Abraham Quote by Thomas Jefferson
“The office of reformer of the superstitions of a nation, is ever more dangerous. Jesus had to work on the perilous confines of reason and religion; and a step to the right or left might place him within the grasp of the priests of the superstition, a bloodthirsty race, as cruel and remorseless as the being whom they represented as the family God of Abraham, of Isaac and of Jacob, and the local God of Israel. That Jesus did not mean to impose himself on mankind as the son of God, physically speaking, I have been convinced by the writings of men more learned than myself in that lore.”
About This Quote
Reforming entrenched superstitions is perilous; challenging authority risks violent backlash from those defending tradition.
In simple terms: Changing deep beliefs is dangerous and may provoke violence.
Key Takeaway
Proceed carefully, anticipate resistance.
Themes
religion
reform
danger
authority
violence
Mood
cautious
serious
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political activism
- religious debate
- social reform
Key Concepts
dogma
social change
risk
power dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can reformers protect themselves?
- When is compromise possible?
A Different Perspective
Reform can incite severe opposition.
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