To forego the pleasures of sense, and undergo the…
“To forego the pleasures of sense, and undergo the hardships that attend a holy life, is such a kind of mercenariness as none but a resigned believing soul is likely to be guilty of; if fear itself, and even the fear of hell, may be one justifiable motive of mens actions.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Renouncing sensory pleasures and enduring hardships can be seen as mercenary unless motivated by fear or belief in an afterlife.
In simple terms: Hardship may be justified by fear or faith.
Key Takeaway
Examine motives for sacrifice.
Themes
religion
ethics
psychology
Mood
contemplative
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- monastic life
- ethical decisions
- risk assessment
Key Concepts
asceticism
fear motivation
moral justification
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives your willingness to suffer?
- Is fear a healthy guide?
A Different Perspective
Motivation may be coercive rather than authentic.