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Surely you're not saying that God had to choose between…

“Surely you're not saying that God had to choose between long life and intelligence for human beings! It's there in your own Bible, Carlotta. Two trees - knowledge and life. You eat of the tree of knowledge and you will surely die. You eat of the tree of life and you remain a child in the garden…” quote by Orson Scott Card
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“Surely you're not saying that God had to choose between long life and intelligence for human beings! It's there in your own Bible, Carlotta. Two trees - knowledge and life. You eat of the tree of knowledge and you will surely die. You eat of the tree of life and you remain a child in the garden forever, undying.”

Orson Scott Card

About This Quote

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

Contrasting the biblical symbols of knowledge and life, questioning their trade‑offs.

In simple terms: Choosing knowledge may cost life; life preserves innocence.

Key Takeaway

Balance wisdom with well‑being.

Themes

faith choice mortality

Mood

contemplative serious

Type

philosophical theological

When to use this quote

  • education decisions
  • career decisions
  • personal growth

Key Concepts

theology symbolism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “knowledge” truly cost you?
  • Can you have both wisdom and vitality?
A Different Perspective

May oversimplify complex theological debates.

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