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Religion Quote by Annie Dillard

“If I did not know about God and sin, would I go to hell?" "No", said the priest, "not if you did not know." "Then why," asked the Eskimo earnestly, "did you tell me?” quote by Annie Dillard
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““If I did not know about God and sin, would I go to hell?" "No", said the priest, "not if you did not know." "Then why," asked the Eskimo earnestly, "did you tell me?””

Annie Dillard

About This Quote

Source Essay: “The Living” in The Writing Life, 1989

The dialogue questions that knowledge of sin and divine judgment is necessary for moral accountability.

In simple terms: Knowing about sin is linked to responsibility for afterlife fate.

Key Takeaway

Consider how awareness shapes moral choices.

Themes

theology ethics knowledge

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical theological

When to use this quote

  • religious teaching
  • personal belief
  • ethical decision‑making

Key Concepts

free will moral responsibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • Does ignorance excuse wrongdoing?
  • How does belief influence behavior?
A Different Perspective

Ignorance may not absolve moral duty.

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