Jonathan Edwards, the dear old soul, who, if his doctrine…
““Jonathan Edwards, the dear old soul, who, if his doctrine is true, is now in heaven rubbing his holy hands with glee, as he hears the cries of the damned, preached this doctrine; and he said: 'Can the believing husband in heaven be happy with his unbelieving wife in hell? Can the believing father in heaven be happy with his unbelieving children in hell? Can the loving wife in heaven be happy with her unbelieving husband in hell?' And he replies: 'I tell you, yea. Such will be their sense of justice, that it will increase rather than diminish their bliss.' There is no wild beast in the jungles of Africa whose reputation would not be tarnished by the expression of such a doctrine. These doctrines have been taught in the name of religion, in the name of universal forgiveness, in the name of infinite love and charity.””
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 critiques a doctrine that suggests believers in heaven would find joy in the suffering of unbelievers, exposing a harsh, punitive view of divine justice that contradicts universal love.
In simple terms: It questions the morality of finding happiness in others' torment.
Key Takeaway
Beware of doctrines that justify suffering as joy.
Themes
theology
justice
morality
afterlife
religion
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
controversial
When to use this quote
- Debates on afterlife
- religious teachings
- ethical discussions
- interfaith dialogues
Key Concepts
Divine justice
punitive theology
universal love
ethical paradox
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this doctrine affect empathy?
- Can justice exist without suffering?
A Different Perspective
Such views can foster cruelty and undermine compassion.