First, whenever a man talks loudly against religion…
“First, whenever a man talks loudly against religion, always suspect that it is not his reason, but his passions, which have got the better of his creed. A bad life and a good belief are disagreeable and troublesome neighbors, and where they separate, depend upon it, 'Tis for no other cause but quietness sake.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Passions can dominate rational belief, causing conflict between heartfelt emotion and doctrinal reason, leading to inner unrest.
In simple terms: Strong emotions can override reason, creating tension between feeling and belief.
Balance emotion with reason to avoid inner conflict.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- debates on faith
- personal decision making
- moral dilemmas
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you separate passion from belief?
- Can reason coexist with strong emotion?
Passions may cloud judgment; reason is still needed.