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The clergy, by getting themselves established by law and…

“The clergy, by getting themselves established by law and in-grafted into the machine of government, have been a very formidable engine against the civil and religious rights of man.” quote by Thomas Jefferson
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“The clergy, by getting themselves established by law and in-grafted into the machine of government, have been a very formidable engine against the civil and religious rights of man.”

Thomas Jefferson

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

When clergy merge with government, they become a powerful barrier to civil and religious freedoms.

In simple terms: Church‑state entanglement blocks rights.

Key Takeaway

Uphold separation of church and state.

Themes

freedom government religion rights

Mood

philosophical political

Type

analytical historical

When to use this quote

  • legal reforms
  • public education
  • advocacy campaigns

Key Concepts

secularism civil liberties institutional power

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does separation protect individual liberty?
  • What are the limits of governmental authority over religion?
A Different Perspective

May understate benefits of religious community involvement.

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