I remember an answer which when quite young I was prompted…
““I remember an answer which when quite young I was prompted to make to a valued adviser who was wont to importune me with the dear old doctrines of the church. On my saying, What have I to do with the sacredness of traditions, if I live wholly from within? my friend suggested--'But these impulses may be from below, not from above.' I replied, 'They do not seem to me to be such; but if I am the devil's child, I will live them from the devil.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote challenges the authority of tradition, urging inner authenticity over external doctrine.
In simple terms: Live by inner truth, not imposed traditions.
Key Takeaway
Trust your inner voice.
Themes
individualism
authenticity
spirituality
Mood
reflective
introspective
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal decision making
- spiritual practice
- ethical dilemmas
Key Concepts
self-reliance
inner guidance
moral autonomy
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you discern inner guidance from cultural conditioning?
- When is tradition a useful guide?
A Different Perspective
May overlook valuable wisdom embedded in tradition.