Believe Quote by Samuel Johnson
“It is a common error, and the greater and more mischievous for being so common, to believe that repentance best becomes and most concerns dying men. Indeed, what is necessary every hour of our life is necessary in the hour of death too, and as long as one lives he will have need of repentance, and therefore it is necessary in the hour of death too; but he who hath constantly exercised himself in it in his health and vigor, will do it with less pain in his sickness and weakness; and he who hath practiced it all his life, will do it with more ease and less perplexity in the hour of his death.”
About This Quote
Source Literature: The Idler, No. 10, 1759
Repentance is a continual practice, not only for the dying; regular reflection eases it at life's end.
In simple terms: Repentance should be practiced daily to ease death.
Key Takeaway
Practice repentance regularly to lessen fear at death.
Themes
spirituality
mortality
self‑improvement
Mood
contemplative
serene
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- daily meditation
- confessional practice
- end‑of‑life counseling
- spiritual direction
Key Concepts
ethics
habit formation
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- How can daily reflection change your view of mortality?
- What habits help maintain spiritual readiness?
A Different Perspective
If one never cultivates repentance, the effort at death can be overwhelming.
