Children Quote by Robert G. Ingersoll
““I have heard them preach, when I sat in the pew and my feet did not touch the floor, about the final home of the unconverted. In order to impress upon the children the length of time they would probably stay if they settled in that country, the preacher would frequently give us the following illustration: 'Suppose that once in a billion years a bird should come from some far-distant planet, and carry off in its little bill a grain of sand, a time would finally come when the last atom composing this earth would be carried away; and when this last atom was taken, it would not even be sun up in hell.' Think of such an infamous doctrine being taught to children!””
About This Quote
The passage satirically describes a preacher’s absurd illustration that the universe will end when a bird steals a grain of sand, mocking doctrines that frighten children with eternal punishment.
In simple terms: A ridiculous cosmic ending used to scare kids about hell.
Key Takeaway
Exaggerated fear tactics distort moral teaching.
Themes
religion
education
skepticism
humor
dogma
Mood
irony
skepticism
Type
satire
philosophical critique
When to use this quote
- Sunday school lessons
- Fundamentalist sermons
- Moral instruction to children
Key Concepts
use of absurdity to critique authority
psychology of fear in belief systems
Practical Applications
- Replace fear‑based teachings with rational ethics
- Encourage critical questioning of doctrine
Questions to Reflect On
- How effective is fear in shaping lasting values?
- Can humor replace authority in moral education?
A Different Perspective
Some argue that vivid imagery can motivate moral behavior, even if exaggerated.
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