Skip to content

Certain Quote by Herman Melville

“This divineness had that in it which, though commanding worship, at the same time enforced a certain nameless terror.” quote by Herman Melville
Download Open image
“This divineness had that in it which, though commanding worship, at the same time enforced a certain nameless terror.”

Herman Melville

About This Quote

Source Novel: Moby‑Dick, 1851

Divine awe can coexist with an unsettling, nameless terror that demands reverence.

In simple terms: Divine awe includes hidden terror.

Key Takeaway

Respect awe, acknowledge fear.

Themes

spirituality terror reverence

Mood

somber thoughtful

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • religious rituals
  • art appreciation
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

theology existentialism literature

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why does awe provoke fear?
  • Can terror be a part of reverence?
A Different Perspective

Fear may hinder worship.

3.8 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Herman Melville

Explore all 1,010 Herman Melville quotes

More Certain quotes

Browse all 13,673 Certain quotes