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To talk of comparing the Bible with other "sacred books"…

“To talk of comparing the Bible with other "sacred books" so called, such as the Koran...or the book of Mormon, is positively absurd. You might as well compare the sun with a rushlight, or Skiddaw with a molehill, or St. Paul's with an Irish hovel, or the Portland vase with a garden pot, or the…” quote by J. C. Ryle
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“To talk of comparing the Bible with other "sacred books" so called, such as the Koran...or the book of Mormon, is positively absurd. You might as well compare the sun with a rushlight, or Skiddaw with a molehill, or St. Paul's with an Irish hovel, or the Portland vase with a garden pot, or the Kohinoor diamond with a bit of glass. God seems to have allowed the existence of these pretended revelations, in order to prove the immeasurable superiority of His own Word.”

J. C. Ryle

About This Quote

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

The quote argues that the Bible is vastly superior to other religious texts, using exaggerated analogies to emphasize its unique authority.

In simple terms: The Bible is far more important than other holy books.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the Bible’s distinct value.

Themes

religion comparisons authority

Mood

defensive assertive

Type

apologetic controversial

When to use this quote

  • church teaching
  • interfaith dialogue
  • personal study
  • apologetics

Key Concepts

theology exclusivism scriptural criticism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you evaluate the worth of different religious texts?
  • Can respectful dialogue coexist with strong convictions?
A Different Perspective

The analogy may oversimplify complex religious traditions and alienate believers of other faiths.

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