"bloweth where it listeth". What does it mean?
Context:

...history proves yet another adage, that the creative "spirit" that sparks things "bloweth where it listeth" and no man knows its comings and goings.

Thanks!

Question

"bloweth where it listeth". What does it mean?
Context:

...history proves yet another adage, that the creative "spirit" that sparks things "bloweth where it listeth" and no man knows its comings and goings.

Thanks!

Answer

hi, 
I think it means "The wind blows where it wishes; nothing can stop it. ;)
So, your whole text will be like this:

"The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit."

:)

Answer

I looked up the old meanings of "list" out of curiosity - yes, it can mean "choose/desire"! I was actually thinking of "listen" (Gilbert and Sullivan: "List and Learn") or "lean" (ie. the mast of a ship lists). What a flexible word! :)

Answer

No, It's not medieval text. http://www.amazon.com/AFTER-ABSOLUTE-Adventures-Backwoods-Buddha/dp/0595239943/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1262964364&sr=8-1

Answer

...., aren't you? * ;D

Answer

I guess "To List" means to desire or wish. I think you are reading a medieval text, don't you? ;)

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