The pious sectarian is proud because he is confident of…
“The pious sectarian is proud because he is confident of his right of possession in God. The man of devotion is meek because he is conscious of Gods right of love over his life and soul. The object of our possession becomes smaller than ourselves, and without acknowledging it in so many words the bigoted sectarian has an implicit belief that God can be kept secured for certain individuals in a cage which is of their own make. In a similar manner the primitive races of men believe that their ceremonials have a magic influence upon their deities. Sectarianism is a perverse form of worldliness in the disguise of religion; it breeds a narrowness of heart in a greater measure than the cult of the world based upon material interest can ever do. For undisguised pursuit of self has its safety in openness, like filth exposed to the sun and air. But the self-magnification with its consequent lessening of God that goes on unchecked under the cover of sectarianism loses its chance of salvation beca”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Sectarian pride stems from seeing God as property, while true devotion recognizes God's love as larger than any claim.
In simple terms: Pride vs. humility in faith
Key Takeaway
Embrace humility, reject ownership of the divine
Themes
faith
humility
sectarianism
spirituality
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
spiritual
When to use this quote
- religious debate
- interfaith dialogue
- personal reflection
- community building
Key Concepts
Divine ownership
ego
self‑magnification
Questions to Reflect On
- How does seeing God as possession affect compassion?
- Can humility coexist with firm belief?
A Different Perspective
Sectarianism can also foster strong community identity and moral discipline