Better Quote by Robert Green Ingersoll
“A prayer that must have a cannon behind it better never be uttered. Forgiveness ought not to go in partnership with shot and shell. Love need not carry knives and revolvers.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Public Lecture, 1885, United States
Violence undermines true forgiveness and love, which should be pure and non‑aggressive.
In simple terms: Violence contradicts forgiveness and love.
Key Takeaway
Choose peace over aggression.
Themes
peace
forgiveness
love
nonviolence
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- conflict resolution
- social activism
Key Concepts
ethical philosophy
humanism
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we practice forgiveness without enabling harm?
- What alternatives exist to violent retaliation?
A Different Perspective
Peaceful resolution may still require confronting injustice.
