Better to be always in a minority of one with God…
“Better to be always in a minority of one with God - branded as madman, incendiary, fanatic, heretic, infidel - frowned upon by "the powers that be," and mobbed by the populace - or consigned ignominiously to the gallows, like him whose "soul is marching on," though his "body lies mouldering in the grave," or burnt to ashes at the stake like Wickliffe, or nailed to the cross like him who "gave himself for the world," - in defence of the RIGHT, than like Herod, having the shouts of a multitude crying, "It is the voice of a god, and not of a man!"”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Standing alone for truth can lead to persecution, but moral conviction outweighs fear of societal rejection.
In simple terms: Being true to convictions may bring suffering, yet it affirms righteousness.
Key Takeaway
Choose principle over popularity.
Themes
courage
justice
conviction
persecution
martyrdom
Mood
defiant
somber
inspirational
Type
historical
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- Abolitionist activism
- whistleblowing
- civil rights protests
- religious reform
- political dissent
Key Concepts
Moral absolutism
civil disobedience
ethical integrity
Questions to Reflect On
- What cause would you uphold despite ridicule?
- How can societies protect dissenting voices?
A Different Perspective
Such isolation can cause personal loss and alienation.