Art Quote by Henry David Thoreau
“I would that our farmers when they cut down a forest felt some of that awe which the old Romans did when they came to thin, or letin the light to, a consecrated grove (lucum conlucare), that is, would believe that it is sacred to some god. The Roman made an expiatory offering, and prayed, Whatever god or goddess thou art to whom this grove is sacred, be propitious to me, my family, and children, etc.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Walden, Henry David Thoreau, 1854
Thoreau urges respect for nature, urging people to treat forests as sacred spaces like ancient Romans did.
In simple terms: Treat forests as sacred.
Key Takeaway
Honor nature, pray for its protection.
Themes
environment
spirituality
respect
conservation
Mood
reflective
reverent
Type
ethical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- forest management
- urban planning
- environmental education
- personal meditation
Key Concepts
sacredness
ritual
eco‑ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we restore a sense of sacredness to everyday natural spaces?
- What rituals could modern people adopt to honor the environment?
A Different Perspective
Modern society often sees nature as a resource, not a sanctuary.
![“I think it would be worth the while to introduce a school of children to such [an oak grove], that they may get an idea of the primitive oaks before they are all gone, instead of hiring botanists to lecture to them when it is too late.” quote by Henry David Thoreau](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bfc/henry-david-thoreau-20_children_i-think-it-would-be-worth-the-while-to-i_2840560.jpg)
