Skip to content

Arguing Quote by Salman Rushdie

“My parents gave me the gift of irreligion, of growing up without bothering to ask people what gods they held dear, assuming that in fact, like my parents, they weren't interested in gods, and that this uninterest was 'normal.' You may argue that the gift was a poisoned chalice, but even if so…” quote by Salman Rushdie
Download Open image
“My parents gave me the gift of irreligion, of growing up without bothering to ask people what gods they held dear, assuming that in fact, like my parents, they weren't interested in gods, and that this uninterest was 'normal.' You may argue that the gift was a poisoned chalice, but even if so, that's a cup from which I'd happily drink again.”

Salman Rushdie

About This Quote

Source Interview: The New Yorker, 2015

Growing up without religion can be a liberating yet challenging gift, shaping worldview.

In simple terms: Irreligion is a complex gift.

Key Takeaway

Embrace curiosity over certainty.

Themes

religion freedom identity culture upbringing

Mood

thoughtful introspective

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • education
  • interfaith dialogue
  • family discussions
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

secularism existentialism personal narrative

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does freedom from doctrine enable you?
  • How might you bridge gaps with believers?
A Different Perspective

Irreligion may limit communal bonds.

4.5 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Salman Rushdie

Explore all 1,087 Salman Rushdie quotes

More Arguing quotes

Browse all 1,908 Arguing quotes