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God is love Quote by Joseph Campbell

“Once we have broken free of the prejudices of our own provincially limited ecclesiastical, tribal, or national rendition of the world archetypes, it becomes possible to understand that the supreme initiation is not that of the local motherly fathers, who then project aggression onto the neighbors…” quote by Joseph Campbell
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““Once we have broken free of the prejudices of our own provincially limited ecclesiastical, tribal, or national rendition of the world archetypes, it becomes possible to understand that the supreme initiation is not that of the local motherly fathers, who then project aggression onto the neighbors for their own defense. The good news, which the World Redeemer brings and which so many have been glad to hear, zealous to preach, but reluctant, apparently, to demonstrate, is that God is love, the He can be, and is to be, loved, and that all without exception are his children. Such comparatively trivial matters as the remaining details of the credo, the techniques of worship, and devices of episcopal organization (which have so absorbed the interest of Occidental theologians that they are today seriously discussed as the principal questions of religion), are merely pedantic snares, unless kept ancillary to the major teaching. Indeed, where not so kept, they have the regressive effect: they reduce the father image back again to the dimensions of the totem. And this, of course, is what has happened throughout the Christian world. One would think that we had been called upon to decide or to know whom, of all of us, the Father prefers. Whereas, the teaching is much less flattering: "Judge not, that ye be not judged." The World Savior's cross, in spite of the behavior of its professed priests, is a vastly more democratic symbol than the local flag.””

Joseph Campbell

About This Quote

Source Book: The Hero with a Thousand Faces, 1949

The quote argues that true spiritual understanding transcends narrow cultural and religious biases, emphasizing universal love and equality over dogmatic rituals and hierarchical authority.

In simple terms: Love and equality surpass narrow religious rules.

Key Takeaway

Embrace universal love, reject divisive dogma.

Themes

spirituality equality religion dogma universalism

Mood

reflective hopeful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • interfaith dialogue
  • personal spiritual practice
  • community building
  • religious education

Key Concepts

theology humanism democracy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we practice love beyond institutional boundaries?
  • What structures perpetuate exclusion in faith?
A Different Perspective

Dogmatic focus can reinforce division and hierarchy.

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