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One of the most pusillanimous things we of the female sex…

“One of the most pusillanimous things we of the female sex have done throughout the centuries is to have allowed the male sex to assume that mankind is masculine. It is not. It takes both male and female to make the image of God. The proper understanding of mankind is that it is only a poor, broken…” quote by Madeleine L'Engle
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““One of the most pusillanimous things we of the female sex have done throughout the centuries is to have allowed the male sex to assume that mankind is masculine. It is not. It takes both male and female to make the image of God. The proper understanding of mankind is that it is only a poor, broken thing if either male or female is excluded.””

Madeleine L'Engle

About This Quote

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

The quote argues that humanity is a blend of masculine and feminine, and excluding either leads to an incomplete, broken view of humanity.

In simple terms: Both genders are needed for a complete humanity.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and value both masculine and feminine contributions.

Themes

gender equality theology human nature inclusivity

Mood

reflective thoughtful inspirational

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • relationships
  • leadership
  • spiritual practice
  • education
  • policy making

Key Concepts

dualism complementarity identity balance

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does excluding one gender affect societal structures?
  • In what ways can we foster true gender complementarity?
A Different Perspective

It may overlook non-binary and cultural variations in gender concepts.

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