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Wherever God erects a house of prayer the Devil always…

“Wherever God erects a house of prayer the Devil always builds a chapel there; And t’will be found, upon examination, the latter has the largest congregation." — Defoe's The True-Born Englishman, 1701” quote by Daniel Defoe
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““Wherever God erects a house of prayer the Devil always builds a chapel there; And t’will be found, upon examination, the latter has the largest congregation." — Defoe's The True-Born Englishman, 1701””

Daniel Defoe

About This Quote

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

Religious institutions often face opposition, and the opposing group may attract more followers than intended.

In simple terms: Opposition can unintentionally grow larger.

Key Takeaway

Beware of unintended consequences.

Themes

religion conflict influence

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

historical satirical

When to use this quote

  • church planting
  • interfaith dialogue
  • community building
  • media analysis

Key Concepts

social dynamics group psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can leaders anticipate and mitigate backlash?
  • What factors turn opposition into attraction?
A Different Perspective

The quote may exaggerate historical tensions; not all opposition leads to larger followings.

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