Able Quote by Epicurus
““Is God willing to prevent evil, but not able? Then he is not omnipotent. Is he able, but not willing? then he is malevolent. Is he both able and willing? Then whence cometh evil? Is he neither able nor willing? Then why call him God?" Epicurus””
About This Quote
Source Dialogue: Letter to Menoeceus, Epicurus, c. 300 BC
The quote questions the logical problem of evil, challenging the compatibility of omnipotence, omnibenevolence, and the existence of evil.
In simple terms: It asks why a god who can prevent evil doesn’t, and why a god who wants to doesn’t exist
Themes
Consider the definitions of power and willingness in theological arguments.
Mood
skeptical
inquisitive
Type
analytical
critical
When to use this quote
- Omnipotence
- omnibenevolence
- logical paradox
Key Concepts
theology
philosophy
problem of evil
Practical Applications
- Philosophical debate
- religious education
- ethical counseling
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “evil” mean in this context?
- Can power be limited by moral choice?
A Different Perspective
The argument assumes a single deity with human-like attributes, ignoring alternative metaphysical views.
