Ancient Quote by Desiderius Erasmus
“Sacred scripture is of course the basic authority for everything; yet I sometimes run across ancient sayings or pagan writings - even the poets - so purely and reverently and admirably expressed that I can't help believing the author's hearts were moved by some divine power. And perhaps the spirit of Christ is more widespread than we understand, and the company of the saints includes many not on our calendar.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: Praise of Folly, 1509
Erasmus suggests that truth can appear in unexpected places, even outside official doctrine, hinting at a universal divine inspiration.
In simple terms: Truth may come from unexpected sources.
Key Takeaway
Stay open to wisdom beyond tradition.
Themes
faith
humility
interfaith
literature
divine inspiration
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
hopeful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- studying ancient texts
- reading poetry
- interfaith dialogue
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
theology
humanism
cultural syncretism
Questions to Reflect On
- What non‑traditional source has shaped your beliefs?
- How do you balance tradition with new insights?
A Different Perspective
Reliance on non‑canonical sources can conflict with established doctrine.
![“...[sacred] doctrine is especially based upon arguments from authority, inasmuch as its principles are obtained by revelation: thus we ought to believe on the authority of those to whom the revelation has been made. Nor does this take away from the dignity of this doctrine, for although the…” quote by Thomas Aquinas](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/129/thomas-aquinas-837_argument_sacred-doctrine-is-especially-based-upon_2279982.jpg)
