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We do ourselves wrong, and too meanly estimate the…

“We do ourselves wrong, and too meanly estimate the holiness above us, when we deem that any act or enjoyment good in itself, is not good to do religiously.” quote by Nathaniel Hawthorne
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“We do ourselves wrong, and too meanly estimate the holiness above us, when we deem that any act or enjoyment good in itself, is not good to do religiously.”

Nathaniel Hawthorne

About This Quote

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

It warns against judging actions as inherently good without considering religious or moral context, suggesting we often overestimate divine standards.

In simple terms: Good deeds may not be religiously appropriate.

Key Takeaway

Consider moral context beyond personal enjoyment.

Themes

morality religion self‑deception

Mood

reflective philosophical

Type

ethical theological

When to use this quote

  • charitable acts
  • personal hobbies
  • public policy decisions

Key Concepts

ethics theology human nature

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you separate personal pleasure from moral duty?
  • How do you define “good” in a secular world?
A Different Perspective

Religious standards vary, making universal judgments difficult.

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