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Reason, tradition, speculative conviction, dead orthodoxy…

“Reason, tradition, speculative conviction, dead orthodoxy, are a girdle of spider-webs. They give way at the first onset. Truth alone, as abiding in the mind in the form of divine knowledge, can give strength or confidence even in the ordinary conflicts of the Christian life, much more in any…” quote by Charles Hodge
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““Reason, tradition, speculative conviction, dead orthodoxy, are a girdle of spider-webs. They give way at the first onset. Truth alone, as abiding in the mind in the form of divine knowledge, can give strength or confidence even in the ordinary conflicts of the Christian life, much more in any really "evil day.””

Charles Hodge

About This Quote

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

Criticizing rigid traditions that hinder truth, urging reliance on divine knowledge for strength.

In simple terms: Traditions can trap truth; divine knowledge frees.

Key Takeaway

Seek truth beyond tradition.

Themes

faith truth tradition skepticism

Mood

reflective serious

Type

theological philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal crisis
  • ethical dilemmas
  • religious debate
  • moral decision making

Key Concepts

theology philosophy spirituality

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance tradition and truth?
  • When does faith become a hindrance?
A Different Perspective

Divine knowledge may not be universally accessible.

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