Skip to content

Charybdis Quote by John Henry Newman

“This is what the Church is said to want, not party men, but sensible, temperate, sober, well-judging persons, to guide it through the channel of no-meaning, between the Scylla and Charybdis of Aye and no.” quote by John Henry Newman
Download Open image
“This is what the Church is said to want, not party men, but sensible, temperate, sober, well-judging persons, to guide it through the channel of no-meaning, between the Scylla and Charybdis of Aye and no.”

John Henry Newman

About This Quote

Source Treatise: The Idea of a Church, 1845

The Church should be led by sober, judicious individuals who navigate between extremes, avoiding both fanaticism and indecision.

In simple terms: The Church needs sensible, balanced leaders.

Key Takeaway

Promote moderation and wise leadership.

Themes

religion leadership balance moderation

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

theological philosophical

When to use this quote

  • church governance
  • ethical decision-making
  • community building

Key Concepts

sober judgment ethical guidance middle path

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can leaders stay moderate under pressure?
  • What qualities define a "sensible" guide?
A Different Perspective

Balancing extremes may be idealistic in practice.

4.4 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by John Henry Newman

Explore all 168 John Henry Newman quotes

More Charybdis quotes

Browse all 10 Charybdis quotes