Accurate Quote by Martin Gardner
“Let the Bible be the Bible. It's not about science. It's not accurate history. It is a grab bag of religious fantasies written by many authors. Some of its myths, like the Star of Bethlehem, are very beautiful. Others are dull and ugly. Some express lofty ideals, such as the parables of Jesus. Others are morally disgusting.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Annotated Alice, 1990
The quote critiques the Bible as a mixed collection of myths, moral lessons, and fantasies, separating it from scientific or historical truth.
In simple terms: The Bible mixes myth, moral stories, and fantasy, not science or history.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the Bible’s literary nature, not literal truth.
Themes
religion
myth
literature
morality
history
science
Mood
critical
thoughtful
analytical
Type
critical
analytical
interpretive
When to use this quote
- academic study
- interfaith dialogue
- personal reflection
- teaching literature
- media analysis
Key Concepts
mythology
ethical criticism
interpretation
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you differentiate myth from moral teaching?
- Can a text be both beautiful and morally problematic?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook the Bible’s cultural and spiritual influence for many.
![“He [Groucho's father] had absolutely no training, and if you had ever seen one of his suits, you'd realize what an accurate statement that is. You see, Pop never used a tape measure. He didn't believe in it. He said he could just look at a man and tell hi.” quote by Groucho Marx](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/02f/groucho-marx-788_accurate_he-groucho-s-father-had-absolutely-no-tr_22161.jpg)
