Alcohol Quote by Eugene H. Peterson
“Classically, there are three ways in which humans try to find transcendence--religious meaning--apart from God as revealed through the cross of Jesus: through the ecstasy of alcohol and drugs, through the ecstasy of recreational sex, through the ecstasy of crowds. Church leaders frequently warn against the drugs and the sex, but at least, in America, almost never against the crowds.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Message of the Psalms, 2001
Humans seek transcendence via three ecstasies: substances, sex, and crowds, with crowds less condemned.
In simple terms: People look for meaning through intense experiences, especially groups.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the limits of seeking meaning in excess.
Themes
spirituality
human nature
social behavior
Mood
contemplative
critical
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- party scenes
- religious gatherings
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
transcendence
ecstasy
religion
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives you to seek meaning in groups?
- How can you find balance?
A Different Perspective
Crowds can also foster conformity and loss of individuality.
![“[As in the case of] alcohol prohibition, illegality has driven organized crime, sent countless people to jail, and killed many thousands. Repression does not work.” quote by Sam Branson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/212/sam-branson-36458_alcohol_as-in-the-case-of-alcohol-prohibition-il_8703.jpg)
