Book IV, 9: On the two Essences

Gods sacred Essence represents the bright
And glorious body of the greater light:
'Tis perfect; hath a Being of her owne,
Giving to all, receiving light from none:
Mans Essence represents the borrowed light
And feeble luster of the Lampe of night:
Her Rayes are faint, and her Reflection thin,
Distain'd with nat'rall blemishes within;
Inconstant, various; having, of her owne,
No light at all; or light, as good as none:
When too much earth shall interpose, and slipps
Betwixt these Lights, our soules are in th' Eclips.