Meaning: This quote by John Jewel, a 16th-century English clergyman and theologian, encapsulates a fundamental belief in Christian theology regarding the importance of spiritual knowledge and the existence of the soul. The quote draws a parallel between the physical death of the body when the soul departs and the spiritual death of the soul when it lacks the knowledge of God. It reflects the idea that true life and vitality are derived from a connection to God and that without this knowledge, the soul is effectively dead.

The quote's first part, "As the body dieth when the soul departeth," alludes to the traditional understanding of death in Christianity. According to this view, the body is seen as the vessel for the soul, and when the soul leaves the body, the body dies. This concept is rooted in the belief in the immortality of the soul and the temporal nature of the physical body. The departure of the soul signifies the end of life on earth for the individual.

The second part of the quote, "so the soul of man dieth, when it hath not the knowledge of God," emphasizes the significance of spiritual knowledge and connection to God for the soul's vitality. In the Christian tradition, the knowledge of God is considered essential for the nourishment and flourishing of the soul. Without this knowledge, the soul is believed to be in a state of spiritual death or separation from God, which is seen as the ultimate source of life and fulfillment.

Jewel's quote reflects a central theme in Christian theology that underscores the importance of spiritual enlightenment and communion with God for the well-being of the soul. It suggests that a life devoid of the knowledge of God is akin to a lifeless existence, devoid of spiritual vitality and purpose. This viewpoint has significant implications for the understanding of human existence and the pursuit of meaning and fulfillment.

The quote also resonates with the broader conversation about the nature of the soul and its relationship to the divine in religious and philosophical discourses. It raises questions about the nature of the soul, its immortality, and its dependence on spiritual knowledge and connection to God for its sustenance and flourishing. These questions have been central to theological and philosophical inquiries across different religious traditions and have sparked rich and diverse discussions about the essence of human identity and purpose.

In summary, John Jewel's quote encapsulates a profound belief in the Christian tradition regarding the significance of spiritual knowledge and connection to God for the vitality of the soul. It underscores the idea that the soul's life and vitality are contingent on its relationship with God and that a lack of this knowledge results in spiritual death. This quote invites contemplation on the nature of the soul, the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment, and the quest for meaning and fulfillment in human existence.