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Attributes Quote by Agatha Christie

“There is too much tendency to attribute to God the evils that man does of his own free will. I must concede you the Devil. God doesn't really need to punish us, Miss Barton. We're so busy punishing ourselves.” quote by Agatha Christie
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“There is too much tendency to attribute to God the evils that man does of his own free will. I must concede you the Devil. God doesn't really need to punish us, Miss Barton. We're so busy punishing ourselves.”

Agatha Christie

About This Quote

Source Novel: Murder on the Orient Express, 1934

The speaker suggests that human guilt and self‑punishment are more powerful than divine retribution.

In simple terms: Human guilt outweighs divine punishment.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and address personal responsibility.

Themes

guilt psychology morality

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

literary psychological

When to use this quote

  • legal trials
  • personal therapy
  • ethical counseling

Key Concepts

self‑punishment human agency

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we balance self‑judgment with external accountability?
  • What role does belief in a higher power play in personal guilt?
A Different Perspective

Divine concepts may still influence behavior.

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