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One may say with one's lips: “I believe that the world was…

“One may say with one's lips: “I believe that the world was created six thousand years ago;” or, “I believe that Jesus flew away into the skies and is sitting on the right hand of the Father;” or, “God is One, and also Three;” — but no one can believe it, because the words have no sense.” quote by Leo Tolstoy
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“One may say with one's lips: “I believe that the world was created six thousand years ago;” or, “I believe that Jesus flew away into the skies and is sitting on the right hand of the Father;” or, “God is One, and also Three;” — but no one can believe it, because the words have no sense.”

Leo Tolstoy

About This Quote

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

Words lacking logical sense cannot be truly believed; belief requires coherent meaning.

In simple terms: Belief needs sense.

Key Takeaway

Seek logical coherence before belief.

Themes

faith logic belief language philosophy

Mood

skeptical thoughtful

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • religious discourse
  • philosophical debate
  • personal reflection
  • education
  • public speaking

Key Concepts

Epistemology semantic coherence theology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you evaluate the sense of a claim?
  • Can belief exist without logical support?
A Different Perspective

People may hold irrational beliefs despite nonsensical statements.

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