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Catholic Quote by Pope Clement XIII

“...diabolical error, when it has artfully colored its lies, easily clothes itself in the likeness of truth while very brief additions or changes corrupt the meaning of expressions; and confession, which usually works salvation, sometimes, with a slight change, inches toward death.” quote by Pope Clement XIII
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“...diabolical error, when it has artfully colored its lies, easily clothes itself in the likeness of truth while very brief additions or changes corrupt the meaning of expressions; and confession, which usually works salvation, sometimes, with a slight change, inches toward death.”

Pope Clement XIII

About This Quote

Source Treat: The Enchiridion of Pope Clement XIII, 1769

Deceptive language can masquerade as truth, and minor alterations can turn a salvific confession into a deadly one.

In simple terms: Lies can look like truth; small changes can corrupt meaning.

Key Takeaway

Beware subtle distortions in communication.

Themes

truth deception language ethics

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • political speeches
  • legal testimony
  • personal confessions
  • media reporting

Key Concepts

philosophy theology rhetoric

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you verify the authenticity of a statement?
  • What safeguards can prevent minor changes from causing major harm?
A Different Perspective

Even small edits may be unnoticed, allowing harmful ideas to spread.

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