America Quote by James Fenimore Cooper
““In America the taint of sectarianism lies broad upon the land. Not content with acknowledging the supremacy as the Deity, and with erecting temples in his honor, where all can bow down with reverence, the pride and vanity of human reason enter into and pollute our worship, and the houses that should be of God and for God, alone, where he is to be honored with submissive faith, are too often merely schools of metaphysical and useless distinctions. The nation is sectarian, rather than Christian. Religion's first lesson is humility; its fruit, charity. In the great and sublime ends of Providence, little things are lost, and least of all is he imbued with a right spirit who believes that insignificant observances, subtleties of doctrine, and minor distinctions, enter into the great essentials of the Christian character. The wisest thing for him who is disposed to cavil at the immaterial habits of his neighbor, to split straws on doctrine, to fancy trifles of importance, and to place the man before principles, would be to distrust himself.””
About This Quote
The passage warns that religious practice in America has become overly intellectualized and sectarian, diverting focus from humility and charity to doctrinal minutiae, and urges self‑skepticism in judging others.
In simple terms: Religion should prioritize humility and charity over doctrinal disputes.
Key Takeaway
Avoid judging others by minor theological differences.
Themes
Sectarianism
Humility
Charity
Dogmatism
Self‑reflection
Mood
Reflective
Cautionary
Type
Philosophical
Moral
When to use this quote
- Interfaith dialogues
- Church governance
- Personal spiritual growth
- Community service
Key Concepts
Religious practice
Human reason
Moral character
Practical Applications
- Promoting inclusive worship
- Encouraging charitable actions
Questions to Reflect On
- How does focusing on minor doctrines affect unity?
- What practices foster humility in religious communities?
A Different Perspective
Some argue that doctrinal clarity is essential for preserving core beliefs, but the quote suggests this can become counterproductive.
![“I'll smoke, I'll cough, I'll get the tumors, I'll die, deal? Thank you America. [salutes]” quote by Bill Hicks](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/3d2/bill-hicks-970_america_i-ll-smoke-i-ll-cough-i-ll-get-the-tumor_655.jpg)
