Skip to content

Miracles Quote by Ivan Turgenev

“Whatever a man prays for, he prays for a miracle. Every prayer reduces itself to this: Great God, grant that twice two be not four.” quote by Ivan Turgenev
Download Open image
““Whatever a man prays for, he prays for a miracle. Every prayer reduces itself to this: Great God, grant that twice two be not four.””

Ivan Turgenev

About This Quote

Source Book: Fathers and Sons by Ivan Turgenev, 1862

Prayer is a request for an impossible miracle, highlighting the absurdity of demanding the impossible from a deity.

In simple terms: Praying for impossible things is absurd.

Key Takeaway

Recognize realistic limits in wishes.

Themes

faith miracles absurdity

Mood

reflective skeptical

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • personal prayer
  • religious discourse
  • philosophical debate

Key Concepts

theology logic paradox

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you ever ask for impossible outcomes?
  • How does this view affect your spirituality?
A Different Perspective

Belief in miracles can clash with rational expectations.

3.5 out of 5 (3 ratings)

More by Ivan Turgenev

Explore all 146 Ivan Turgenev quotes

More Miracles quotes

Browse all 3,571 Miracles quotes