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The sentence of the first murderer was pronounced by the…

“The sentence of the first murderer was pronounced by the Supreme Judge of the universe. Was it death? No, it was life. 'A fugitive and a vagabond shalt thou be in the earth'; and 'Whosoever slayeth Cain, vengeance shall be taken on him sevenfold.” quote by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
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“The sentence of the first murderer was pronounced by the Supreme Judge of the universe. Was it death? No, it was life. 'A fugitive and a vagabond shalt thou be in the earth'; and 'Whosoever slayeth Cain, vengeance shall be taken on him sevenfold.”

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

About This Quote

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

The poem contrasts death and life, referencing biblical vengeance and exile.

In simple terms: Life follows death; vengeance is inevitable.

Key Takeaway

Reflect on consequences of actions.

Themes

religion justice life death

Mood

reflective solemn

Type

philosophical poetic

When to use this quote

  • personal loss
  • legal judgment
  • spiritual reflection

Key Concepts

theology moral philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What defines true justice?
  • Can forgiveness replace vengeance?
A Different Perspective

Vengeance may perpetuate cycles of suffering.

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