Meaning: The quote "He that falls into sin is a man; that grieves at it, is a saint; that boasteth of it, is a devil" by Thomas Fuller, a 17th-century English clergyman, offers a profound insight into the nature of human behavior and moral consciousness. This quote encapsulates the complex and often conflicting emotions and actions that individuals experience when confronted with the concept of sin and wrongdoing.

In the first part of the quote, Fuller acknowledges the universal human propensity to err and commit sinful acts. By stating that "He that falls into sin is a man," he highlights the inherent fallibility of human beings and the inevitability of succumbing to temptation or moral transgression. This acknowledgment of human imperfection is a recurring theme in various religious and philosophical traditions, recognizing that no individual is immune to the frailties of human nature.

The subsequent part of the quote introduces the notion of contrition and repentance, asserting that "he that grieves at it, is a saint." Here, Fuller emphasizes the virtue of acknowledging one's wrongdoing and experiencing genuine remorse for the harm caused by one's actions. The act of grieving at one's sin implies a heightened moral awareness and a desire for redemption, positioning the individual as a "saint" in the sense of striving for moral purity and spiritual growth.

The final segment of the quote takes a darker turn, condemning those who not only commit sin but also boast of it. Fuller unequivocally states that "he that boasteth of it, is a devil," drawing a sharp contrast between the humility of the repentant and the arrogance of the unrepentant sinner. By characterizing those who take pride in their transgressions as "devils," Fuller underscores the moral depravity and spiritual corruption inherent in such behavior. This part of the quote serves as a stark warning against the dangers of unbridled hubris and the glorification of sinful acts.

Thomas Fuller's quote captures the multidimensional nature of human morality and ethical conduct. It acknowledges the inevitability of moral lapses while emphasizing the importance of genuine remorse and the rejection of self-aggrandizement in the face of wrongdoing. Furthermore, the quote serves as a moral touchstone, encouraging individuals to reflect on their actions and attitudes towards sin, and to strive for genuine repentance and spiritual growth.

In summary, Thomas Fuller's quote offers a timeless reflection on the complexities of human moral behavior, highlighting the universal propensity for sin, the virtue of contrition, and the perils of pride and self-aggrandizement. It serves as a reminder of the enduring relevance of moral introspection and the pursuit of spiritual humility in the face of moral transgressions.