Then as to churches, they are good, I suppose, else…
““Then as to churches, they are good, I suppose, else wouldn't good men uphold' em. But they are not altogether necessary. They call 'em the temples of the Lord; but, Judith, the whole 'arth is a temple of the Lord to such as have the right mind. Neither forts nor churches make people happier of themselves. Moreover, all is contradiction in the settlements, while all is concord in the woods. Forts and churches almost always go together, and yet they're downright contradictions; churches being for peace, and forts for war. No, no--give me the strong places of the wilderness, which is the trees, and the churches, too, which are arbors raised by the hand of nature.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
He argues that organized institutions like churches and forts are contradictory to natural harmony, preferring the wild as true sanctuary.
In simple terms: Institutions can conflict with nature’s peace.
Key Takeaway
Seek simplicity and natural spaces.
Themes
nature
spirituality
contradiction
Mood
contemplative
critical
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- urban life
- religious practice
- military presence
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
institutional critique
philosophical idealism
environmentalism
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you find peace in natural settings?
- How do institutions affect personal freedom?
A Different Perspective
Nature may lack structure and safety.