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If the devil be actually among us, then for the sake of…

“If the devil be actually among us, then for the sake of much which has seemed crass in orthodox religion, thus completely exonerated; for the sake of the fantastic in fiction and the lurid in legend, thus unexpectedly actualised; and, further, as it may be, for the sake of our own souls, we shall…” quote by Arthur Edward Waite
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““If the devil be actually among us, then for the sake of much which has seemed crass in orthodox religion, thus completely exonerated; for the sake of the fantastic in fiction and the lurid in legend, thus unexpectedly actualised; and, further, as it may be, for the sake of our own souls, we shall do well to know of it. If Abaddon, Apollyon, and the Lord of Flies are to be understood literally; above all, if they are liable to confront us in propria persona between Free Mason’s Hall and Duke Street, or between Duke Street and Avenue Road, then the sooner we can arrange our reconciliation with the one Church which has consistently and invariably taught the one full-grown, virile doctrine of devils, and has the bonâ-fide recipes for knowing, avoiding, and at need of exorcising them, why the better will it be, more especially if we have had previously any leanings towards the conception of an universal order not pivoting on perdition. If,””

Arthur Edward Waite

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

He argues that acknowledging literal demonic forces can help humanity confront and manage spiritual threats.

In simple terms: Recognize demons to protect souls.

Key Takeaway

Acknowledge and confront spiritual dangers.

Themes

spirituality mythology danger

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • rituals
  • personal reflection
  • literary analysis
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

demonology religious symbolism psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What role do demons play in your worldview?
  • How can confronting fear improve personal growth?
A Different Perspective

May be metaphorical rather than literal.

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