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Bible Quote by Robert Green Ingersoll

“Man must learn to rely upon himself. Reading bibles will not protect him from the blasts of winter, but houses, fires. and clothing will. To prevent famine, one plow is worth a million sermons, and even patent medicines will cure more diseases than all the prayers uttered since the beginning of…” quote by Robert Green Ingersoll
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“Man must learn to rely upon himself. Reading bibles will not protect him from the blasts of winter, but houses, fires. and clothing will. To prevent famine, one plow is worth a million sermons, and even patent medicines will cure more diseases than all the prayers uttered since the beginning of the world.”

Robert Green Ingersoll

About This Quote

Source Speech: Lecture on Self-Reliance, 1885

Self-reliance and practical preparation matter more than religious rituals for survival and health.

In simple terms: Practical skills beat prayers.

Key Takeaway

Focus on tangible actions.

Themes

self-reliance pragmatism survival skepticism

Mood

determined pragmatic skeptical

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • building shelter
  • growing food
  • maintaining health
  • preventing famine
  • seeking medical care

Key Concepts

humanism secular ethics practicality

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you balance practical preparation with spiritual needs?
  • What practical skill could you learn today?
A Different Perspective

Religious faith may still provide community support.

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