Pressed by the irresistible weight of these arguments many…
““Pressed by the irresistible weight of these arguments many take refuge in ambiguous and evasive phrases, e.g., "Be sure God will do the best He can for every man." Ambiguous and evasive words, I repeat, as used by the advocates of endless torment and evil. For if they really mean that the best an Almighty Being can do for countless myriads of His children is to bestow on them, -practically to force on them -whether they will or not, an existence, stained with sin from the womb, knowing that in fact this sin will ripen into endless misery -then such phrases as the .above are but so much dust thrown in our eyes, they are as .argument beneath refutation. And if they do not mean this, such pleas are worthless as a defense of the ordinary creed. If endless misery is the certain result, known and foreseen, of calling me into existence, then to force on mc the gift of life, is to do for me not the best, but the worst possible.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The author argues that vague theological assurances mask the harsh reality of existence, questioning the moral justification of divine will.
In simple terms: Vague faith claims hide the suffering caused by existence.
Key Takeaway
Critically examine comforting but ambiguous beliefs.
Themes
theology
ethics
existentialism
Mood
critical
thought‑provoking
Type
philosophical
theological
When to use this quote
- personal crises
- philosophical debates
- ethical counseling
Key Concepts
free will
divine benevolence
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you find comfort in ambiguous faith?
- How do you reconcile suffering with belief in a higher power?
A Different Perspective
Such arguments can be dismissed as overly pessimistic.