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Bible Quote by Henry David Thoreau

“There is on the earth no institution which Friendship has established; it is not taught by any religion; no scripture contains itsmaxims. It has no temple, nor even a solitary column. There goes a rumor that the earth is inhabited, but the shipwrecked mariner has not seen a footprint on the shore…” quote by Henry David Thoreau
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“There is on the earth no institution which Friendship has established; it is not taught by any religion; no scripture contains itsmaxims. It has no temple, nor even a solitary column. There goes a rumor that the earth is inhabited, but the shipwrecked mariner has not seen a footprint on the shore. The hunter has found only fragments of pottery and the monuments of inhabitants.”

Henry David Thoreau

About This Quote

Source Book: Walden, Henry David Thoreau, 1854

Friendship exists naturally, not imposed by institutions, religion, or scripture; it is a spontaneous, universal bond.

In simple terms: Friendship is natural, not taught.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate genuine connections.

Themes

friendship universality spontaneity

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • community building
  • personal relationships
  • cross‑cultural interactions

Key Concepts

social bonds human nature

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you recognize authentic friendship?
  • What societal norms challenge natural bonds?
A Different Perspective

Friendship can be hindered by social expectations or cultural barriers.

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