For by their fruits you shall know them. ~Matthew 7:16
The Bible teaches that we know who people are by their fruits. I’ve been thinking about that lately. By what characteristics do we measure people? What are the qualities manifested by those we hold up as beacons of holiness or enlightenment? What are the attributes of someone we would consider a devout or holy person, a sage, a guru, a master? I researched various religious and spiritual traditions to see if I could find some commonality. Indeed I could.
These are the “fruits” I found in descriptions of those who represented the ideal in all sorts of religious and spiritual traditions: love, joy, tranquility, equanimity, patience, kindness, goodness, contentment, confidence, detachment, generosity, compassion, empathy, gentleness, insight, awareness, delight, forgiveness, fearlessness, gratitude, presence, fairness, mercy, helpfulness, tolerance, inclusion, knowingness, self-control, remembrance, humility, courtesy, simplicity, deep connection, ethical living, inner balance, trustworthiness, acceptance, service, unity.
That’s a long list of fruits! Just as telling as what’s there is what is not there. Nowhere did I find these characteristics in the lists of spiritual fruits: judgmental, holding particular beliefs, conformity, group identity, required rituals, adherence to a specific creed, divisiveness, political affiliation, exclusivity, superiority, condemnation, fearfulness, hierarchy, domination of others.
Apparently the litmus test for holiness or enlightenment in any religion or spiritual tradition has none of the markers we are so quick to judge others by. That’s something we might consider next time we are poised to label and evaluate someone else’s spiritual credentials. Perhaps instead of focusing on someone else, we might consider what fruits we are manifesting as we move through our lives. For by those fruits we are known.
What’s the difference between an enlightened person and an unenlightened person? The unenlightened person thinks there’s a difference.
~read in Miracles magazine
I love this quote ———What’s the difference between an enlightened person and an unenlightened person? The unenlightened person thinks there’s a difference.
~read in Miracles magazine
I know — I love it too! Makes me laugh every time.
This reminds me of Chapter 10 in your new book, where you reference both the fruits in the Bible and De.
See, I pay attention.
Yes, you do pay attention! I’ve been fascinated by the overlap of these attributes among various traditions. For example, I have a friend who is Muslim, and he sent me a list of qualities of a person who is “beloved by Allah” and his list aligned perfectly with the others. We are getting the same message from all sources telling us what is really important. Thanks for linking the post to chapter 10. I’m glad you are enjoying the book.
Galen, your reflections on being “known by the fruit” we bear are truly inspiring. It’s a poignant reminder that our actions and the love we extend to others are the true measures of our character. Your insights encourage a deeper self-examination of how we contribute positively to the world around us. Thank you for sharing such thoughtful perspectives that motivate us to live more intentionally and compassionately.
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