“No ray of sunlight is ever lost, but the green which it awakes into existence needs time to sprout, and it is not always granted to the sower to see the harvest. All work that is worth anything is done in faith.”
— Albert Schweitzer · 1875 – 1965Source: no specific work is documented · Check the source
Disputed attributionWhat we know
- What is documented
- The wording is commonly published under Albert Schweitzer’s name and appears in a German form attributed to him, but no authenticated primary text has been found.
- What remains uncertain
- Quotation databases and later collections reproduce the line, yet they are secondary sources; the English phrasing may be a translation or editorial assembly rather than a verified original.
Understanding the quote
The image of sunlight awakening unseen green suggests meaningful actions often bear fruit only later. It urges steady, ethical work without promise of recognition. The line is commonly linked to Albert Schweitzer, but no primary source has been firmly established.
In the original · German
Kein Sonnenstrahl geht jemals verloren, aber das Grün, das er ins Leben ruft, braucht Zeit zum Sprießen, und es ist dem Sämann nicht immer vergönnt, die Ernte zu sehen. Alle Arbeit, die etwas wert ist, geschieht im Glauben.
The story behind it
Schweitzer combined careers as theologian, Bach scholar, physician and hospital founder — a rare blend that mirrors the quote’s mix of thought and practical care. He won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1952.
Going further
- The era
- Early to mid‑20th century, an era of long-term humanitarian and social projects.
- The thinking
- It means doing the right thing because it matters, not because you’ll see success now — steady, responsible action without immediate reward.
- Key word
- Faith: working with hope and commitment despite uncertain or delayed results.
- Who quoted it
- Quoted widely in education, public health and activism circles to encourage long-term commitment when outcomes are delayed.
Three challenges to live it
In the app, you pick the one that fits your day, and in the evening you say how it went.
Write a 250–300 word letter to a future generation or your community describing a small action you take today and why it matters.
The quote emphasizes sowing without guaranteed harvest; writing a letter makes the intention tangible and honors faith in future results.
Plant three seeds (or a small pot) today and spend ten minutes watering and naming each seed with the intention you are sowing.
The ray-and-green image becomes tangible by planting; physical care embodies perseverance and faith in fruits yet to come.
Call or meet someone you regularly support and tell them why you persist even without immediate recognition.
The quote urges faith-driven action; voicing your reasons strengthens commitment and acknowledges the moral value beyond visible rewards.
How does your current work require faith despite uncertain outcomes?
Report an error
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