As to the ancient historians, from Herodotus to Tacitus…
““As to the ancient historians, from Herodotus to Tacitus , we credit them as far as they relate things probable and credible, and no further: for if we do, we must believe the two miracles which Tacitus relates were performed by Vespasian, that of curing a lame man, and a blind man, in just the same manner as the same things are told of Jesus Christ by his historians. We must also believe the miracles cited by Josephus , that of the sea of Pamphilia opening to let Alexander and his army pass, as is related of the Red Sea in Exodus. These miracles are quite as well authenticated as the Bible miracles, and yet we do not believe them; consequently the degree of evidence necessary to establish our belief of things naturally incredible, whether in the Bible or elsewhere, is far greater than that which obtains our belief to natural and probable things.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Historical accounts of miracles are accepted only when they align with prior beliefs; extraordinary claims demand stronger evidence.
In simple terms: We trust what fits our expectations; extraordinary claims need strong proof.
Key Takeaway
Demand rigorous evidence for extraordinary claims.
Themes
skepticism
evidence
history
belief
critical thinking
Mood
analytical
thought‑provoking
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- religious debate
- scientific inquiry
- legal standards
- media literacy
Key Concepts
epistemology
historical methodology
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you assess the credibility of historical reports?
- What standards should govern belief in extraordinary events?
A Different Perspective
Dismissal of miracles may overlook genuine phenomena.