Prophetic Ejaculation Quote by Edmund Burke
““I find a preacher of the Gospel profaning the beautiful and prophetic ejaculation, commonly called “Nunc dimittis,” made on the first presentation of our Saviour in the temple, and applying it, with an inhuman and unnatural rapture, to the most horrid, atrocious, and afflicting spectacle that perhaps ever was exhibited to the pity and indignation of mankind. This “leading in triumph,” a thing in its best form unmanly and irreligious, which fills our preacher with such unhallowed transports, must shock, I believe, the moral taste of every well-born mind. Several English were the stupefied and indignant spectators of that triumph. It was (unless we have been strangely deceived) a spectacle more resembling a procession of American savages entering into Onondaga after some of their murders called victories,””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Parliamentary Debate, Edmund Burke, 1775
A preacher’s exaggerated, violent celebration of a biblical event distorts sacred meaning and offends moral sensibilities.
In simple terms: Overblown religious rhetoric can corrupt and shock.
Key Takeaway
Respect humility in sacred expressions.
Themes
religion
ethics
politics
art
censorship
Mood
critical
cautious
Type
political
theological
When to use this quote
- church services
- public speeches
- media commentary
- artistic performances
Key Concepts
Sacred rhetoric
moral outrage
cultural sensitivity
propaganda
Questions to Reflect On
- When does fervor become disrespectful?
- How can sacred texts be honored without sensationalism?
A Different Perspective
Excessive zeal may alienate believers and non‑believers alike.
