Meaning: The quote "Christ himself wrote nothing, but furnished endless material for books and songs of gratitude and praise" by Philip Schaff, a theologian, encapsulates a profound insight into the influence and impact of Jesus Christ on literature, music, and the arts. In this quote, Schaff highlights the extraordinary and enduring legacy of Christ, emphasizing that although he did not write any books or songs himself, his life, teachings, and influence have been the inspiration for countless works of literature and music that express gratitude and praise for him.

The quote acknowledges the fact that Jesus Christ, as a historical figure, did not leave behind any written works attributed directly to himself. Instead, his life, words, and actions have been documented in the form of the Gospels and other texts that comprise the New Testament of the Christian Bible. Despite this absence of original written material directly authored by Christ, the impact of his life and teachings has been profound and far-reaching, serving as the inspiration for a vast body of literature and music that extols his virtues and significance.

The reference to "endless material for books and songs of gratitude and praise" underscores the enduring and boundless influence of Christ on human creativity and expression. Throughout history, countless authors, poets, and songwriters have been inspired by the life and teachings of Jesus to create works that celebrate his life, teachings, and the profound impact he has had on the world. From classic literary works such as Dante's "The Divine Comedy" to hymns and choral compositions that form the rich tradition of sacred music, the influence of Christ on artistic expression is indeed immeasurable.

Furthermore, Schaff's quote reflects the profound impact of Christ on the development of Western civilization and culture. The themes of love, compassion, sacrifice, and redemption that are central to the Christian faith have permeated the literary and musical traditions of the West, shaping the way in which artists and writers have explored the human experience and grappled with questions of faith, morality, and the meaning of existence. The quote thus acknowledges the enduring relevance of Christ's message and its profound impact on the cultural and artistic expression of successive generations.

In conclusion, Philip Schaff's quote serves as a testament to the enduring influence of Jesus Christ on literature, music, and the arts. By emphasizing the absence of Christ's own written works and yet the abundance of material inspired by him, the quote underscores the profound impact of his life and teachings on human creativity and expression. Through the enduring legacy of books and songs that express gratitude and praise for Christ, the quote encapsulates the enduring significance of his influence on the cultural and artistic traditions of the Western world.