Belief Quote by Libba Bray
““Why does anyone do anything? Belief. A belief that they are right and just in their actions. Abraham was willing to sacrifice his son, Isaac, because he believed that God had commanded it. To kill your son is unthinkable. A crime. But if you are acting in the belief that your God, your supreme deity whom you must obey, has demanded it of you, is it still a crime?” “Yes,” Will said. Dr. Poblocki smiled. “I know you do not believe, Will. But imagine for a moment that you believe fervently that this is truth. In this framework, your actions are justified. Glorified, even. They are inculpatus—without blame.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Secret History of the World by Libba Bray, 2023
The quote explores how deep belief can justify extreme actions, even those considered immoral, by framing them as divine commands.
In simple terms: Belief can make any act seem justified.
Key Takeaway
Question your own convictions.
Themes
morality
faith
justification
Mood
conflicted
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- religious extremism
- personal decision making
- legal judgments
Key Concepts
psychology
religion
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- What limits should be placed on actions claimed as divinely mandated?
- How do societies differentiate between faith and fanaticism?
A Different Perspective
Belief may blind one to ethical consequences.
