Atheism Quote by Desiderius Erasmus
“For them it's out-of-date and outmoded to perform miracles; teaching the people is too like hard work, interpreting the holy scriptures is for schoolmen and praying is a waste of time; to shed tears is weak and womanish, to be needy is degrading; to suffer defeat is a disgrace and hardly fitting for one who scarcely permits the greatest of kings to kiss the toes of his sacred feet; and finally, death is an unattractive prospect, and dying on a cross would be an ignominious end.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: Adagia, 1500s (or similar)
Critiques rigid religious practices and the devaluation of emotional expression, urging authenticity.
In simple terms: Questioning outdated rituals and gendered expectations.
Key Takeaway
Seek genuine belief over empty rituals.
Themes
religion
gender
authenticity
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal faith
- social reform
- gender equality
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
humanism
critique of tradition
Questions to Reflect On
- What rituals feel authentic to you?
- How can faith be both personal and communal?
A Different Perspective
May overlook the comfort some find in tradition.
