Meaning: The quote "O my God, what must a soul be like when it is in this state! It longs to be all one tongue with which to praise the Lord. It utters a thousand pious follies, in a continuous endeavor to please Him who thus possesses it." is attributed to Saint Teresa of Avila, a prominent Spanish mystic, and theologian of the 16th century. Saint Teresa was a key figure in the Catholic Reformation and was known for her writings on spirituality and mysticism. This particular quote reflects her profound experience of spiritual longing and devotion to God.

In this quote, Saint Teresa expresses the intense longing of the soul to be united with God in praise and adoration. She uses vivid imagery to convey the depth of the soul's yearning, describing it as desiring to be "all one tongue" with which to praise the Lord. This imagery emphasizes the soul's intense desire for unity with God and its aspiration to express boundless devotion. The use of the phrase "pious follies" suggests that the soul is driven to express its love for God through fervent and perhaps imperfect words and actions, as it strives to please the divine presence that it feels within.

Saint Teresa's words capture the essence of the mystical experience, characterized by a profound sense of union with the divine and a longing for deeper spiritual connection. Her writings often explore the themes of spiritual ecstasy, divine love, and the soul's journey towards God. This quote reflects her personal experience of these profound spiritual states and her attempt to articulate the ineffable experience of divine presence and communion.

Saint Teresa of Avila's spiritual insights and experiences continue to inspire and resonate with people of various religious backgrounds. Her writings have had a lasting impact on Christian spirituality and mysticism, and she is revered as a saint in the Catholic Church. Through her mystical experiences and profound reflections, she offers valuable insights into the nature of the soul's longing for God and the transformative power of divine love.

In conclusion, Saint Teresa of Avila's quote encapsulates the intense spiritual longing and yearning for divine union that is central to her mystical writings. Her words convey the depth of the soul's desire to praise and please the Lord, reflecting her own profound experiences of spiritual ecstasy and divine communion. This quote serves as a powerful expression of the mystic's journey towards God and continues to inspire seekers of spiritual truth and union with the divine.