It seems to me that it was well said by Madama…
“It seems to me that it was well said by Madama Serenissima, and insisted on by your reverence, that the Holy Scripture cannot err, and that the decrees therein contained are absolutely true and inviolable. But I should have in your place added that, though Scripture cannot err, its expounders and interpreters are liable to err in many ways; and one error in particular would be most grave and most frequent, if we always stopped short at the literal signification of the words.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Scripture is infallible, but human interpretation can err, especially when limiting understanding to literal meanings.
In simple terms: Texts are perfect; readers can misinterpret.
Key Takeaway
Question interpretations, seek deeper meaning.
Themes
faith
interpretation
authority
error
Mood
thoughtful
cautious
Type
theological
philosophical
When to use this quote
- Bible study
- religious education
- interfaith dialogue
Key Concepts
theology
hermeneutics
epistemology
Questions to Reflect On
- What risks arise from taking texts at face value?
- How can we balance respect for text with critical analysis?
A Different Perspective
Literal reading can miss spiritual nuance.