Absurd Quote by Blaise Pascal
“If we submit everything to reason our religion will be left with nothing mysterious or supernatural. If we offend the principles of reason our religion will be absurd and ridiculous . . . There are two equally dangerous extremes: to exclude reason, to admit nothing but reason.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: Pensées, 1670
Reason alone cannot fully explain faith; extremes of pure reason or pure mysticism both undermine religion.
In simple terms: Both reason and mystery are needed in religion.
Balance reason with wonder.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal belief
- interfaith dialogue
- ethical decision making
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can reason and mystery coexist?
- What risks arise from rejecting one side?
Pure reason may strip meaning; pure mysticism may become irrational.