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Against religion Quote by Thomas Jefferson

“The hocus-pocus phantasm of a God, like another Cerberus, with one body and three heads, had its birth and growth in the blood of thousands and thousands of martyrs.” quote by Thomas Jefferson
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“The hocus-pocus phantasm of a God, like another Cerberus, with one body and three heads, had its birth and growth in the blood of thousands and thousands of martyrs.”

Thomas Jefferson

About This Quote

Source Letter: Private correspondence, 1803

Divine power is portrayed as a monstrous, multi‑headed entity fed by the blood of martyrs.

In simple terms: God is depicted as a terrifying, many‑headed monster sustained by martyrdom.

Key Takeaway

Question blind authority.

Themes

religion myth martyrdom

Mood

critical reflective

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • historical analysis
  • religious debate
  • literary criticism
  • ethical reflection

Key Concepts

theology symbolism political critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does this image say about power and sacrifice?
  • How does martyrdom shape belief systems?
A Different Perspective

Interpretation may vary; some see metaphor, others literal.

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