When the nature of the thing is incomprehensible, I can…
“When the nature of the thing is incomprehensible, I can acquiesce in the Scripture: but when the signification of words is incomprehensible, I cannot acquiesce in the authority of a Schoolman.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
If language is unclear, one cannot accept the authority of scholars; comprehension is required for genuine acceptance.
In simple terms: Understand words before trusting authority.
Key Takeaway
Seek clarity.
Themes
knowledge
authority
language
Mood
analytical
skeptical
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- education
- religious study
- legal interpretation
- academic discourse
Key Concepts
critical thinking
epistemology
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you verify understanding of complex texts?
- When should you question scholarly authority?
A Different Perspective
Complex language can obscure truth.