Parenting Quote by David Ebershoff
““I suppose my greatest disappointment has been realizing my father, like Joseph and Brigham before him, tried to shroud his passions in the mantle of religion. He used God to defend his adultery. --- Ann Eliza Young, page 253””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Book of Mormon: A Novel, 2013
The quote critiques using religion to mask personal failings, highlighting hypocrisy when faith is weaponized.
In simple terms: Religion can hide personal wrongdoing.
Key Takeaway
Seek integrity over appearances.
Themes
hypocrisy
faith
morality
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- family counseling
- theological study
- social activism
- literary analysis
- historical research
Key Concepts
religious authority
personal accountability
family dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How do personal motives shape religious expression?
- Can faith be a force for genuine moral behavior?
A Different Perspective
May generalize all religious people as hypocritical.
![“How great indeed is our debt to [Joseph Smith]. His life began in Vermont and ended in Illinois, and marvelous were the things that happened between that simple beginning and that tragic ending. It was he who brought us a true knowledge of God the Eternal Father and His Risen Son, the Lord Jesus…” quote by Gordon B. Hinckley](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/76a/gordon-b-hinckley-331_knowledge-of-god_how-great-indeed-is-our-debt-to-joseph-s_2410863.jpg)
