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Whenever we read the obscene stories, the voluptuous…

“Whenever we read the obscene stories, the voluptuous debaucheries, the cruel and torturous executions, the unrelenting vindictiveness with which more than half the Bible is filled, it would be more consistent that we called it the word of a demon than the word of God. It is a history of…” quote by Thomas Paine
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““Whenever we read the obscene stories, the voluptuous debaucheries, the cruel and torturous executions, the unrelenting vindictiveness with which more than half the Bible is filled, it would be more consistent that we called it the word of a demon than the word of God. It is a history of wickedness, that has served to corrupt and brutalize mankind; and, for my own part, I sincerely detest it, as I detest everything that is cruel.””

Thomas Paine

About This Quote

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

Critique of biblical violence and cruelty, suggesting it reflects demonic influence rather than divine.

In simple terms: The Bible contains many harsh, violent passages.

Key Takeaway

Question the moral authority of sacred texts.

Themes

religion violence morality

Mood

critical skeptical

Type

theological philosophical

When to use this quote

  • religious study
  • ethical debates
  • literary analysis
  • personal belief systems

Key Concepts

theology criticism historical context

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do violent texts diminish a religion's moral credibility?
  • How should believers reconcile faith with such passages?
A Different Perspective

Interpretations vary; many find spiritual value despite harsh content.

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