Meaning: This powerful quote by Rudolf Otto, a renowned theologian, captures the awe-inspiring beauty and mystery of the natural world. In just a few lines, Otto paints a vivid picture of the contrasting forces at play in the natural world, and he invites the reader to contemplate the profound and eternal aspects of existence.

In the opening line, Otto vividly describes the relentless power of the sea as its waves break against the solid foundation of the rock. This imagery conjures a sense of raw energy and the ceaseless cycle of nature. The contrast between the "broad, roaring waves" and the "deep foundation of the rock" evokes a feeling of both chaos and stability, highlighting the dynamic and often unpredictable forces that shape the world around us.

However, it is in the second part of the quote that Otto introduces a transcendent and ethereal element to the scene. He contrasts the tumultuous sea and rocky peaks with the "eternal ornamentation" that "blooms silently from the dark depths of the universe." Here, Otto introduces a sense of timelessness and beauty that exists beyond the immediate and tangible world. The use of the word "eternal" suggests a permanence and significance that transcends the transitory nature of the sea and the mountains. Additionally, the idea of "ornamentation" implies a sense of embellishment and adornment, hinting at a deeper layer of meaning and purpose to the natural world.

Otto's choice of language is particularly evocative in this quote. The use of words such as "broad, roaring waves," "deep foundation of the rock," and "dark depths of the universe" creates a sense of depth and power, while the imagery of "eternal ornamentation" and "blooms silently" introduces a sense of quiet, understated beauty. This interplay of contrasting elements serves to emphasize the profound and complex nature of the world around us.

Furthermore, the quote can be interpreted as a reflection on the interconnectedness of the natural world and the transcendent forces that underpin it. The juxtaposition of the sea and the mountain with the "dark depths of the universe" suggests a harmonious relationship between the tangible, earthly realm and the intangible, cosmic realm. It invites contemplation on the interplay of physical and spiritual forces, and the idea that there is more to existence than meets the eye.

In conclusion, Rudolf Otto's quote is a poetic and thought-provoking meditation on the power, beauty, and mystery of the natural world. Through vivid imagery and evocative language, Otto invites the reader to contemplate the profound forces at play in the world around us, and to consider the timeless and transcendent aspects of existence. The quote serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of all things and the enduring significance of the universe's unseen depths.