Quote by G. C. (Georg Christoph) Lichtenb
A book is a mirror; if an ass peers into it, you can not expect an apostle to peer out.
Summary
This quote by Georg Christoph Lichtenberg means that when one looks into a book, they only see a reflection of themselves. If someone unintelligent or ignorant (represented by the "ass") reads a book, they will not find wisdom or enlightenment within it. It suggests that the value and insight one gains from reading depend on their own intellect and perspective. A book can only offer knowledge and profound ideas if the person approaching it has the capacity to understand and appreciate its content.