Canto VIIIc

INTRO TO Lines 34 & 35

Dante has been approached by a “slimy shape” who asked him, “Who are you?”  He then responds with Lines 34 & 35

 LINES 34 & 35

And I spoke back, “Though I come, I do not stay; but who are you, in all your ugliness?”

 OBSERVATION

This is the first time that Dante is not compassionate to those whom he encounters in the Inferno.  The fifth Circle, with the wrathful, cause him to be angry with those he encounters.

 SCRIPTURE TO PONDER (Yesterday)

Do not make friends with hot-tempered, do not associate with those who are easily angered, or you may learn their ways and get yourself ensnared.  Proverbs 22:  24 & 25

 Intro to Lines 52 – 55

Dante’s journey with Virgil is about to continue on; but he has one wish (prayer) for the “slimy shape” that he shares with Virgil.

 LINES 52 – 55

“Master, it certainly would make me happy to see him dunked deep into this slop just once before we leave this lake - it truly would.”

 OBSERVATION

For some reason, Dante does not like this person.  His anger causes ill will for this “slimy shape.”

 QUESTION TO PONDER

Has your ill will caused you to hope for misfortune for those who anger you?

 SCRIPTURE TO PONDER

“Love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you.”  Matthew 5:44b 

 THOUGHT TO PONDER

Anger moves us out of control to become more like our enemy.

 SCRIPTURE TO PONDER

“And don’t sin by letting anger control you...”  Ephesians 4:26a