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Is it not the great end of religion, and, in particular…

“Is it not the great end of religion, and, in particular, the glory of Christianity, to extinguish the malignant passions; to curb the violence, to control the appetites, and to smooth the asperities of man; to make us compassionate and kind, and forgiving one to another; to make us good husbands…” quote by William Wilberforce
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“Is it not the great end of religion, and, in particular, the glory of Christianity, to extinguish the malignant passions; to curb the violence, to control the appetites, and to smooth the asperities of man; to make us compassionate and kind, and forgiving one to another; to make us good husbands, good fathers, good friends; and to render us active and useful in the discharge of the relative social and civil duties?”

William Wilberforce

About This Quote

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

Religion's highest purpose is to tame harmful urges, reduce aggression, and foster compassion, kindness, and social responsibility.

In simple terms: Religion should curb bad habits and promote kindness.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate compassion and civic duty.

Themes

morality religion social responsibility personal development

Mood

hopeful reflective

Type

ethical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • family life
  • community service
  • conflict resolution
  • personal self-control

Key Concepts

virtue ethics civil virtue human flourishing

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we balance religious guidance with individual autonomy?
  • What secular ways can we achieve similar moral outcomes?
A Different Perspective

Religious teachings may clash with secular values or personal freedoms.

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