I have now gone through the examination of the four books…
““I have now gone through the examination of the four books ascribed to Matthew, Mark, Luke and John; and when it is considered that the whole space of time, from the crucifixion to what is called the ascension, is but a few days, apparently not more than three or four, and that all the circumstances are reported to have happened nearly about the same spot, Jerusalem, it is, I believe, impossible to find in any story upon record so many and such glaring absurdities, contradictions, and falsehoods, as are in those books . They are more numerous and striking than I had any expectation of finding, when I began this examination, and far more so than I had any idea of when I wrote the former part of 'The Age of Reason.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Questioning religious texts reveals contradictions, prompting critical thinking about faith and history.
In simple terms: Criticizing biblical inconsistencies.
Key Takeaway
Question assumptions.
Themes
skepticism
religion
history
Mood
thoughtful
skeptical
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- personal belief
- interfaith dialogue
- educational curricula
Key Concepts
Critical inquiry
historical analysis
Questions to Reflect On
- How do contradictions affect belief?
- Can faith coexist with critical analysis?
A Different Perspective
Faith traditions may resist critique.