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The word 'God' is used in most cases as by no means a term…

“The word 'God' is used in most cases as by no means a term of science or exact knowledge, but a term of poetry and eloquence, a term thrown out, so to speak, as a not fully grasped object of the speaker's consciousness — a literary term, in short; and mankind mean different things by it as their…” quote by Matthew Arnold
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““The word 'God' is used in most cases as by no means a term of science or exact knowledge, but a term of poetry and eloquence, a term thrown out, so to speak, as a not fully grasped object of the speaker's consciousness — a literary term, in short; and mankind mean different things by it as their consciousness differs.””

Matthew Arnold

About This Quote

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

The word “God” functions more as a poetic, subjective concept than a scientific term, reflecting varied personal consciousness.

In simple terms: God is a poetic idea, not a scientific fact.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the symbolic nature of religious language.

Themes

religion language subjectivity poetry consciousness

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • literary analysis
  • theological discussion
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

symbolic meaning interpretation cultural variance

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you see “God” as metaphor or literal?
  • How does poetic language shape belief?
A Different Perspective

Religious terms can be misused to claim factual authority.

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