Altars Quote by Tertullian
“It is not consistent with truth that a man should sacrifice half of his stomach only to God-that he should be sober in drinking, but intemperate in eating. Your belly is your God, your liver is your temple, your paunch is your altar, the cook is your priest, and the fat steam is your Holy Spirit; the seasonings and the sauces are your chrisms, and your belchings are your prophesizing...[such] a grossly- feeding Christian is akin to lions and wolves rather than God. Our Lord Jesus called Himself Truth and not habit.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: De Anima, 2nd century AD
Criticizes religious hypocrisy that values ritual over genuine self‑care, equating gluttony with false worship.
In simple terms: Empty worship is hollow, true devotion is self‑respect.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize health over hollow rituals.
Themes
hypocrisy
religion
self‑care
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
philosophical
satirical
When to use this quote
- daily diet
- religious practice
- personal health
- social gatherings
Key Concepts
ritualism
materialism
spirituality
Questions to Reflect On
- How does indulgence affect your spiritual integrity?
- What rituals truly nourish you?
A Different Perspective
May overlook the role of community and shared meals in spiritual life.
