Such then ought to be the outpouring and diffusion of the understanding, and it should in no way be an effusion, but an extension, and it should make no violent or impetuous collision with the obstacles which are in its way; nor yet fall down, but be fixed, and enlighten that which receives it.
From his personal reflections, this passage uses the sun's diffusion as a metaphor for how understanding should extend without violent collision, enlightening what it touches.
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And how small a part of the whole substance; and how small a part of the universal soul; and on what a small clod of the whole earth thou creepest!
But if it is easy to set little value on all these things, turn to that which remains, which is to follow reason and God.
But everything else, whether it is in the power of thy will or not, is only lifeless ashes and smoke.
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