Appearance Quote by Elizabeth Jane Coatsworth
“Governments may change, and opinions, and the very appearance of lands themselves, but the slowest thing to change is religion. What has once been associated with worship becomes holy in itself, and self-perpetuating, always built upon the foundation of mingled awe and attraction which the unknown has for the mind of man.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Book of the Unknown by Elizabeth Jane Coatsworth, 1998
Religion evolves slowly, persisting beyond political and geographic shifts, rooted in deep human awe for the mysterious.
In simple terms: Religion changes very slowly.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the enduring power of belief.
Themes
faith
culture
change
history
psychology
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
observational
When to use this quote
- political upheaval
- cultural integration
- personal spiritual crises
Key Concepts
institutional inertia
symbolic meaning
collective memory
Questions to Reflect On
- How does awe shape religious persistence?
- What can shift deeply held beliefs?
A Different Perspective
Religious change can be hindered by entrenched traditions.
