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The gods do not grant miracles for our purposes, but for…

“The gods do not grant miracles for our purposes, but for theirs, Umegat had said. Yes? It seemed to Cazaril that this bargain ought to run two ways. If people stopped lending the gods their wills by which to do miracles, eh, what would the gods do about it then?” quote by Lois McMaster Bujold
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““ The gods do not grant miracles for our purposes, but for theirs, Umegat had said. Yes? It seemed to Cazaril that this bargain ought to run two ways. If people stopped lending the gods their wills by which to do miracles, eh, what would the gods do about it then?””

Lois McMaster Bujold

About This Quote

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

Divine miracles serve the gods' purposes, not human desires; humans must respect divine autonomy.

In simple terms: Gods act for themselves, not for us.

Key Takeaway

Accept limits of divine intervention.

Themes

theology power dynamics humility faith agency

Mood

thoughtful skeptical

Type

theological reflective

When to use this quote

  • prayer
  • ethical decision making
  • conflict resolution
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

divine will miracle ethics human-divine relationship

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance personal wishes with perceived divine will?
  • What responsibilities arise when invoking higher powers?
A Different Perspective

Assuming gods will comply can lead to disappointment.

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