As to the Divine Design, is it not an instance of…
““As to the Divine Design, is it not an instance of incomprehensibly and infinitely marvellous Wisdom and Design to have given certain laws to matter millions of ages ago, which have surely and precisely worked out, in the long course of those ages, those effects which He from the first proposed. Mr. Darwin's theory need not then to be atheistical, be it true or not; it may simply be suggesting a larger idea of Divine Prescience and Skill. Perhaps your friend has got a surer clue to guide him than I have, who have never studied the question, and I do not [see] that 'the accidental evolution of organic beings' is inconsistent with divine design—It is accidental to us, not to God.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The passage argues that natural laws and evolution can coexist with divine design, suggesting a broader divine intelligence beyond human understanding.
In simple terms: Evolution and divine design can align.
Key Takeaway
Consider broader perspectives on science and faith.
Themes
faith
science
philosophy
theology
Mood
contemplative
inquisitive
Type
theological
philosophical
When to use this quote
- religious debate
- science education
- personal belief formation
Key Concepts
divine providence
evolution
intelligent design
Questions to Reflect On
- Can scientific discovery deepen faith?
- How to reconcile apparent randomness with purpose?
A Different Perspective
Science may challenge literal interpretations.