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Absurd Quote by Noah Webster

“To suppose that man without language taught himself to speak, seems to me as absurd as it would be to suppose that without legs he could teach himself to walk. Language, therefore, must have been the immediate gift of God.” quote by Noah Webster
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“To suppose that man without language taught himself to speak, seems to me as absurd as it would be to suppose that without legs he could teach himself to walk. Language, therefore, must have been the immediate gift of God.”

Noah Webster

About This Quote

Source Book: The American Dictionary of the English Language, 1828

Language is a divine gift, not self‑taught; humanity could not develop speech without it.

In simple terms: Language is God‑given, not learned alone.

Key Takeaway

Recognize language as a fundamental, shared tool.

Themes

language divine origin human nature

Mood

thoughtful reflective

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • education
  • communication
  • cultural development

Key Concepts

theology linguistics evolution

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does language shape identity?
  • What would a world without language look like?
A Different Perspective

Assumes a deity; secular perspectives differ.

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