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Virtue and vice are both prophets; the first, of certain…

“Virtue and vice are both prophets; the first, of certain good; the second, of pain or else of penitence.” quote by Ralph Venning
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“Virtue and vice are both prophets; the first, of certain good; the second, of pain or else of penitence.”

Ralph Venning

About This Quote

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

Both virtue and vice act as teachers; virtue brings good, vice brings pain or repentance.

In simple terms: Virtue teaches good; vice teaches pain or repentance.

Key Takeaway

Learn from both virtue and vice.

Themes

morality spiritual growth self‑reflection

Mood

solemn thoughtful

Type

religious philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal decision‑making
  • spiritual counseling
  • moral education

Key Concepts

theodicy ethical development

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does suffering guide moral improvement?
  • Can virtue exist without recognizing vice?
A Different Perspective

Focusing on vice can lead to despair.

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