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But how conceive a God supremely good/ Who heaps his…

“But how conceive a God supremely good/ Who heaps his favours on the sons he loves,/ Yet scatters evil with as large a hand? [Written after an earthquake in Lisbon killed over 15,000 people]” quote by Voltaire
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““But how conceive a God supremely good/ Who heaps his favours on the sons he loves,/ Yet scatters evil with as large a hand? [Written after an earthquake in Lisbon killed over 15,000 people]””

Voltaire

About This Quote

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

The author questions how an all‑good deity can allow massive suffering.

In simple terms: Why does a good God allow evil?

Key Takeaway

Consider the problem of evil in theology.

Themes

theology philosophy suffering

Mood

thoughtful skeptical

Type

philosophical inquiry

When to use this quote

  • religious debate
  • ethical discussions
  • personal crisis

Key Concepts

theodicy divine justice human tragedy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What alternative explanations exist for suffering?
A Different Perspective

Does the quote assume a specific religious framework?

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