Bible Quote by Elaine Pagels
“Fundamentalism does mean reading quite conservatively and literally, saying 'the Bible is the word of God and we have to follow it. What it says is this.'”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Gnostic Gospels, 1989
Fundamentalism interprets sacred texts literally, insisting strict adherence to the written word.
In simple terms: Literal reading defines fundamentalist belief.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the limits of literal interpretation.
Themes
religion
interpretation
fundamentalism
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
theological
When to use this quote
- theological debates
- faith communities
- educational curricula
Key Concepts
scripture
literalism
Questions to Reflect On
- How does literal reading affect faith?
- When is metaphor appropriate?
A Different Perspective
Literalism can ignore context and nuance.
![“Even Tacitus admitted that “whatever their origin, [the Jews’] observances are sanctioned by their antiquity,”64 and the Romans respected tradition. Christians, however, had no such excuse.” quote by Elaine Pagels](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/865/elaine-pagels-8423_jews_even-tacitus-admitted-that-whatever-thei_61864.jpg)
![“Augustine reflects that “what made me a slave to it was the habit [consuetudo] of satisfying an insatiable lust.”31” quote by Elaine Pagels](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c77/elaine-pagels-8423_habits_augustine-reflects-that-what-made-me-a-s_240814.jpg)
