity and harmony of existence.